We get it. It's hard to resist those big eyes staring up at you and the soft, gentle cries of a dog who just wants a taste of what's on your plate. But as tempting as it is to feed Fido table scraps, there are plenty of reasons it's not a great idea. For starters, you don't want to reward begging behavior. Treats are meant to reinforce positive behaviors, so save those for situations when your pet has done something good.
Second, not everything you enjoy eating is actually good for your dog. Plenty of people foods can make your animals sick; some very seriously. Take a look at the list below for the top toxic foods for dogs, which you should never feed your pooch—no matter how nicely they ask.
RELATED: These Were the ASPCA's Top 10 Pet Toxins for Cats and Dogs in 2021
Infographic showing foods that are toxic to dogs
Credit: Daily Paws / Corinne Mucha
Alcohol
It doesn't matter if they're over 21 in dog years—alcohol is toxic to pets. It doesn't take much alcohol for an animal to develop alcohol poisoning, according to Renee Schmid, DVM, DABVT, DABT, a veterinarian toxicologist with Pet Poison Helpline. If your pooch sneaks a sip from your glass or a spill on the floor, be sure to watch for signs of poisoning like confusion, difficulty walking and standing, and lethargy. Even a small amount of beer, wine, liquor, or other types of alcohol can be detrimental for a pup's health, so be sure to keep their paws far away from your Claws.
RELATED: Bottoms Up: Busch Concocts Special Brew to Commemorate National Dog Day
Caffeine
Speaking of drinks, coffee, tea, soda, and other caffeinated drinks should also be kept away from your pets. Dogs are more sensitive to caffeine than humans, and while a couple licks likely isn't enough to cause poisoning, large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst, abnormal heart rhythm, and seizures. If your pooch is known to eat just about anything, keep your tea bags, coffee beans, and chocolate-covered espresso beans well out of reach.
Xylitol
Even small amounts of this artificial sweetener, which is toxic to cats and dogs, can cause low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, or death. Xylitol can be found as a sugar substitute in baked goods, chewing gum, vitamins, and some sugarless brands of peanut butter. Xylitol poisoning can occur quickly, so if you suspect your dog has ingested any, be sure to contact your veterinarian right away.
Avocados
We all love our avocado toast and guacamole, but avocados are toxic to dogs. This is because the fruit contains a toxin called persin, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets. Persin is most concentrated in the leaves, skin, and pit of avocados, but it can still be present in the flesh, so it's best to avoid the fruit entirely. Avocado pits are also choking hazards for dogs, so be sure to discard them safely.
Some dog foods may include ingredients derived from the flesh of the avocado like avocado oil or avocado meal, but don't be alarmed! These are safe because the amount of avocado is a small, nontoxic ingredient in your pet's food.
Garlic and Onions
Garlic, onions, chives, and leeks belong to the genus Allium, which is toxic to dogs. Whether they're raw or used as an ingredient (even in powdered form, as the Allium is more concentrated), these should always be kept away from your pooch. When these foods are consumed, they may cause a dog's red blood cells to rupture and damage important organs. Gastrointestinal upset or even death can occur.
Macadamia Nuts
In general, all nuts should be kept away from your dog because of their high fat and salt content and risk of choking. But most nuts, like cashews, peanuts, or almonds, won't harm your pup if he happens to nab one from under the couch. Macadamia nuts, however, could. Dogs may be the only species susceptible to macadamia nut toxicity. Some dogs show signs such as being in a trance-like state, fainting, vomiting, or tremors. The signs might disappear without treatment, but some dogs may need veterinary intervention.
Mustard Seeds
Never feed dogs mustard. The condiment is made from mustard seeds, which contain toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal issues. This means all types of mustard should be avoided, including yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, honey mustard, and mustard sauces. If your pup accidentally licks a little bit of mustard off your plate, it's unlikely to be an issue, but ingesting too much may lead to vomiting and gastroenteritis. Mustard greens may also cause severe stomach upset.
Grapes and Raisins
While they may be a healthy snack for us humans, grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause sudden kidney failure. Even just one grape can cause serious issues in small dog breeds. Veterinarians aren't sure why the fruit is so toxic, but they advise grapes should never be given as treats. If your pup accidentally eats a grape or two, contact your veterinarian and be sure to watch for symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration.
