photo: Transguyjay on Flickr
Tomato Plants
Tomato plants are distantly related to potato plants and they can cause some of the same problems for dogs. Again, the ripe fruit of the tomato plant is fine for dogs and for humans, but the stems and leaves, even the unripe fruit are bad for dogs to eat and are sure to cause gastrointestinal upset, especially if the dog eats quite a bit.
The biggest risk will tend to be in the garden, of course, but be watchful of fresh tomatoes sold ‘on the vine’.
photo: tOrange.biz Valdemar Fisherman on Flickr
Currants
All sorts of currants are toxic to dogs, but in the same way that grapes (and raisins) are. Some dogs are very resistant to the toxin in currants, while others can suffer renal failure with a relatively mild dose. Just don’t risk your dog’s health!
The symptoms of currant toxicity are often delayed in their onset, not sudden. Dogs who are affected will sometimes be prone to vomiting and diarrhea. See a vet if your dog has been exposed, especially if it is showing symptoms.
photo: Karl Sullivan on Flickr
10. Rhubarb
Rhubarb in pies, cobblers, or even a bit eaten raw can be fine for people, but beware of letting your dog nibble any. Due to its strong, astringent taste, it’s unusual for dogs to take a fancy to it, but in enough quantity it can be harmful to dogs.
Rhubarb contains a crystallized chemical called oxalate. This can bind with calcium in the body and if a small dog consumes too much, this can trigger a dangerous drop in calcium levels. Symptoms can include drooling, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, tremors, and even blood in the urine!
Relative to some of the other items on this list, rhubarb is rarely fatal to dogs, but play it safe and keep it away from your pooch.
The best general advice is to monitor what your dog takes in and never assume that food that’s okay for humans will be safe for a dog to eat.
