Knowing what your dog can and can't eat could save their life. Some everyday human foods are perfectly safe — even healthy — for dogs, while others can cause serious illness or death within hours. This guide covers the foods dogs can enjoy, the ones to avoid, and the ones that require an immediate trip to the vet. When in doubt, don't feed it — and if your dog eats something toxic, call your vet or the nearest emergency animal hospital straight away.
🚨 Emergency: If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
Don't wait for symptoms. Contact your vet or emergency animal hospital immediately. Have the packaging or food item ready so you can tell them exactly what was eaten, how much, and when. Time is critical — the sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome. Do NOT try to make your dog vomit unless specifically instructed by a vet.
☠️ TOXIC — Take Your Dog to the Vet Immediately
These foods are dangerous or potentially fatal to dogs. If your dog eats any of these, seek veterinary help immediately — don't wait for symptoms to appear.
| Food | Why It's Dangerous |
| 🍫 Chocolate | Contains theobromine and caffeine. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous. Can cause vomiting, rapid heartbeat, seizures, and death. Even small amounts of dark chocolate are an emergency. |
| 🍇 Grapes & Raisins | Can cause sudden kidney failure — even a single grape can be toxic to some dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. There is no known safe amount. |
| 🧅 Onions & Garlic | All forms (raw, cooked, powdered, dehydrated) damage red blood cells, causing anaemia. Garlic is 5x more toxic than onions. Symptoms may not appear for several days. Includes leeks, shallots, and chives. |
| 🍬 Xylitol (Birch Sugar) | Found in sugar-free gum, lollies, peanut butter, toothpaste, and baked goods. Causes a massive insulin release leading to dangerously low blood sugar, liver failure, and death. Extremely toxic — even tiny amounts. |
| 🥜 Macadamia Nuts | Cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, hyperthermia, and inability to walk. Symptoms usually appear within 12 hours. Combined with chocolate, they're even more dangerous. |
| 🫘 Cooked Bones | Cooked bones splinter into sharp fragments that can puncture the stomach or intestines, cause choking, or create life-threatening blockages. Chicken and fish bones are especially dangerous when cooked. |
| 🍺 Alcohol | Dogs are far more sensitive to alcohol than humans. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, difficulty breathing, coma, and death. This includes beer, wine, spirits, and foods cooked with alcohol. |
| ☕ Caffeine | Found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and some medications. Causes restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and seizures. No safe amount for dogs. |
| 🫒 Avocado | Contains persin, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. The large pit is also a serious choking and blockage hazard. All parts of the avocado plant are toxic. |
| 🌰 Nutmeg | Contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, disorientation, high blood pressure, seizures, and abdominal pain. |
⚠️ Important: Hidden Sources of Xylitol
Xylitol (also listed as birch sugar or E967) is increasingly common in human foods. Always check labels on: peanut butter, sugar-free gum and mints, sugar-free baked goods, some vitamins and supplements, toothpaste, and some medications. If a product says "sugar-free," check the ingredients before giving any to your dog.
⚠️ AVOID — Foods Dogs Should Not Eat
These foods won't necessarily require an emergency vet visit in tiny amounts, but they can cause illness, discomfort, or health problems. Best to keep them away from your dog entirely.
