10 Dangerous Items at Home That Could Kill Your Shih Tzu

That “Harmless” Item Under Your Sink Can Kill Your Shih Tzu in Hours

You think your home is safe. But right now, within reach of your curious Shih Tzu, are 10 common items that can cause kidney failure, seizures, or death. One lick of antifreeze. One chewed battery. One toxic plant leaf. That’s all it takes.

Watch the complete video above for visual identification of household dangers.

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Quick Navigation

1. Antifreeze
2. Cleaning Products
3. Human Medications
4. Batteries
5. Insecticides
6. Plastic Bags
7. Sharp Objects
8. Toxic Plants
9. Electrical Cords
10. Alcohol

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1. Antifreeze: The Sweet but Deadly Chemical

Why Antifreeze Is Extremely Dangerous

Antifreeze, used in vehicle cooling systems, contains ethylene glycol—a highly toxic substance that proves fatal to dogs in remarkably small amounts. The compound’s sweet taste attracts dogs, making accidental ingestion more likely than with bitter or unpleasant-tasting toxins.

Mechanism of Toxicity: Ethylene glycol metabolizes in the liver into toxic compounds that crystallize in the kidneys, causing acute kidney failure. Damage occurs rapidly, with kidney function deteriorating within hours of ingestion.

Lethal Dose: As little as one teaspoon can be fatal to a small dog like a Shih Tzu. Even a few licks of spilled antifreeze can deliver a toxic dose.

Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning

Early Stage (30 minutes to 12 hours):

• Appearing drunk or disoriented
• Vomiting
• Excessive thirst and urination
• Stumbling or loss of coordination
• Seizures

Advanced Stage (12-24 hours):

• Severe lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Decreased urination or no urination
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Coma and death

Emergency Response

Time is Critical: Antifreeze poisoning requires immediate emergency veterinary care. The antidote (fomepizole or ethanol) must be administered within hours of ingestion to prevent permanent kidney damage.

Don’t Wait for Symptoms: If antifreeze ingestion is suspected, contact emergency veterinary services immediately rather than waiting for symptoms to develop.

Prevention Strategies

• Store antifreeze in locked cabinets or high shelves inaccessible to dogs
• Clean up any spills immediately and thoroughly
• Use antifreeze products containing propylene glycol (less toxic) rather than ethylene glycol when possible
• Never allow dogs in garages or driveways where antifreeze may have spilled
• Dispose of used antifreeze properly at recycling centers

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2. Household Cleaning Products

Chemical Sensitivity in Shih Tzus

Cleaning products contain chemicals that can cause irritation, burns, respiratory distress, or systemic toxicity in dogs. Shih Tzus’ small size means lower doses produce more severe effects than in larger dogs.

Common Dangerous Cleaners

Bleach: Causes oral and esophageal burns, vomiting, drooling, and respiratory irritation from fumes.

Ammonia: Produces respiratory distress, eye irritation, and chemical burns to mucous membranes.

Toilet Bowl Cleaners: Often contain strong acids or bases causing severe burns if ingested.

Floor Cleaners: Residue on floors can be absorbed through paw pads or ingested during grooming.

Disinfectants: Many contain phenols or pine oils toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and neurological symptoms.

Symptoms of Cleaning Product Exposure

• Drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing or coughing
• Eye redness or squinting
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Chemical burns around mouth or on paws
• Lethargy or disorientation

Safe Cleaning Practices

During Cleaning:

• Remove dogs from areas being cleaned
• Ensure adequate ventilation
• Allow surfaces to dry completely before allowing dog access
• Rinse floors thoroughly if using cleaners

Product Selection:

• Choose pet-safe cleaning products specifically formulated for homes with animals
• Use natural alternatives (vinegar and water, baking soda) where effective
• Avoid products with strong fragrances or aerosol sprays

Storage:

• Keep all cleaning products in locked or high cabinets
• Never transfer products to unmarked containers
• Store products in original containers with labels intact

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3. Human Medications

The Medication Danger

Many common over-the-counter and prescription human medications prove toxic to dogs. Well-meaning owners sometimes attempt to treat dog ailments with human medications, or dogs access medications accidentally.

