As a loving dog owner, you want to share everything with your furry friend, including delicious human foods. However, the seemingly innocent act of giving your dog a bite of your meal could put their health at serious risk. Many common household foods are actually your dog’s worst enemy, containing substances that are toxic even in small amounts. Knowing What Foods Can I Not Feed My Dog is crucial for their well-being, as pet poisonings are a significant threat, with over 401,500 cases reported annually in the United States. While not all incidents are food-related, common human foods are a major contributor. This guide will serve as your essential “cheat sheet” to help you distinguish between safe treats and dangerous toxins, ensuring your canine companion stays healthy and happy.
Why Certain Foods Are Toxic to Dogs
Understanding the fundamental differences between human and canine digestion and metabolism is key to grasping why certain foods are harmful to dogs. While humans can safely consume a wide variety of foods, dogs’ bodies process many substances very differently. For instance, dogs metabolize compounds like theobromine and caffeine, found in chocolate, much slower than humans. This slower metabolism means these substances can rapidly accumulate in their system, potentially leading to fatal consequences.
Similarly, while you can enjoy cherries, the cyanide present in their pits, stems, and leaves can pose a problem if ingested in large quantities by your dog. Additionally, fruit pits can cause gastrointestinal obstruction and diarrhea due to their indigestible nature, making it best to avoid them entirely. Food toxicity can also vary based on your dog’s size, breed, and overall health condition. Therefore, if you ever have questions or concerns about specific items your dog cannot eat, always consult your veterinarian.
Common Foods Dogs Cannot Eat (Toxic and Harmful)
Many everyday household foods are dangerous, and often toxic, to dogs. Some of the most frequently encountered foods that are bad for dogs include alcohol, avocados, macadamia nuts, grapes and raisins, xylitol, and chocolate. It is vital for your dog’s safety to avoid all the foods listed below. Keep in mind that while this list compiles many common items, it is not exhaustive.
Alcohol
Due to their smaller size compared to humans, alcohol can have a much more severe and potentially deadly effect on dogs. Even small quantities can cause harm, with the danger increasing for smaller pets. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in dogs mirror those in humans, including vomiting, breathing difficulties, coma, and even death.
Apple, Apricot, Cherry, and Plum Seeds/Pits
While the fleshy part of an apple is generally safe for dogs, the core and especially the seeds are not. Apple seeds contain cyanide, and though small amounts might not be immediately problematic, it’s safest to avoid them. Similarly, the seeds and pits of apricots, cherries, peaches, and plums should be strictly avoided. These also contain cyanide, which can lead to vomiting, an irregular or rapid heartbeat, seizures, coma, and ultimately death, as it impairs red blood cells’ ability to carry oxygen.
Avocado
Avocados are not a suitable food choice for dogs. There have been reported cases of myocardial damage in dogs after consuming avocados. While these specific results haven’t been widely replicated, avocados are known to cause issues in other mammal species. Furthermore, an intact avocado pit can cause a dangerous gastrointestinal obstruction in dogs. For these reasons, it’s best to keep this fruit away from your pet.
Avocado is not a good choice for dogs, as it can cause health issues and the pit is a choking hazard.
Broccoli
Broccoli contains isothiocyanates, compounds that can be harmful to pets in very large doses. While tiny amounts of broccoli might be acceptable occasionally, it’s generally best to avoid it given the abundance of other healthy and safe food options. Additionally, broccoli stalks can pose a choking hazard or cause an obstruction in a dog’s throat.
Caffeine and Coffee Grounds
Caffeine contains methylxanthines, which can induce potentially fatal symptoms in dogs, including diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and an irregular heartbeat. Ingesting coffee grounds or any highly caffeinated drink can cause your dog’s heart to race, leading to tremors, arrhythmia, difficulty breathing, and other severe symptoms.
Fatty Cuts of Meat (Chicken & Turkey Skin, Ham)
Fatty cuts of meat, such as ham and the skin from chicken or turkey, should be discarded rather than offered as treats to pets. These foods are harmful to dogs due to their high fat content, which can trigger acute pancreatitis—a life-threatening illness with severe complications.
It’s also important to avoid giving dogs turkey and chicken bones. These bones can splinter, leading to obstructions in the bowels or damage to the stomach or intestines. In some cases, splintered bones can puncture these organs, resulting in a fatal abdominal infection.
