Can My Dog Eat This? Food Safety Guide
Search or browse common human foods to see whether your dog can eat them, what to watch out for, and what to do if something goes wrong.
- No
Chocolate
No. Chocolate is toxic to dogs. The darker and more bitter the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.
- No
Grapes and raisins
No. Grapes and raisins can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, and there is no known safe amount.
- No
Onions
No. Onions in any form can damage a dog's red blood cells and cause anemia.
- No
Garlic
No. Garlic is in the onion family and can damage a dog's red blood cells. It is considered more potent than onion.
- No
Xylitol (birch sugar)
No. Xylitol is extremely dangerous for dogs. Even a small amount can cause a life-threatening drop in blood sugar.
- No
Macadamia nuts
No. Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs and can cause weakness, tremors and fever.
- No
Coffee and caffeine
No. Coffee and other sources of caffeine are toxic to dogs.
- With care
Avocado
It is best avoided. A little plain avocado flesh is unlikely to poison a dog, but it is very fatty and the pit is a serious hazard.
- With care
Cheese
Yes, in small amounts, for most dogs. Choose low-fat, plain cheese and use it as an occasional treat.
- With care
Milk
Only in small amounts, and only if your dog tolerates it. Many adult dogs cannot digest lactose well.
- With care
Peanut butter
Yes, as long as it contains no xylitol. Plain, unsalted peanut butter is fine in small amounts.
- With care
Cherries
Only the flesh, and with care. The pits, stems and leaves are dangerous.
- With care
Tomatoes
Ripe, red tomato flesh is generally fine in small amounts. Green tomatoes, stems and leaves should be avoided.
- Yes
Carrots
Yes. Carrots are a healthy, low-calorie treat for most dogs, raw or cooked.
- Yes
Apples
Yes. Apple slices make a good treat, as long as you remove the core and seeds.
- Yes
Blueberries
Yes. Blueberries are a low-calorie treat that most dogs can enjoy.
- Yes
Bananas
Yes, in moderation. Bananas are safe but high in sugar, so keep portions small.
- Yes
Watermelon
Yes. Watermelon flesh is a refreshing treat, as long as you remove the seeds and rind.
- Yes
Strawberries
Yes. Fresh strawberries are a healthy treat in small amounts.
- Yes
Pumpkin
Yes. Plain cooked or canned pumpkin is safe and a good source of fiber.
- Yes
Sweet potatoes
Yes, when cooked and plain. Do not feed raw sweet potato.
- Yes
Eggs
Yes. Fully cooked eggs are a nutritious treat for dogs.
- Yes
Rice
Yes. Plain cooked rice is safe and easy to digest.
- Yes
Cucumber
Yes. Cucumber is a crunchy, very low-calorie treat.
How to read the results
- No Toxic or dangerous. Keep it away from your dog and contact a vet if it is eaten.
- With care Not toxic in itself, but only safe in some forms or small amounts. Read the details.
- Yes Safe for most healthy dogs when prepared plainly and given in sensible amounts.
Treats, including human foods, should make up no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
If your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not wait for symptoms. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).