Most Dangerous Medications

Pain Relievers (NSAIDs):

• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Naproxen (Aleve)
• Aspirin

These cause stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and liver damage in dogs. Even one pill can be toxic to a Shih Tzu.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Extremely toxic to dogs, causing liver failure and red blood cell damage.

Antidepressants: Cause neurological symptoms including tremors, seizures, and elevated heart rate.

ADHD Medications: Stimulants cause dangerous increases in heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.

Sleep Aids: Can cause severe sedation, low blood pressure, and respiratory depression.

Blood Pressure Medications: Cause life-threatening drops in blood pressure.

Accidental Ingestion Prevention

• Store all medications in high cabinets or locked medicine boxes
• Never leave pill bottles on nightstands or counters
• Don’t carry loose pills in purses or bags accessible to dogs
• Dispose of expired medications properly at pharmacy take-back programs
• Pick up any dropped pills immediately
• Never give dogs human medication without explicit veterinary instruction

Emergency Response

If medication ingestion occurs, contact veterinarians immediately with information about:

• Medication name and strength
• Estimated amount consumed
• Time of ingestion
• Dog’s current symptoms

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4. Batteries

Battery Toxicity and Injury Risks

Batteries pose multiple dangers: corrosive chemical burns, heavy metal toxicity, and physical obstruction if swallowed whole.

Chemical Burns: Battery acid (alkaline or acidic) causes severe burns to mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach tissues. Damage occurs rapidly upon contact.

Heavy Metal Poisoning: Batteries contain toxic metals including mercury, lead, lithium, and zinc. If battery casings are punctured or damaged, these substances can leak and cause systemic poisoning.

Obstruction: Larger batteries may lodge in the throat or digestive tract, causing choking or blockage.

Types of Batteries and Risks

Button Batteries: Small disc batteries (in watches, remote controls, hearing aids) are easily swallowed and particularly dangerous. They can cause severe burns within hours.

AA/AAA Batteries: Can be punctured by chewing, releasing corrosive chemicals.

Lithium Batteries: Found in electronics, these can cause thermal burns in addition to chemical damage.

Symptoms of Battery Ingestion

• Drooling or difficulty swallowing
• Refusal to eat
• Vomiting (possibly bloody)
• Abdominal pain
• Black, tarry stools
• Oral burns or redness
• Breathing difficulty

Prevention and Safety

• Store loose batteries in secure containers
• Dispose of dead batteries immediately in secure trash
• Keep battery-operated devices out of reach
• Check remote controls, toys, and devices regularly for secure battery compartments
• Choose devices with screw-secured battery compartments when possible

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5. Insecticides and Pesticides

Pesticide Toxicity

Products designed to kill insects, rodents, or garden pests contain poisons that affect dogs similarly. Even “pet-safe” products require proper application and precautions.

Common Toxic Pest Control Products

Rodenticides (Rat/Mouse Poison): Different types cause different symptoms—some prevent blood clotting (causing internal bleeding), others cause kidney failure or neurological damage.

Insecticides: Sprays, baits, and granular products for fleas, ants, roaches, or garden insects often contain organophosphates or carbamates affecting the nervous system.

Slug/Snail Bait: Contains metaldehyde, which causes severe tremors, seizures, and hyperthermia.

Lawn Chemicals: Fertilizers and weed killers can cause gastrointestinal upset or more serious toxicity depending on ingredients.

