Why is salt the problem?
Dogs naturally eat little or no salt, and our own food, like pizza and crisps, contains far too much for them. A large amount of salt can cause salt poisoning, which can lead to a (temporary) loss of consciousness and in some cases to death.
That is also why making a dog vomit by putting salt on its tongue is strongly discouraged.
Has your dog eaten pizza with onion or garlic on it, or a lot of pizza? Call your vet.
Pizza ingredients to keep away from your dog
Apart from the salt, these ingredients are bad for dogs.
Salt
Far too much for dogs in a pizza. A large amount can cause salt poisoning.
Cheese
High in salt and lactose, which dogs digest badly. It can cause stomach cramps, nausea and diarrhoea.
Onion
Can damage the red blood cells, which can lead to anaemia: dizziness, pale gums and cold legs.
Garlic
Can damage the red blood cells, just like onion, chives and leek.
Tomato
Contains tomatine, which is toxic for dogs. Tomato belongs to the nightshade family.
Mushrooms
Some kinds are poisonous to dogs and cause intestinal cramps and nausea.
Peppers
Some dogs are allergic to peppers. They often get severe itching.
Spinach
Contains oxalates, which in large amounts are harmful to the kidneys.
What else should dogs not eat?
Pizza is not the only food to keep away from your dog. Other foods that are bad or dangerous for dogs include:
- Chocolate: contains theobromine, which is very toxic to dogs. A few grams can be enough to be fatal.
- Grapes and raisins: can cause lasting damage to the kidneys.
- Xylitol and other sweeteners, also in toothpaste and chewing gum: can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar.
- Avocado: contains persin, which is toxic to dogs.
- Macadamia nuts and walnuts: can make a dog very sick, with weak legs, vomiting and a high temperature.
- Raw pork: can carry the Aujeszky virus (pseudorabies), which is fatal to dogs.
- Caffeine and alcohol: even a small amount is dangerous. The smaller the dog, the bigger the risk.
- Painkillers for people, such as paracetamol: can be very toxic to dogs.
Not sure whether something is safe for your dog? Ask your vet.