| Food | Why to Avoid |
| 🥛 Milk & Dairy (large amounts) | Many dogs are lactose intolerant. Large amounts of milk, cream, or ice cream can cause diarrhoea, gas, and vomiting. Small amounts of plain yoghurt and cheese are usually fine. |
| 🧂 Salty Foods | Excessive salt can cause sodium poisoning — symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, and seizures. Avoid chips, pretzels, and heavily salted foods. |
| 🍭 Sugary Foods | Can lead to obesity, dental problems, and diabetes over time. Lollies, cakes, and sugary snacks provide no nutritional benefit and can cause stomach upset. |
| 🌽 Corn on the Cob | The corn itself is fine, but the cob is a major choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages that require surgery. Always remove corn from the cob first. |
| 🍑 Stone Fruit Pits | Peach, plum, cherry, and apricot pits contain cyanide compounds and are choking/blockage hazards. The fruit flesh is safe in small amounts — just remove the pit completely. |
| 🥓 Fatty Foods & Trimmings | Large amounts of fat can trigger pancreatitis — a painful and potentially life-threatening condition. Avoid giving fatty meat trimmings, bacon grease, or deep-fried foods. |
| 🌶 Spicy Foods | Can cause stomach pain, diarrhoea, gas, and excessive thirst. Dogs' digestive systems aren't designed for chilli, pepper, or hot spices. |
| 🍄 Wild Mushrooms | While shop-bought mushrooms are generally safe, wild mushrooms can be deadly. If your dog eats a wild mushroom, treat it as an emergency — some toxic varieties cause liver failure within hours. |
| 🫚 Raw Yeast Dough | Expands in the stomach causing bloating and pain. The fermentation process also produces alcohol, which is toxic. Can be life-threatening in large amounts. |
| 🥝 Persimmons, Rhubarb & Star Fruit | Persimmon seeds cause intestinal blockages. Rhubarb leaves contain oxalates that damage kidneys. Star fruit can cause kidney failure in dogs with existing kidney issues. |
✅ SAFE — Foods Dogs Can Eat
These foods are safe and even nutritious for most dogs. Always introduce new foods gradually and in moderation. Treats and extras should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily diet.
🥩 Proteins
Lean protein, easy to digest. Remove skin and bones. Great for sensitive stomachs. Portion: Can make up a regular part of their diet — a few tablespoons for small dogs, up to half a cup for large dogs per meal.
Rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins. Choose lean cuts and cook without seasoning. Portion: Feed as part of a balanced meal — a few tablespoons for small dogs, up to half a cup for large dogs. Too much red meat can be rich on the stomach.
Lean protein with tryptophan. Remove skin and bones. No seasoning. Portion: Similar to chicken — a regular part of meals is fine. A few tablespoons for small dogs, up to half a cup for large dogs.
Good protein source, rich in B12 and zinc. A great option for dogs with chicken allergies. Portion: Can be a regular protein source. Trim visible fat as lamb can be fattier than chicken.
Very lean, high in iron. Excellent novel protein for dogs with food allergies. Portion: Can be a regular protein source — treat like any other lean meat.
Packed with omega-3 for skin, coat, and brain health. Always cook thoroughly — raw salmon can contain parasites. Portion: 1-2 times per week is ideal. A few small pieces for small dogs, up to 100g for large dogs.
Omega-3 powerhouse with calcium from soft bones. Low mercury. One of the best fish for dogs. Portion: Small dogs: half a tin per week. Medium dogs: one tin per week. Large dogs: 1-2 tins per week.
Complete protein with every essential amino acid. Scrambled or boiled — no oil or butter needed. Portion: 1 egg per day for medium/large dogs is fine. Small dogs: half an egg. Too many can add excess calories.
Nature's multivitamin — rich in vitamin A, B12, iron, and copper. Portion: Small amounts only — no more than 5% of their diet. A thumbnail-sized piece for small dogs, a tablespoon for large dogs, a few times per week. Too much vitamin A can be toxic over time.
🥕 Vegetables
Great for teeth, low calorie, rich in beta-carotene. Wash thoroughly and cut to an appropriate size to avoid choking. Raw or cooked — both are fine. Portion: A few baby carrots or slices daily is fine for most dogs. A great low-calorie everyday snack.
Packed with fibre, vitamins A, B6, and C. Peel and cook before serving — raw sweet potato is hard to digest, and the skin can be tough on their stomach. Portion: A tablespoon for small dogs, up to a quarter cup for large dogs. Feed a few times per week — too much can cause vitamin A buildup over time.
Brilliant for digestion — helps with both diarrhoea and constipation. Use plain cooked pumpkin or tinned puree — not pie filling. Remove the skin and seeds before cooking. Portion: 1-2 teaspoons for small dogs, 1-2 tablespoons for large dogs. Safe to feed daily in small amounts — brilliant for digestive regularity.
Low calorie, high fibre. Great for dogs on a diet. Serve plain — no salt or butter. Portion: A small handful daily is fine. One of the best low-calorie treats — you can be generous with these.
