Common Causes of Dog Poisoning

Some of the most common risks include:

• Pesticides and herbicides – substances like carbofuran are highly toxic to dogs

• Contaminated standing water, especially in agricultural or treated areas

• Rodenticides and other household or garden chemicals

• Toxic foods such as chocolate, grapes, xylitol, or onions

Dogs are curious, and it doesn’t take much for them to get into something dangerous.

How to Spot the Signs Early

Symptoms of poisoning can come on suddenly or gradually. Watch for:

• Vomiting or diarrhea (sometimes with blood)

• Drooling, foaming at the mouth

• Tremors, twitching, seizures

• Weakness or collapse

• Pale gums, shallow or labored breathing

• Unusual behavior: restlessness, confusion, or extreme lethargy

Even one of these signs can be serious. If your dog seems “off”, don’t wait.

What You Can Do Immediately

1. Get your dog away from the source

2. Note what they may have ingested or take a sample if safe

3. Give activated charcoal (1–3 g per kg) if your dog is alert and not vomiting – it can slow the absorption of many toxins

4. Hydrogen peroxide 3% (1 ml per kg, max 45 ml) can be used to induce vomiting – only if your dog is fully alert and not already vomiting, seizing, or struggling to breathe

5. Get to the closest vet as fast as possible

Time is critical – don’t wait to “see how it goes”.

Why Acting Fast Is Everything

Some poisons can take hours before symptoms show – but by then, it might be too late for effective treatment. Acting fast improves the chances of recovery dramatically. I’ve seen it firsthand.