Safe Pest Control

• Use pet-safe alternatives when available
• Apply products according to label instructions regarding pet safety
• Keep dogs away from treated areas for recommended timeframes
• Store all pest control products securely
• Consider professional application with clear safety protocols
• Never use rodenticides in areas accessible to dogs

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6. Plastic Bags and Food Wrappers

Suffocation and Obstruction Hazards

Plastic bags present dual dangers: suffocation risk when dogs place their heads inside bags seeking food remnants, and intestinal obstruction if plastic is ingested.

Suffocation: Dogs attracted to food smells may push their heads into bags. The plastic forms an airtight seal around the muzzle, causing rapid suffocation.

Intestinal Blockage: Swallowed plastic can ball up in the stomach or intestines, causing complete or partial obstruction requiring emergency surgery.

High-Risk Items

• Chip bags and snack packaging
• Bread bags
• Grocery bags
• Food storage bags
• Plastic wrap and cling film
• Candy wrappers

Prevention Measures

• Dispose of plastic bags and wrappers immediately in secure trash
• Never leave food packaging on counters or tables
• Use trash cans with secure lids
• Tie grocery bags before disposal
• Educate family members about proper disposal
• Consider reusable cloth bags that don’t present suffocation risk

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7. Sharp Objects

Injury Risks from Sharp Items

Knives, scissors, needles, razors, and other sharp objects can cause cuts, puncture wounds, or internal injuries if swallowed.

Curious Exploration: Shih Tzus may knock sharp items off counters during counter-surfing or encounter them on floors if dropped.

Chewing Hazards: Some dogs chew on inappropriate items, risking cuts to mouth, tongue, or digestive tract.

Common Sharp Household Hazards

• Kitchen knives and scissors
• Sewing needles and pins
• Razors and razor blades
• Broken glass or ceramics
• Staples and tacks
• Sharp food skewers or toothpicks

Safety Practices

• Store sharp objects in drawers or knife blocks out of reach
• Never leave knives on counters or tables
• Clean up broken glass or ceramics immediately and thoroughly
• Use magnetic strips or secure storage for kitchen tools
• Check floors regularly for dropped sharp items
• Secure sewing kits and craft supplies in closed containers

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8. Toxic Houseplants

Plant Toxicity in Dogs

Many popular houseplants and garden plants contain compounds toxic to dogs. Severity ranges from mild gastrointestinal upset to organ failure and death.

Highly Toxic Plants

Lilies (All Varieties): Extremely toxic, causing kidney failure. All parts of the plant are dangerous, even pollen.

Sago Palms: All parts are toxic, with seeds being most dangerous. Cause liver failure and have high fatality rates.

Azaleas/Rhododendrons: Contain grayanotoxins affecting the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

Oleander: All parts are extremely toxic, affecting the heart.

Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane): Causes oral irritation, drooling, and difficulty swallowing.

Moderately Toxic Plants

• Pothos/Devil’s Ivy
• Philodendron
• Aloe vera
• Snake plant
• Peace lily (not a true lily, but still toxic)

Creating Plant-Safe Environments

• Research all plants before bringing them into homes with dogs
• Remove highly toxic plants entirely
• Place moderately toxic plants in areas completely inaccessible to dogs (high shelves, closed rooms)
• Consider artificial plants as alternatives
• Clean up fallen leaves or flowers immediately
• Choose non-toxic alternatives: spider plants, Boston ferns, African violets

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9. Electrical Cords

Electrocution and Burn Risks

Dogs, particularly puppies and young dogs, may chew on electrical cords, treating them like toys. Biting through insulation to reach wires can cause severe injuries.

Electric Shock: Current passing through the body can cause cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, or severe burns.

Oral Burns: Electricity creates arc burns in the mouth, on the tongue, and on lips—painful injuries requiring extensive veterinary treatment.

Fire Hazard: Damaged cords can spark fires.