Apricot, Cherry, and Peach Pits
The stems and leaves of apricots, cherries, and peaches contain small amounts of cyanide (so do apple seeds). One munch is probably not harmful, but too many may cause a problem. Nix the pits, too; they also contain cyanide and could present a choking hazard. If you're looking for food you can safely share with your dog, many vegetables or fruits are usually good options, but it's best to peel and cut them up into bite-size pieces to get rid of those more harmful components.
RELATED: What Fruit Can Dogs Eat? These Are the Best Choices to Share With Your Pup
Chocolate
It may be the perfect sweet treat for humans, but chocolate is one of the most toxic foods for dogs. Chocolate poisoning is caused by the caffeine and theobromine found in chocolate, which can cause cardiovascular and neurological issues in dogs.
Keep in mind that smaller dogs face greater risk of chocolate toxicity than larger ones do because it takes less chocolate to affect them negatively. A small dog weighing under 10 pounds can only tolerate the equivalent of one Hershey kiss before it becomes an emergency situation. And the type of chocolate matters, too. Dark chocolate is a lot more toxic for dogs than milk chocolate or white chocolate.
What To Do if Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
If you think your dog has eaten something toxic, the first thing to do is stay calm, advises Marty Becker, DVM. Below are more steps Becker recommends taking to help your potentially poisoned dog before things get worse.
Check forSigns of Poisoning
If your pet is not showing any serious signs of illness as described below, contact your regular vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) to determine if he needs to be seen by a vet or treated at home. Your vet may tell you to induce vomiting by giving your dog a 3 percent hydrogen peroxide dose (1 teaspoon per 5 pounds of body weight), but this should only be done if your vet recommends it.
Examine Your Dog's Vomit for Clues
Many substances first cause stomach upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. Examine the vomit for evidence of chewed packaging, food, and other important clues. Many poisonings progress to weakness and depression or nervous stimulation, including tremors and seizures. Pets may stop eating and drinking or may drink excessive amounts, which could suggest liver or kidney involvement. Rapid or slow breathing, with changes in tongue and gum color—from pink to white, blue, or brown—is important to note.
RELATED: What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Weird (and Possibly Dangerous)
Determine if You Need To Take Emergency Action
If your pet is having difficulty breathing, having seizures, or is bleeding or unconscious, immediately go to your regular vet or an emergency clinic. Take any evidence, including vomit. This information is key to helping your veterinarian save your pet.
A version of this article, written by Steve Dale, CAB, first appeared in Happy Paws Fall/Winter 2019.
FAQs
10 Toxic Human Foods Dogs Should Never Eat? ›
Common foods that are toxic and can potentially kill dogs include; grapes, raisins, avocados, chocolate, xylitol (an artificial sweetener), fruit stones and pips (including apple cores and plums), onion, garlic, macadamia nuts, raw eggs, alcohol, caffeine, bread dough, liver, raw fish, milk and cheese.
What's the worst human food for dogs? ›- Chocolate and Caffeine. It's a pretty well-known fact that chocolate is harmful to dogs. ...
- Grapes and Raisins. ...
- Alcohol and Raw Bread Dough. ...
- Xylitol. ...
- Onions and Garlic. ...
- Other Foods Harmful to Dogs.
Common foods that are toxic and can potentially kill dogs include; grapes, raisins, avocados, chocolate, xylitol (an artificial sweetener), fruit stones and pips (including apple cores and plums), onion, garlic, macadamia nuts, raw eggs, alcohol, caffeine, bread dough, liver, raw fish, milk and cheese.
Can dogs eat cheese? ›Cheese can be given as an occasional treat in moderation, alongside a healthy diet. If your dog manages to eat a whole block or other large amount of cheese, they may vomit. Keep an eye on them, and call your vet for advice if they become unwell.
What foods can dogs not tolerate? ›- Chocolate. Chocolate contains a very toxic substance called methylxanthines, which are stimulants that can stop a dog's metabolic process. ...
- Avocados. ...
- Onions and Garlic. ...
- Grapes and Raisins. ...
- Milk and other Dairy Products. ...
- Macadamia Nuts. ...
- Sugary foods and drinks. ...
- Caffeine.
Are Eggs Good for Dogs? Eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, Eggs are a great source of nutrition for your canine companion. They are high in protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and fatty acids that help support your dog inside and out. Remember that eggs are only as good as the chicken they come from.
Can dogs eat peanut butter? ›Dogs can eat – and many really enjoy – peanut butter. But beware, some peanut butter brands contain an ingredient called xylitol, which is toxic to dogs and even eating small amounts can be fatal. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is often used in foods to keep the product sugar-free.