Chocolate
Chocolate toxicity is a frequent cause of pet poisoning, especially during holidays. Your dog should absolutely not consume any chocolate product. Chocolate contains a lethal component called theobromine; the darker the chocolate, the higher its concentration. Chocolate also contains caffeine, and some sugar-free varieties may even include xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Dogs and cats cannot metabolize chocolate effectively. Dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate are the most dangerous, but any type of chocolate can be problematic.
Symptoms of chocolate ingestion can include hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis, abnormal heart rhythm, and seizures. If your dog ingests any amount of chocolate, no matter how small, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are highly toxic to dogs and can cause severe symptoms.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are exceptionally dangerous for dogs. These fruits can cause severe issues, including kidney failure, due to their tartaric acid content, which is toxic to a dog’s kidneys. Even a few bites can wreak havoc. Symptoms of raisin or grape poisoning include vomiting and diarrhea, loss of appetite, changes in urination, or complete anuria (lack of urine production).
Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause severe kidney failure.
Macadamia Nuts, Almonds, and Pistachios
Macadamia nuts can cause dogs to suffer from numerous painful symptoms, including weakness, overheating, and vomiting. While the precise mechanism of poisoning remains a mystery, these nuts are definitively considered toxic to dogs. As few as six nuts can induce severe poisoning in a small dog.
While macadamia nuts are the most dangerous, other nuts like pistachios and almonds can pose choking hazards, especially if they are flavored or spiced. For more information on fruits and vegetables your dog cannot have, you can read about what fruits can dog not have.
Milk and Dairy Products
Milk and other dairy products should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for dogs. Some dogs can consume milk or dairy without issues, but many are lactose intolerant or allergic, potentially experiencing diarrhea and gas from cow’s milk.
Ice cream is generally bad for dogs due to its high sugar and fat content. Instead of ice cream, try freezing small pieces of healthy fruits that your dog can safely eat. Small quantities of lower-fat cheese can be an acceptable treat, but avoid high-fat varieties.
Mushrooms
It is always safest to avoid feeding your dog mushrooms. Mushrooms can contain various toxins that may lead to kidney and liver failure, vomiting, diarrhea, hallucinations, and damage to red blood cells. While washed, white grocery store mushrooms might be considered safe, it’s generally prudent to choose a different treat to minimize risk.
Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Dogs should never be fed foods containing nutmeg. This spice can cause hallucinations and severe vomiting. The toxic compound is myristicin, and its effects are stronger in high doses or for small dogs. If your dog ingests any amount of nutmeg, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Cinnamon should also be avoided, not because it’s toxic, but because it can irritate your dog’s mouth and may lead to dangerously low blood sugar, which can have serious health implications for your pet.
Onions, Garlic, Chives, and Leeks
Many pet owners are surprised to learn that herbs from the allium family—such as onions and garlic—are unsafe for their dogs. Onions and garlic contain sulfoxides and disulfides, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in both dogs and cats. Onion and garlic powders are present in many processed foods, even baby food, so it is crucial to read labels before offering any store-bought items to your pet.
In fact, all allium plants, including chives and leeks, can cause potentially fatal anemia in dogs and cats. Certain Japanese breeds, such as Akitas and Shiba Inus, are particularly sensitive to these plants, but they pose a danger to all dogs.
Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks are toxic to dogs, causing red blood cell damage and potentially fatal anemia.
Salt
Excessive amounts of salt can disrupt the fluid balance in your dog’s cells. Too much salt can lead to tremors, seizures, diarrhea, or even a coma. Whether your dog is eyeing rock salt, homemade play dough, or potato chips, do not let their pleading eyes compromise their health.
Spicy Food
Keep your dog away from spicy foods. Hot, spicy ingredients can cause vomiting, stomach ulcers, or diarrhea, which can be very painful for your dog and potentially costly for you if emergency veterinary care is required.
Sugar-Free Gum and Candy (Xylitol)
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many human foods, particularly sugar-free gum and candy, and is extremely toxic to dogs. Ingesting xylitol can cause a rapid and dangerous drop in blood sugar, leading to weakness and seizures. Some dogs may also develop liver failure. Cases of dog poisoning involving this sweetener, also found in sugar-free baked goods, are on the rise. The amount of xylitol in just five pieces of gum could be fatal to a 65-pound dog.
Xylitol, a sweetener in sugar-free gum and candy, is highly toxic to dogs and can cause severe health issues.
