Feeding your dog certain foods could actually be putting them in danger, according to research.
The study, conducted by dog-friendly holiday lettings company Canine Cottages, found that nearly three in 10 dog owners have previously fed their pet something toxic.
Identifying ten potentially dangerous foods to feed your dog - from chocolate the grapes - researchers analysed just how many pet owners were aware of the risks some products post.
The research polled dog owners across the nation to find out if they were clued up.
Data revealed the products that participants did and did not know were toxic as well as finding out just how many had fed potentially dangerous foods to their pup previously.
According to the research, of the most common toxic foods, the top 10 that British pet owners didn’t know can be toxic to their dogs are:
- Apple seeds (76 per cent)
- Artificial sweetener (75 per cent)
- Caffeine (70 per cent)
- Onions/chives (70 per cent)
- Coffee (69 per cent)
- Garlic (65 per cent)
- Grapes/raisins (63 per cent)
- Mouldy food (62 per cent)
- Alcohol (55 per cent)
- Chocolate (38 per cent)
A further 2 per cent of dog owners didn’t think that any of these foods were toxic to their pets!
If you think your dog has eaten something that could cause harm, the best thing to do is get in touch with the vet as soon as possible.
Dr Charley Webb, Vet and Nutritionist at VetChef.com offered her advice and said: "If you think your pet has eaten something that might be dangerous to them, stay calm and try not to panic.
"The best course of action is always to call the vet for advice right away, even if it’s the middle of the night or a weekend.
"Most pets recover fully if treated rapidly so it’s important to tell your vet as soon as you know that it has happened, as this can prevent them from causing serious harm and in some cases could save their lives."
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here .
