What vegetables are bad for dogs?

The allium family tops the list: onion, garlic, leeks, spring onions, shallots, chives and wild garlic, in any form, raw or cooked, fresh or powdered. They can cause anemia, with serious signs often appearing days later.

Rhubarb leaves and stalks contain soluble oxalates that can affect blood calcium and the kidneys. Wild mushrooms can be deadly and are hard to identify.

Raw potatoes, green skins, sprouts and potato leaves contain solanine. Tomato leaves, stems and green fruit do too. Raw or undercooked kidney beans contain a lectin that causes severe stomach upset. Eggplant leaves and stems carry solanine as well.

Corn cobs are one of the most common causes of intestinal blockage in dogs. Artichoke leaves, whole celery stalks and large chunks of raw root vegetables can cause choking. Dried beach seaweed can swell in the gut. These are not toxic, but they can still lead to emergency surgery.

Many prepared foods carry these ingredients without making them obvious. Stock cubes, gravy granules, soup mixes, baby food, seasoning blends, sausages and ready meals commonly include onion or garlic powder. Always read ingredient lists before sharing anything savory, and assume restaurant and takeaway leftovers contain alliums unless you know otherwise.

Plain carrots, green beans, cucumber, courgette, peas, cooked sweet potato, cooked pumpkin, bell peppers and small amounts of broccoli are all widely considered safe. Serve them without butter, salt, garlic or onion, and keep all treats, vegetables included, to about 10 percent of daily calories.