Tomatoes and Raw Potatoes
Tomatoes and potatoes fall into the category of “safe in some forms, unsafe in others.” A ripened red tomato is generally safe for dogs. However, the green parts of the tomato plant, as well as green, unripe tomatoes, contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs.
Potatoes follow a similar rule. Baked or boiled potatoes without additives are generally safe in small amounts. However, raw potatoes also contain solanine, making them toxic to dogs.
Tobacco
Tobacco is profoundly dangerous and unhealthy for your dog. Exposure to nicotine-containing products can trigger a variety of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, rapid or labored breathing, agitation, abnormal heart rate, wobbliness, muscle weakness, high or low blood pressure, seizures, and tremors. More significant or frequent exposure can lead to blue gums and coma, and may ultimately be fatal.
Dogs are naturally curious and might get into a discarded cigarette on a walk or investigate an ashtray. If your dog ingests any tobacco, you must act swiftly and take them to the veterinarian immediately.
Yeast and Raw Dough
Yeast and raw dough are unsafe for dogs for multiple reasons. Raw dough can expand significantly in your dog’s stomach, causing severe pain and potentially life-threatening conditions like gastric torsion or rupture.
Moreover, the yeast and sugar in raw dough can ferment, producing alcohol and leading to alcohol toxicity. This condition can rapidly become fatal and requires immediate medical intervention.
Raw Meat
Never feed your dog raw or undercooked meat. Raw meat can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can be dangerous for dogs as well as humans. Additionally, bones in raw meat can pose a choking hazard or cause internal injuries.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb, a common ingredient in desserts like pies, is not safe for pets. This plant contains soluble calcium oxalate crystals in its leaves. If consumed in sufficiently large quantities, these crystals can bind with calcium in the body, causing a dangerous drop in calcium levels and potentially leading to renal failure. Symptoms include tremors, weakness, drooling, bloody urine, changes in thirst and urination, and vomiting.
Star Fruit
Similar to rhubarb, star fruit also contains soluble calcium oxalate crystals. It is best to prevent your dog from snacking on this fruit.
Flavored Water and Seltzer Water
It is always safer to provide your dog with fresh, clean water rather than anything flavored or carbonated. Seltzer and flavored waters can contain added ingredients that are dangerous to pups, such as sugar or salt. Plain seltzer water might be acceptable in small amounts in an urgent situation, but it can cause gas and bloating. Sticking to plain water is always the best option. For a comprehensive look at what fruits and vegetables can dogs not have, check out our related article.
Safe Foods for Dogs: What Your Canine Companion Can Enjoy
While the list of foods your dog cannot eat is extensive, there is also a wide array of safe and healthy options. Some of the most popular and safest foods that dogs tend to enjoy include small amounts of dehydrated chicken or beef, apples (without the core), green beans, and carrots.
Here are some commonly enjoyed foods that your dog can safely eat. This list is not exhaustive, but it provides a great starting point.
Apples, Oranges, and Bananas
You must remove apple cores and seeds due to their toxicity, but the fleshy parts of apples are perfectly safe for your dog. Cutting off a small piece of apple eliminates any risk of your dog ingesting the core. Oranges are safe when given in small amounts. In moderation, bananas (peeled) can also be a delightful treat.
Blueberries and Blackberries
Blueberries are tasty and healthy treats that many dogs adore. They are packed with antioxidants, fiber, phytochemicals, and vitamin C, all of which contribute positively to your pup’s health.
Cantaloupe, Mango, Peaches, Pears, Pineapples, and Watermelons
Many fruits can be safely enjoyed by your dog, so try a variety to discover their favorites! Cantaloupes are an excellent choice. Your dog might also love watermelon, provided you remove the rinds and seeds (including the pale seeds in seedless varieties) to prevent choking. Given its high water content, watermelon is especially refreshing on a warm day.
Mangoes, peaches, pears, and pineapples are also safe in moderation. Always ensure you remove all seeds, pits, and cores before offering these fruity treats to your pup. To further understand what fruits can dogs have and not have, explore our detailed article.
Carrots, Cucumber, and Celery
For more ideas, remember the three C’s: carrots, cucumbers, and celery. These vegetables and fruits are particularly great options for overweight dogs due to their very low-calorie content.
Bite-sized carrot pieces offer a satisfying crunch that many dogs enjoy. Celery bites also provide a fun crunch and can even help with bad breath. Cucumber slices are rich in vitamins and minerals, with minimal carbohydrates or fats.
