DAY 14 - Foods Chow Chows Should NEVER Eat – A Guide for New Chow Parents

If you’re a Chow Chow parent (or about to become one), you already know that these fluffy, lion-like dogs have a stubborn yet lovable personality. But did you know they also have sensitive stomachs and specific dietary needs?

When we first got Zoey, we made sure to research what foods were safe and what could be harmful—and trust me, there are plenty of human foods that are toxic to Chow Chows. Some foods can cause digestive issues, while others can lead to serious health complications.

So, if you’re wondering what foods your Chow Chow should avoid at all costs, here’s a complete guide to keep your furry friend safe and healthy!

1. Chocolate 🍫 (Highly Toxic!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can lead to seizures, tremors, and heart issues.

🐾 Chow Chows & Chocolate: Their stocky build and slower metabolism make it harder for them to process toxins, meaning even a small amount can be dangerous.

💡 Safer Alternative: If you want to give your pup a treat, try dog-friendly carob treats instead!

2. Onions & Garlic 🧄 (Hidden Danger in Many Foods!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: Both onions and garlic contain thiosulfate, which can cause anemia in dogs by damaging red blood cells.

🐾 Chow Chows & Garlic: Since Chows are prone to digestive sensitivities, even a small amount of garlic or onion powder in food can trigger issues.

💡 Check Labels: Some dog treats and broths contain onion or garlic powder—always read ingredient lists carefully!

3. Grapes & Raisins 🍇 (Can Cause Kidney Failure!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.

🐾 Chow Chows & Grapes: Since Chow Chows are naturally independent eaters, they might snatch food without you noticing. Be extra cautious about leaving fruit bowls within reach!

💡 Safer Alternative: If you want to give your Chow fruit, try blueberries or watermelon (without seeds!) instead.

4. Avocados 🥑 (Not as Healthy for Dogs as It Is for Us!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: Contains persin, a toxin that can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs.

🐾 Chow Chows & Avocados: Since Chows are prone to bloating, avocado can aggravate their digestion and cause discomfort.

💡 Safer Alternative: Try coconut oil in small amounts for a healthy fat source.

5. Dairy Products 🥛 (Many Chows Are Lactose Intolerant!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: Many dogs, including Chow Chows, struggle to digest lactose, which can lead to bloating and gas. 

🐾 Chow Chows & Dairy: Due to their low tolerance for dairy, they should avoid milk, cheese, and ice cream.

💡 Safer Alternative: If you want a creamy treat, plain unsweetened Greek yogurt in small amounts is a better option!

6. Fatty & Fried Foods 🍔 (Can Cause Pancreatitis!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: High-fat foods can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and dangerous condition that inflames the pancreas.

🐾 Chow Chows & Fatty Foods: Since Chows have a dense body structure and lower metabolism, they are more prone to weight gain and digestive upset from fatty foods.

💡 Safer Alternative: Instead of fried food, offer lean meats like boiled chicken (if they aren’t allergic) or cooked salmon for healthy protein!

7. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener) 🍬 (Highly Toxic!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: Xylitol, found in sugar-free gum, candy, and some peanut butters, can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.

🐾 Chow Chows & Xylitol: Since Chow Chows love peanut butter, always check the label to ensure it’s xylitol-free!

💡 Safer Alternative: Stick to natural, unsweetened peanut butter for treats!

8. Bones (Especially Cooked Ones!) 🍗 (Major Choking Hazard!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking, digestive blockages, or internal injuries.

🐾 Chow Chows & Bones: Since Chows are strong chewers, they might accidentally swallow large bone fragments.

💡 Safer Alternative: Opt for Himalayan Yak Chews or antler chews instead!

9. Raw Dough & Yeast 🍞 (Causes Bloating & Alcohol Poisoning!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: Yeast in raw dough expands in the stomach, leading to painful bloating and possibly alcohol poisoning as it ferments.

🐾 Chow Chows & Dough: Since Chows are prone to bloating, raw dough can be especially dangerous for them.

💡 Safer Alternative: Try homemade dog biscuits made with pumpkin or oat flour instead!

10. Excess Salt & Salty Snacks 🥨 (Can Lead to Sodium Poisoning!)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous: Too much salt can cause dehydration, kidney strain, and even sodium poisoning in dogs.

🐾 Chow Chows & Salt: Since Chows have thick coats, they are more prone to overheating, and excess salt can worsen dehydration.

💡 Safer Alternative: Offer low-sodium homemade treats or dog-safe veggies like cucumbers or carrots instead!

11. Chicken (A Common Allergen!) 🍗 (Not Always Safe for All Chows)

🚫 Why it’s dangerous (for some): While chicken is a common protein in dog food, it’s also one of the most common food allergens in dogs—especially in Chow Chows. Many Chows, like Zoey, develop itchy skin, ear infections, or digestive upset when fed chicken regularly.

🐾 Chow Chows & Chicken: Zoey, for example, had recurring skin flare-ups and stomach issues before we identified chicken as the trigger. Since cutting it out of her diet and switching to lamb or salmon-based kibble, she’s been doing so much better.

💡 Safer Alternative: Try novel proteins like lamb, duck, venison, or salmon, which are less likely to cause allergic reactions. Always go for single-protein, limited-ingredient dog food if your Chow has sensitivities.

Final Woof: Keep Your Chow Chow’s Diet Safe & Healthy!

Chow Chows are unique dogs with specific dietary needs, and avoiding harmful foods is essential for their long-term health and well-being.

🐾 Key Takeaways for New Chow Parents:

✅ Avoid toxic foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and xylitol.

✅ Be mindful of foods that can cause digestive upset, like dairy and fatty foods.

✅ Choose healthier alternatives like blueberries, carrots, lean meats, and peanut butter (xylitol-free!).

✅ Monitor your Chow’s diet closely, as they can be prone to allergies and bloating.

Since switching Zoey to a clean, high-protein, and safe diet, she’s been happier, healthier, and full of energy!

📢 Are you a Chow parent? Have you ever accidentally given your pup a food they shouldn’t have eaten? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! 🐶💛