Why Dogs Chew Cords

• Natural chewing instinct, especially during teething
• Boredom or lack of appropriate chew toys
• Exploration of environment
• Texture appeal

Cord Safety Strategies

Physical Barriers:

• Hide cords behind furniture
• Use cord covers or protective sleeves
• Run cords through PVC pipes or cord management systems
• Secure cords to baseboards with cable clips

Deterrents:

• Apply bitter-tasting cord covers or sprays designed for pets
• Provide abundant appropriate chew toys
• Redirect chewing behavior immediately when observed

Environmental Management:

• Unplug devices when not in use
• Use outlet covers
• Minimize number of exposed cords
• Supervise young dogs closely in areas with cords

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10. Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol Toxicity in Dogs

Even small amounts of alcohol can cause serious intoxication in dogs. Their smaller body size means rapid absorption and severe effects from quantities that barely affect humans.

Mechanism: Alcohol depresses the central nervous system, affecting coordination, consciousness, and vital functions like breathing and heart rate.

Sources: Beer, wine, liquor, cocktails, and foods containing alcohol (rum cake, bourbon chicken, etc.).

Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning

Mild to Moderate:

• Stumbling or loss of coordination
• Disorientation or confusion
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting
• Lethargy or unusual sleepiness

Severe:

• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Dangerously low blood pressure
• Hypothermia (low body temperature)
• Coma
• Death in extreme cases

Prevention

• Never offer alcoholic beverages to dogs
• Keep drinks out of reach on high surfaces
• Clean up spills immediately
• Dispose of empty containers in secure trash
• Educate guests never to share alcohol with pets
• Monitor dogs during parties or gatherings where alcohol is served

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Creating a Comprehensive Safety Plan

Room-by-Room Safety Assessment

Kitchen:

• Secure cabinets with child-proof locks
• Store cleaners and chemicals separately from food
• Keep trash in cabinets or use secure lids
• Don’t leave food or wrappers on counters

Bathroom:

• Lock medicine cabinets
• Store cleaning products securely
• Keep toilet lids down (toilet bowl cleaners are toxic)
• Secure trash bins

Garage/Laundry:

• Store automotive products, antifreeze, pesticides in locked cabinets
• Keep dogs out of garage when vehicles are running
• Secure cleaning products and detergents

Living Areas:

• Manage electrical cords
• Choose non-toxic plants
• Secure remote batteries
• Store craft supplies and sharp objects

Emergency Preparedness

Contact Information:

• Regular veterinarian phone number
• 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
• Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Emergency Response:

• Keep contact numbers readily accessible
• Know location of nearest emergency clinic
• Have pet first aid kit available
• Never induce vomiting without professional guidance

Watch the full video above for visual identification of these household hazards.

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Educating All Household Members

Everyone in the home should understand household dangers:

• Children need age-appropriate education about not sharing food or items with dogs
• Guests should be informed about keeping purses, bags, and medications secure
• Family members should commit to proper storage and cleanup
• Everyone should know emergency procedures

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Conclusion

Many common household items pose serious risks to Shih Tzus, from toxic antifreeze and medications to choking hazards and electrical dangers. Creating a safe environment requires awareness of these hazards and consistent implementation of preventive measures.

Regular safety assessments, proper storage of dangerous items, supervision of curious dogs, and emergency preparedness protect Shih Tzus from accidental poisoning and injury. The effort invested in maintaining a safe home environment prevents emergencies and ensures these beloved companions remain healthy and secure.

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📚 Related Guides You’ll Find Helpful

Toxic Foods & Safety

• 5 Toxic Foods That Can Make Your Shih Tzu Sick - Learn which kitchen foods are deadly toxic
• Shih Tzu Mistakes Every Owner Makes - Critical safety errors affecting longevity

Warning Signs & Health

• Signs Your Shih Tzu Is Sick, In Pain, or Uncomfortable - Recognize symptoms of poisoning and detect hidden distress

Complete Care

• Complete Shih Tzu Care Guide - Your comprehensive safety and care resource

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This guide is for educational purposes only. In case of suspected poisoning or injury, always contact a licensed veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Time is critical in many poisoning cases, and professional guidance is essential.