Cheese
While milk and most dairy products should generally be avoided, a small amount of cheese occasionally is acceptable if you confirm your dog is not lactose intolerant. Remember that some cheeses can be high in fat, which is dangerous for dogs. Opt for lower-fat varieties, such as a small piece of mozzarella, or consult your veterinarian for the best type.
Eggs
Fully cooked eggs can be a tasty and enjoyable treat for your dog. Scrambled eggs can help soothe an upset stomach and provide a good source of protein.
Peanuts, Peanut Butter, and Cashews
Peanuts and cashews are safe for dogs in small quantities. Due to their high fat content, however, they should only be given as an occasional treat. Ensure they are unsalted, unflavored, and unspiced.
Regarding peanut butter, it is a delicious and high-protein treat for your pup in moderation. Look for unsalted peanut butter and strictly avoid any sugar-free varieties that contain xylitol.
Popcorn and Corn
Popcorn is another appealing treat your dog might love. Choose air-popped, unsalted, and unbuttered popcorn. Carefully inspect the popcorn to ensure there are no unpopped kernels, which could cause your dog to choke.
Naturally, this means corn (removed from the cob) is also acceptable when served without butter, salt, or spices.
Coconut and Honey
In small amounts, coconut is fine for your dog, including coconut milk and coconut oil. It contains lauric acid and may even help with allergies. However, some dogs might experience an upset stomach from fresh coconut or coconut milk, so use with caution. (Avoid coconut water, which is not safe for dogs.) Also, ensure your dog does not eat the fibrous shell, which can be a choking hazard.
Honey, in moderation, is also safe and provides numerous vitamins and minerals beneficial for your pup.
Shrimp and Fish
Plain, fully cooked shrimp is an excellent choice for your dog. Remember to remove the shell, head, tail, and legs, and avoid any shrimp that has been seasoned, salted, or buttered.
Fish is also permissible, especially salmon and sardines. Ensure the fish is plain, fully cooked, and boneless. A general guideline is to give your dog fish no more than twice a week. Plain, canned tuna (packed in water, not oil) is safe in moderation to avoid excessive mercury and salt.
Turkey
Turkey meat is a healthy and safe option for dogs once the skin, fat, and bones have been removed. Offer small, plain bites of turkey as a delicious treat and a great source of protein. Always avoid anything seasoned or salted.
Grains, Wheat, and Quinoa
What about grains, wheat, or quinoa? Similar to corn, a small amount of wheat or other grains is perfectly fine. Quinoa is also considered a healthier filler option. Always monitor your dog for any signs of allergic reactions.
Green Beans
Many dogs thoroughly enjoy green beans, whether they are served raw, steamed, or from a can. They are safe, tasty, and healthy—a winning combination. Opt for green beans that are raw or cooked plain, without added spices, oils, or salt. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking. If you’re wondering what fruits can dogs not have, refer to our detailed guide.
What Dogs Are Most at Risk if They Consume Toxic Foods?
While preventing any dog from ingesting toxic foods is crucial, certain dogs face higher risks.
- Small breeds vs. large breeds: Smaller dogs are more vulnerable due to their lower body weight, especially when exposed to substances like chocolate.
- Puppies: Younger dogs possess less developed digestive and immune systems, putting them at greater risk from certain substances, including raw dog food.
- Elderly dogs: Older dogs may face higher risks due to existing health conditions. For example, dogs with other health problems should not be fed raw dog food.
- Dogs with pre-existing conditions: Many pre-existing health issues, such as diabetes or kidney disease, can significantly increase a dog’s risk. For more on what fruits can’t dogs have, consult our resource on what fruits can t dogs have.
How to Prevent Dogs from Eating Toxic Foods
Although accidents sometimes happen, you can take several proactive steps to minimize the risk of your beloved pup consuming unsafe human food.
1. Store Foods Out of Reach
Ensure your dog cannot access any toxic food. Keep dangerous items on shelves that are too high for your dog to reach or securely locked away in cabinets they cannot open.
2. Avoid Feeding Dogs from Your Plate
Do not feed your dog from your plate or in the kitchen while you are cooking, even if you intend to give them a safe treat. It is safest to only give your pup treats specifically formulated for dogs.
3. Educate Family Members and Guests
Educate all family members, including children, and any guests about the importance of not sneaking food to your dog, no matter how tempting it may be.
