12 Foods That Dachshunds Should Avoid
I remember the first time my little Dachshund, Oscar, gave me those big, pleading eyes while I was eating a slice of avocado toast. It’s so hard to say no! But as any sausage dog owner knows, keeping our long-bodied friends safe is a top priority. Their unique digestive systems and small size mean some human foods can be extra risky.
I’ve learned the hard way that a tiny bite of the wrong thing can lead to a sleepless night or a stressful vet visit. That’s why I put together this list. It’s your go-to guide for keeping your wiener dog happy, healthy, and away from the kitchen counter. Let’s dive into the foods that should never touch their little noses.
1. Chocolate and Caffeine
This one is probably the most well-known, but it’s worth repeating. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs. For a small Dachshund, even a small piece of dark chocolate can be very dangerous.
Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and in severe cases, seizures. Keep all chocolate, coffee grounds, and tea bags far out of reach. Trust me, those little legs can jump higher than you think when they smell something good!
2. Grapes and Raisins
This one always surprises people. Grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, and Dachshunds are no exception. Even a single grape can be toxic to some dogs.
The reaction can vary by dog, but it’s simply not worth the risk. Make sure your kids know not to share their snack, and keep trail mix and baked goods with raisins off the coffee table. I’ve seen it happen, and it’s scary.
3. Onions and Garlic
These kitchen staples are in almost everything, but they are dangerous for your Dachshund. Onions, garlic, leeks, and chives can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia.
This includes raw, cooked, and even powdered forms. So that garlic bread you’re eating? Keep it to yourself. The effects can build up over time, so even small amounts given regularly can cause problems.
4. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free gums, candies, baked goods, and even some peanut butters. For dogs, it causes a rapid release of insulin, leading to dangerously low blood sugar.
In just 30 minutes, your Dachshund could show signs of weakness, vomiting, or even seizures. Always check the label of your peanut butter before sharing a lick. I only buy peanut butter that is 100% peanuts now.
5. Avocado
Avocados contain a substance called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. While the flesh has less persin than the pit or skin, it’s still a problem for a small Dachshund’s stomach.
The biggest danger is the large pit. If your dog swallows it, it can cause a serious intestinal blockage. I love avocado toast, but I always make sure Oscar is in another room when I’m eating it.
6. Macadamia Nuts
These nuts are highly toxic to dogs. Even a small handful can cause weakness, tremors, vomiting, and hyperthermia. The exact reason why is still unknown, but the effects are clear.
The symptoms usually appear within 12 hours and can last for a day or two. Keep all nut mixes, cookies, and baked goods containing macadamia nuts away from your curious Dachshund.
7. Cooked Bones
It might seem natural to give your dog the leftover chicken bone, but cooked bones are a major hazard. They become brittle and can splinter easily, causing choking or puncturing the digestive tract.
Never give your Dachshund cooked bones from chicken, pork, or beef. If you want to give them a bone, always choose a large, raw bone that is too big to swallow, and supervise them closely.
8. Alcohol and Yeast Dough
Alcohol is obviously a no-go, but yeast dough can be just as dangerous. When a dog eats raw dough, the yeast continues to rise in their warm stomach, causing the dough to expand. This can lead to a bloated, painful belly.
Plus, the yeast ferments and produces alcohol, which gets absorbed into their bloodstream. Your Dachshund could end up with alcohol poisoning. Keep bread dough covered and rising on the counter, out of reach.
9. Fatty Foods and Fried Foods
Dachshunds are prone to pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Fatty foods like bacon, fried chicken, and greasy trimmings can trigger a flare-up.
Even a small amount of bacon grease can cause vomiting and severe abdominal pain. Stick to lean meats and healthy treats. Your little one will thank you for a happy tummy.
10. Dairy Products (Milk, Cheese, Ice Cream)
Many dogs are lactose intolerant. While a small piece of cheese might be okay for some, milk, ice cream, and large amounts of cheese can cause digestive upset, including gas, diarrhea, and bloating.
It’s just not worth the discomfort. If you want to give a cold treat, try frozen bananas or a dog-safe ice cream instead. Your Dachshund’s stomach is sensitive, so be careful.
11. Raw Meat and Eggs
Raw meat and eggs can carry bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can make your Dachshund very sick. While some owners follow a raw diet, it’s risky for the average pet.
Raw egg whites also contain an enzyme that can interfere with biotin absorption, leading to skin and coat problems. If you want to give your dog meat, always cook it thoroughly without any seasoning.
12. High-Salt Foods (Chips, Pretzels, Salted Nuts)
Too much salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning in dogs. Symptoms include excessive thirst, urination, vomiting, and in severe cases, tremors or seizures. Dachshunds are small, so it doesn’t take much.
A few salty chips might not seem like a big deal, but it’s best to just avoid them entirely. Keep the snack bowl to yourself and offer your pup a crunchy carrot stick instead.
Conclusion
Keeping your Dachshund safe from harmful foods is one of the most loving things you can do. Their little bodies are delicate, and their curious noses will get them into trouble if we let them. I’ve learned to always have a dog-safe treat ready when I’m snacking.
When in doubt, stick to foods that are specifically made for dogs. And if you ever suspect your Dachshund has eaten something they shouldn’t, call your vet immediately. A little prevention goes a long way in giving them a long, happy life by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can my Dachshund eat peanut butter?
A: Yes, but only if it is 100% peanuts with no added Xylitol. Always check the label carefully before sharing.
Q: What should I do if my Dachshund eats chocolate?
A: Call your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately. The sooner you get help, the better the outcome.
Q: Is cheese safe for my Dachshund?
A: In very small amounts, some dogs can tolerate cheese. But many are lactose intolerant, so it’s best to avoid it or give only a tiny piece as a rare treat.
Q: Can my Dachshund eat fruits like apples or blueberries?
A: Yes, many fruits are safe. Just remove seeds and pits. Apples (no seeds), blueberries, and bananas are great healthy options.
Q: Why is my Dachshund always begging for food?
A: Dachshunds are naturally food-motivated. It’s a good idea to create a consistent feeding schedule and offer healthy, dog-safe alternatives when you’re eating.