What are human foods that dogs love? ›- Peanut Butter. When it comes to human foods that dogs love, peanut butter tends to top the list. ...
- Pumpkin. Pumpkin is another easy dog treat that you can use to make your own dog treats. ...
- White Rice. ...
- Baby Carrots. ...
- Salmon. ...
- Chicken. ...
- Eggs. ...
- Cheese.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Apple seeds.
- Apricot pits.
- Avocados.
- Cherry pits.
- Candy (particularly chocolate—which is toxic to dogs, cats, and ferrets—and any candy containing the toxic sweetener Xylitol)
- Chives.
- Coffee (grounds, beans, and chocolate-covered espresso beans)
Apples, bananas, strawberries, oranges, blueberries, pears, peaches, coconuts, and watermelons are all safe for your dog.
Can dogs have ice cream? ›
Unfortunately, although it may be tempting to share your cone with your four-legged friend, it's best to avoid giving ice cream to dogs.
Can dogs eat popcorn? ›Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. Buttered popcorn or popcorn with other toppings is not safe for your dog on a regular basis, although eating a few dropped pieces here and there probably won't hurt them.
Can dogs eat bread? ›The short answer to the question “can dogs eat bread?” is yes. Dogs can safely eat bread in much the same way as humans—in moderation. Plain white and wheat bread are generally safe for dogs to eat, provided they don't have any allergies, and it usually does not cause any stomach upset.
Can dogs eat banana? ›Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They're high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog's main diet.
Can dogs eat tuna? ›But can dogs eat tuna? The answer is no. You shouldn't feed your canine companion the saltwater fish because it could lead to a number of different health problems.
Can dogs eat hot dogs? ›Because they contain so many added ingredients that are not healthy for dogs, hot dogs are not a good choice for your pooch. At a cookout, if you want to give your dog a safe treat, it's best to give them some plain beef, pork, or chicken that has no salt or other seasoning on it.
Why can't dogs have pork? ›Eating raw or undercooked pork is not safe for dogs or humans due to the parasite trichinella spiralis larvae, which can cause a parasite infection known as trichinosis. An infection transmitted by pork meat, it can occur when a dog eats the muscles of animals infected with the trichinella parasites.
Can dogs eat pizza? ›The bottom line is that you should never give pizza to your dog, whether as a meal or a treat. They might experience a slight stomach upset if they're sensitive to dairy, due to the excess fat, but overall in many cases dogs are fine.
Can dogs eat spaghetti? ›Use plain pasta made from simple ingredients to assure your dog remains healthy. Egg noodles, whole wheat spaghetti, or lentil-based macaroni alongside raw or cooked vegetables should be fine for your dog. Refrain from using any alliums (like chives, garlic cloves, and onions) or tomato sauce.
Is it good to crack an egg in dog food? ›Is it a good idea for my dog to eat a cracked raw egg over dog food? Yes, it is. It contains many beneficial components like protein, vitamins, and fatty and amino acids, making it a nutritional ingredient for homemade treats. But just as with any other good thing, moderation is key.
Can dogs eat oatmeal? ›
Is Oatmeal Good for Dogs? Oatmeal is high in fiber and contains a plethora of nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants. “Served in moderation, oatmeal can benefit a dog in a variety of ways,” says Dr. Carly Fox of New York City's Animal Medical Center.
Can dogs drink milk? ›Milk is a safe treat in small quantities. A few tablespoons of cow's milk or goat's milk on an occasional basis can be a nice reward for your dog. But, you should probably hold off on offering your dog an entire bowl in one sitting, as it can cause unpleasant reactions, including diarrhea, vomiting, and loose stools.
Can dogs have Cheerios as a treat? ›Can dogs eat Cheerios safely? Dogs can eat Cheerios without getting sick in most cases, but you should probably feed your dog something else instead if you want to give him a treat. “Cheerios are a fortified cereal marketed as a healthy breakfast option, but they are not something we should be offering our dog,” Dr.
Can dogs eat yogurt? ›Can most dogs eat yogurt? Yes, but that doesn't necessarily mean that they should. While yogurt is not toxic to dogs, many canines might have trouble digesting it because it contains lactose. And plenty of pups have trouble with foods that contain lactose, such as milk.
Are carrots good for dogs? ›Are carrots safe for me to feed my dog?” While some of the vegetables we love are unsafe to feed our dogs, carrots are a perfectly safe and nutritious treat for your dog.