4. Be Careful During Holidays
Exercise extra caution during holidays, as the busy atmosphere can make it easy to lower your guard while cooking.
If your precautions fail and your dog eats something toxic, be prepared to act quickly. Keep contact information readily available for emergency veterinarians who are accessible 24/7, including on holidays, or for poison control centers.
What To Do if Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
If your dog ingests toxic food, seek help as quickly as possible.
It’s essential to be familiar with the symptoms of food toxicity so you can promptly recognize if your dog has consumed something harmful. Symptoms vary depending on the substance ingested but can include listlessness, distress, pain, vomiting, bloody stools, and a bloated stomach that feels hard to the touch (which can indicate a life-threatening condition if not treated).
If you observe these symptoms, follow these steps:
- Call your veterinarian or poison control right away. Timing is critical. Treatments are typically more successful and hospitalization shorter if a dog receives prompt help.
- Be ready with all important information, such as the type of food eaten, the estimated amount consumed, and the time of ingestion.
- Avoid home remedies unless specifically suggested by your veterinarian. Remedies can vary based on the ingested substance, and even inducing vomiting can be harmful in some cases.
Conclusion: Keeping Your Canine Companion Safe and Healthy
Navigating the world of human foods and understanding what foods can I not feed my dog can be challenging, especially with the added complexities of household toxins and a dog’s sometimes indiscriminate tastes. However, by adhering to this guide and remaining vigilant, you can significantly protect your dog from foods that could harm them.
The good news is that there are numerous foods that are both safe and healthy for your dog to enjoy! Experiment to discover which safe options on our list your dog loves, and offer them as well-deserved treats. If you ever have any doubts about a particular food, always consult with your veterinarian. Being proactive and informed is the best way to ensure your canine companion lives a long, healthy, and happy life by your side.
References
- “Top 10 dog poisons,” Hilary Parker (5/2023), WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/top-10-dog-poisons
- “What happens if a dog eats chocolate?” (10/2023), Colorado State University, https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu/vth/animal-health/why-is-chocolate-bad-for-dogs/
- “Fruits and vegetables dogs can or can’t eat,” (3/2024), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/
- “What to do if your dog drinks alcohol,” Jerry Klein (7/2023), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/vets-corner/is-alcohol-dangerous-for-dogs/
- “Can dogs eat apples?” Hector Joy (12/2022), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/can-dogs-eat-apples
- “Can dogs eat plums?” Katie Koschalk (7/2023), Chewy, https://be.chewy.com/nutrition-pet-diet-tips-can-dogs-eat-plums/
- “Avocado (Persea spp) Toxicosis in Animals,” Cristine Hayes (9/2024), Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/avocado-persea-spp-toxicosis-in-animals
- “People foods to avoid feeding your pets,” (n.d.), ASPCA, https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
- “People foods dogs can and can’t eat,” (3/2024), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/human-foods-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/
- “Can dogs eat nuts?” Amanda Ardente (1/2023), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-nuts
- “Can dogs drink milk?” Sandra C. Mitchell (1/2024), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-drink-milk
- “Can dogs have nutmeg?” Barri J. Morrison (11/2023), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/nutmeg-safe-dogs
- “Onion, garlic, chive, and leek poisoning in dogs,” Renee Schmid et al. (2024), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/onion-garlic-chive-and-leek-toxicity-in-dogs
- “Can dogs eat tomatoes?” Anna Burke (10/2024), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-tomatoes/
- “Can dogs eat potatoes?” Katherine Ripley (11/2023), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-potatoes/
- “What to do if your dog eats a cigarette butt,” (6/2023), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-ate-cigarette-butt/
- “Dough & dogs: Why it’s bad and what you can do,” Lisa Goldstein (7/2024), Preventive Vet, https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/dough-is-toxic-to-dogs
- “Rhubarb,” (n.d.), Pet Poison Helpline, https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/rhubarb/
- “Can dogs drink carbonated water?” Heather Logue (n.d.), Rover, https://www.rover.com/blog/can-dogs-drink-carbonated-water/
- “What fruits can dogs eat?” Ellen Malmanger (2/2024), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/what-fruits-can-dogs-eat
- “Can dogs have green beans?” Anna Burke (8/2022), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-have-green-beans/
- “About pet food safety,” (4/2024), CDC, https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/pet-food-safety.html