Rich in vitamins C and K. Portion: Small amounts only — broccoli should be no more than 10% of their daily intake. A few small florets is plenty. Too much causes gas and stomach irritation.
Low calorie, hydrating, and crunchy. Wash well and cut into appropriate-sized pieces. Peel if your dog has a sensitive stomach. Portion: A few slices daily is perfectly fine. Very low calorie so you can be generous. Perfect summer snack.
Good source of protein, vitamins A, B, and K. Frozen peas make a great training treat. Portion: A small handful as a snack or mixed through food. Don't overdo it — too many can cause gas.
Rich in iron and vitamins. Portion: Moderation is key — a few leaves mixed through food occasionally. High in oxalates which can affect kidneys in large amounts. Not ideal as a daily food — treat as an occasional addition.
Very low calorie, rich in vitamins. Raw or cooked — a great filler for dogs watching their weight. Portion: A few slices or chunks daily is fine. Another one you can be generous with due to the low calorie count.
🍎 Fruits
Vitamin C, fibre, and a satisfying crunch. Wash well, remove the core and all seeds — seeds contain small amounts of cyanide. Cut into slices appropriate for your dog's size. Portion: A few slices per day. Apples contain natural sugar, so don't overdo it — especially for overweight dogs.
Potassium, B6, and natural energy. Always remove the peel — it's hard to digest and can cause a blockage. Portion: Moderation — high in sugar. Small dogs: a few thin slices. Medium dogs: half a banana. Large dogs: one banana max. A few times a week, not daily.
Antioxidant superfood. Wash before serving. Great for brain health, especially in senior dogs. Perfect training treat size. Portion: A small handful per day is fine. One of the healthier fruits due to low sugar and high antioxidants.
Hydrating and refreshing. Always remove the rind and any seeds — the rind is tough to digest and can cause intestinal blockage. Great frozen treat on hot days. Portion: A few chunks as a treat. High water content but also contains sugar — keep it to a few pieces at a time.
Vitamin C and antioxidants. Wash thoroughly, remove the stem, and cut into small pieces to avoid choking. Portion: Moderation — contains sugar. 1-2 strawberries for small dogs, 3-4 for large dogs. A few times a week as a treat, not daily.
Vitamins A, B6, C, and E. Peel the skin and remove the pit — the skin is tough to digest, and the pit is a choking hazard that also contains small amounts of cyanide. Portion: Moderation — high in sugar. A few small cubes as an occasional treat. Not an everyday fruit.
Support urinary tract health. Use fresh or unsweetened dried — never cranberry sauce with added sugar. Portion: A few berries or a teaspoon of dried cranberries. Too many can upset the stomach due to acidity.
Vitamin C, copper, and fibre. Wash well, remove seeds and core, cut small. Portion: A few small slices as a treat. Contains natural sugar so feed in moderation.
🥜 Other Safe Foods
Protein and healthy fats. ALWAYS check the label — some brands contain xylitol which is deadly. Choose natural, unsweetened. Portion: Moderation — high in calories and fat. A teaspoon for small dogs, a tablespoon for large dogs. Great in Kongs or as a lick mat treat, but don't overdo it.
Probiotics for gut health, calcium for bones. Use plain, unsweetened — no artificial sweeteners. Portion: A teaspoon for small dogs, a tablespoon for large dogs daily. Some dogs are lactose intolerant — start small and see how they go.
High protein, easy to digest. Great for dogs with upset stomachs. Use plain, full-fat. Portion: A tablespoon for small dogs, a few tablespoons for large dogs. Start small if your dog hasn't had dairy before.
Easy on the stomach. White rice is great for dogs with diarrhoea. Brown rice has more fibre and nutrients. Portion: Can be a regular part of meals mixed with protein — up to a quarter of the meal. Not a complete food on its own.
B vitamins, fibre, and gentle energy. Great for dogs with wheat allergies as an alternative grain. Portion: A tablespoon or two mixed through food. Cook with water, never with milk or sugar. Can be fed regularly.
MCTs for brain and skin health, antibacterial properties. Portion: Start very small — 1/4 teaspoon for small dogs, 1 teaspoon for large dogs per day. Increase gradually. Too much too quickly causes loose stools or diarrhoea.
