Do you eagerly await Taco Tuesday? We all love guacamole, but what about our furry friends? Can dogs indulge in this delicious dip? Unfortunately, the answer is no. While guacamole is healthy for humans, it poses risks to our canine companions, especially if it contains onion or garlic.
The History and Composition of Guacamole
Guacamole has ancient origins, tracing back to the Aztecs in Mexico and South America. The name “guacamole” comes from the Aztec word “ahuaca-mulli,” meaning “avocado mixture.” Avocados are the primary ingredient of guacamole and are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Interestingly, National Guacamole Day coincides with Mexican Independence Day on September 16. Fun fact: Americans consume about 53 million pounds of guacamole on Super Bowl Sunday!
Image Credit: Jumpstory
Why Guacamole is Unsafe for Dogs
Sadly, guacamole contains ingredients that are harmful to dogs. These include avocadoes, onions, salt, garlic, tomatoes, lime or lemon juice, cilantro, parsley, and spices like cumin or cayenne.
Avocadoes
Avocadoes aren’t as dog-friendly as you might think. They contain a toxin called persin, which can vary in levels among different avocado species and ripeness stages. While dogs are generally less affected by persin, it’s impossible to determine the exact amount present in an avocado. Additionally, the pit poses a choking hazard, potentially resulting in a blockage.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic, common guacamole ingredients, are toxic to dogs. These Allium family plants can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia and blood loss. Certain dog breeds, such as Shiba Inus and Akitas, are particularly vulnerable to thiosulphate poisoning—a compound found in garlic.
Salt
Salt, which adds flavor to guacamole, is harmful to dogs. While the salt content in guacamole is typically low, it’s best to avoid feeding your dog any human foods with salt.
Tomatoes
Good news! Ripe red tomatoes used in guacamole are safe for dogs. However, unripe tomatoes and tomato plants contain a toxic substance called tomatine, so keep your dog away from them.
Lime or Lemon Juice
The acidic nature of lime or lemon juice may not appeal to dogs, and these fruits contain linalool, limonene, and psoralens, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Nevertheless, the small amount of juice in guacamole is unlikely to cause vomiting or diarrhea.
Parsley and Cilantro
Parsley and cilantro, though found in some guacamole recipes, are actually beneficial for dogs. They offer vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and aid in digestion. It’s best to give your dog small amounts of these herbs sprinkled over their food, rather than including them in guacamole.
Spices
While spices like cumin, cayenne, and jalapenos add a kick to guacamole, they can irritate your dog’s digestive system, causing diarrhea or vomiting. Avoid giving your dog spicy guacamole to save yourself from cleaning up the aftermath!
What to Do if Your Dog Consumes Guacamole
If your dog manages to sneak a taste of guacamole, assess the situation. A tablespoon of guacamole is unlikely to cause harm, but a larger quantity, especially if it contained onions and garlic, warrants attention. If your dog exhibits any signs of poisoning, immediately contact your vet. Remember, symptoms may take up to five days to appear, and early intervention is vital.
Image Credit: Elena Loza, Shutterstock
Conclusion: Guacamole is a No-Go for Dogs
While dogs may enjoy the taste of guacamole, it’s best to avoid feeding it to them. The risks associated with the ingredients outweigh any potential benefits. Instead, reward your pup with a tasty chew or bone and reserve guacamole for the human members of your family to enjoy.
Find out more about dog-friendly foods: Can Dogs Eat Brussels Sprouts?
Featured Image Credit: PublicDomainImages, Pixabay