Dogs are really very curious animals. Like babies, they often use their noses to get a hold of anything they could and just put it into their mouth. It’s probably instinctive for them to understand their environment through the senses that are available to them.

Some pet owners often leave all sorts of things lying around or often deliberately give their dogs different types of food without understanding the possible dangers or health risks that these things might have on our pets. One specific food that we humans take every day is coffee.

Is it ok to give coffee to our pet dogs? Most people, when given ample time to analyze and think, would probably say no. Unfortunately, these are the type of questions that many of us don’t really care too much to ask. The truth is, giving your pet dog coffee is dangerous; and this means potentially-deadly dangerous.

Coffee contains caffeine, which is beneficial for us humans in a lot of ways, but very dangerous in dogs. Caffeine, as well as theobromine (a substance usually found in chocolate), are toxic to our pet dogs because these compounds trigger gastrointestinal problems, neuromuscular problems and even cardiac abnormalities. Owners should watch for any adverse reactions attributed to the intake of coffee.

Although the good news is that minimal amounts of coffee intake won’t leave permanent damage on our beloved friends, this fact does not encourage us to actually give our pets coffee. Aside from the caffeine, excessive intake of sugar may also cause serious problems if left untreated.

Experts would also recommend owners to watch out for alcohol, chocolate, human vitamin supplements, dairy products, onions, garlic, sugary food, mushrooms and even salt. Unless you’re a Prahran vet, it might be a very good idea to seek professional advice from your nearest vet clinic.

Aside from kids, adults now have another reason to be more cautious when it comes to leaving a cup of cappuccino on the kitchen table or in their car.