Natural antibacterial properties, small energy boost. Portion: Very small amounts only — half a teaspoon for small dogs, one teaspoon for large dogs. Use sparingly due to sugar content. Not for diabetic dogs or puppies under 12 months.
Rich in collagen, glucosamine, and minerals. Supports joints, gut, and immune health. Make sure it contains no onion or garlic. Portion: Can be fed daily — pour over food or serve as a drink. A few tablespoons for small dogs, up to half a cup for large dogs. One of the safest and most beneficial additions to any dog's diet.
🔍 Common Dog Food Allergies
Food allergies and intolerances are surprisingly common in dogs. The most common food allergens for dogs are:
- Beef — The most common food allergen in dogs, despite being safe for most
- Chicken — Second most common allergen. Symptoms include itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive issues
- Dairy — Many dogs are lactose intolerant to varying degrees
- Wheat & Gluten — Can cause itchy skin, chronic ear infections, and digestive problems
- Soy — A common allergen found in many commercial dog foods
- Eggs — Less common but can cause reactions in some dogs
- Lamb — Once considered hypoallergenic, but allergies have become more common
- Corn — Can trigger allergic reactions and is a common filler in cheaper dog foods
Signs of a Food Allergy in Dogs:
- Persistent itching, especially around the face, ears, paws, and belly
- Chronic ear infections that keep coming back
- Red, irritated skin or hot spots
- Excessive licking or chewing of paws
- Recurring digestive issues — vomiting, diarrhoea, gas
- Hair loss or dull coat
- Watery eyes or runny nose
What to do: If you suspect a food allergy, see your vet. They may recommend an elimination diet — feeding a single novel protein and carbohydrate for 8-12 weeks to identify the trigger. Don't try to diagnose food allergies on your own, as the symptoms overlap with environmental allergies and other conditions.
📋 Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
☠️ TOXIC
Vet Immediately
- Chocolate
- Grapes & Raisins
- Onions & Garlic
- Xylitol
- Macadamia Nuts
- Cooked Bones
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Avocado
- Nutmeg
⚠️ AVOID
Not Worth the Risk
- Milk (large amounts)
- Salty Foods
- Sugary Foods
- Corn Cobs
- Stone Fruit Pits
- Fatty Trimmings
- Spicy Foods
- Wild Mushrooms
- Raw Yeast Dough
- Rhubarb Leaves
✅ SAFE
In Moderation
- Chicken, Beef, Lamb
- Salmon & Sardines
- Eggs
- Carrots & Pumpkin
- Apples & Bananas
- Blueberries
- Peanut Butter*
- Rice & Oats
- Yoghurt
- Sweet Potato
*Always xylitol-free
🏥 When to Call the Vet
- Immediately: If your dog eats chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, or anything from the toxic list
- Immediately: If your dog shows symptoms like vomiting, seizures, difficulty breathing, collapse, or extreme lethargy after eating anything unusual
- Within 24 hours: If your dog has persistent vomiting or diarrhoea after eating something
- Schedule a visit: If you notice ongoing signs of food allergies (itching, ear infections, digestive issues)
Save your vet's emergency number and your nearest after-hours emergency animal hospital number in your phone right now. In an emergency, every minute counts.
🐾 Keep Your Dog Safe & Identifiable
Accidents happen — dogs get into things they shouldn't, and sometimes they escape while feeling unwell. Make sure your dog always wears an up-to-date ID tag with your contact details. A Dogsy & Co QR Smart Tag lets anyone who finds your dog instantly access your contact information by scanning the QR code — no app needed. It's the fastest way to get a lost dog home. Browse our full range of QR Smart Tags and Classic Dog Tags.
Want to make healthy homemade treats for your dog using safe ingredients? Check out our recipe collections: Dog Meals, Dog Snacks, and Dog Treats — all made with dog-safe ingredients your pup will love.
📷 Images are for illustration purposes only and may show foods in their whole, unprepared state. Always follow the preparation instructions in this guide — peel, wash, deseed, and cut foods as directed before feeding to your dog.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every dog is different — what's safe for one dog may not be safe for another, especially dogs with existing health conditions. Always consult your vet if you're unsure about feeding your dog a particular food, and seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog eats something toxic.
