A leading veterinarian is issuing an urgent warning to all dog owners. He highlights three common foods that can cause immediate and severe harm to pets. Many of these items are sitting in your kitchen right now.

Dr. Evan Maxwell, with over 20 years of experience in emergency pet care, stresses the importance of vigilance. “People often think a small piece of human food is a harmless treat,” he says. “But for dogs, some ingredients are pure poison.”

1. Xylitol (The Hidden Sweetener)

What it is: An artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candy, peanut butter, and some baked goods.

Why it’s dangerous: Xylitol causes a rapid and massive release of insulin in dogs. This leads to dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Symptoms can appear within 10 to 60 minutes.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Vomiting

• Weakness and lethargy

• Loss of coordination

• Seizures

Dr. Maxwell’s warning: “Check your peanut butter labels carefully. Xylitol is the number one cause of acute poisoning I see. It can cause liver failure and be fatal very quickly.”

2. Grapes and Raisins (The Mysterious Toxin)

What they are: All forms, including seedless grapes, red and green varieties, and raisins.

Why they’re dangerous: The exact toxin is unknown, but even a small amount can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. Some dogs are extremely sensitive, while others may not react as severely—but it’s never worth the risk.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting and/or diarrhea

• Lethargy and abdominal pain

• Decreased urination

Dr. Maxwell’s warning: “I’ve seen a single grape send a healthy dog into kidney failure. There is no safe dose. Keep fruit salads and trail mix completely out of reach.”