What smelly foods do dogs love? ›The authors of the study found that the odor of food (i.e. meat) was usually preferred by the dogs over the other smells. Their results also suggest that dogs might find lavender pleasant, while also finding blackberry, blueberry, peppermint, castor, linalool, and rose interesting to smell.
What foods make a dog happy? ›Chicken, beef, lamb, duck, and fish provide proteins to a dog's diet which are made up of building blocks called amino acids. These amino acids aid a dog's overall growth and development by providing them with the positive energy that dogs thrive off.
What foods make dogs feel better? ›- Chicken and Rice. Chicken and rice are prime ingredients in many dog foods, and these mild foods sit well on upset canine stomachs. ...
- Shredded Chicken. Shredded chicken is easy on upset stomachs and acts as a huge eating incentive for dogs with decreased appetites. ...
- Pumpkin. ...
- Bone Broth. ...
- Baby Food.
Many popular veggies like onions, garlic, tomatoes, and chives are poisonous to dogs and should be fenced off in a way that prevents your furry friend from getting into them. The same goes for some plants like ivy.
What foods cause seizures in dogs? ›Food that causes seizures. According to the ASPCA, caffeine, dark chocolate, mushrooms, theobromine, ethanol, and xylitol can cause your dog's seizures.
What animal is killed the most for food? ›
After Chicken, Fish, Cattle, and Ducks, the Most Commonly Slaughtered Animals Are Pigs at 1.3 Billion Annually (FAO)
What are 5 foods good for dogs? ›In addition to these superfoods, there are many natural, fresh, wholesome foods that dogs and humans can thrive on, including apples, green beans, papaya, leafy greens, liver and hearts, eggs, oats, bananas, wheat grass, cranberries, nuts, pumpkin seeds, coconut oil, parsley, wheat germ, apple cider vinegar, and many ...
Can dogs eat rice? ›The answer is yes. Rice is an ingredient sometimes found in commercial dog foods. Many pet owners feed white rice to their sick dog. One of the reasons white rice is the chosen grain for a dog with an upset stomach is that it's easy to digest, quick to prepare, and low in fiber.
Can dogs eat cucumbers? ›Are Cucumbers Safe for Dogs? Cucumbers are perfectly safe for dogs to eat, and offer a low-calorie, crunchy snack that many dogs love. Cucumbers only contain about 8 calories per one-half cup of slices, compared to the 40 calories in a single medium biscuit, and are very low in sodium and fat.
Are eggs good for dogs? ›Are Eggs Good for Dogs? Eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, Eggs are a great source of nutrition for your canine companion. They are high in protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and fatty acids that help support your dog inside and out.
Can dogs eat potatoes? ›White potatoes belong to the nightshade family of vegetables, which includes tomatoes; like tomatoes, raw potatoes contain solanine, a compound that is toxic to some dogs. However, cooking a potato reduces the levels of solanine. If you do feed your dog a potato, it should be baked or boiled, with nothing added to it.
Are bananas good for dogs? ›Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They're high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog's main diet.
Is it OK to give my dog scrambled egg every day? ›Yes, dogs can eat eggs. Although it is not recommended to feed your dog eggs every day, they should not cause harm as the occasional treat. While eggs are full of nutrients, these are not necessary for your pet's diet as they will get everything they need from a high quality, complete dog food.
Is Sweet Potato good for dogs? ›Sweet potato is a safe, healthy, and natural treat for dogs, offering a range of health benefits (and a sweet flavor they'll likely love). For example, sweet potatoes support a healthy digestive system thanks to their high dietary fiber content. They're also low in fat and contain essential vitamins like B6, C, and A.
Should dog food be warm or cold? ›You should only feed your dog food that is slightly above their body temperature, or around 101–103 degrees Fahrenheit. Warm food can increase the flavor and aroma, making it more appealing to your pooch.
Is it OK for dogs to eat saltine crackers? ›
Saltine crackers are not toxic to dogs, but they provide little nutritional benefit. In addition, they're high in salt. This can make them unhealthy and even dangerous in large amounts. While one small piece isn't likely to hurt your dog, they risk salt poisoning if they get into an entire package.
Can dogs eat french fries? ›Are French Fries Safe for Dogs? French fries—even saltless—simply aren't the best canine snack for a few reasons, says Thashia Reddy, DVM, a consulting veterinarian with Petcube Online Vet, a telehealth veterinary service. "They're typically high in fat and salt, which isn't good for dogs.