As a pet owner, sharing food with your dog can be tempting, but not all human foods are safe. With this knowledge, you can safely incorporate dog-friendly human foods into your pet’s diet for variety and added nutrition while keeping them away from the dangerous ones. Here’s a list of 10 common foods that are harmful to dogs and 10 that are safe to share. Understanding these can help you avoid health risks and even offer nutritious treats.
10 Foods Your Dog Should Never Eat
Chocolate
Why It’s Dangerous: Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolize effectively. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, and even death in high doses.
Tip: Keep chocolate in closed containers and out of reach.
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Grapes and Raisins
Why It’s Dangerous: These fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
Tip: Be vigilant about foods with hidden raisins, like trail mixes and baked goods.
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Onions and Garlic
Why It’s Dangerous: These contain compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Tip: Avoid sharing foods that might contain onion or garlic powder, which are more concentrated.
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Avocado
Why It’s Dangerous: Avocado contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
Tip: Don’t let dogs nibble on avocado toast or grab fallen pieces.
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Alcohol
Why It’s Dangerous: Even small amounts of alcohol can cause serious health issues in dogs, from vomiting to respiratory failure.
Tip: Avoid setting down any alcoholic beverages within reach.
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Macadamia Nuts
Why It’s Dangerous: These nuts can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and even paralysis.
Tip: Be cautious of baked goods containing macadamia nuts and store them securely.
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Xylitol (Sugar Substitute)
Why It’s Dangerous: This sweetener, found in sugar-free products, can cause rapid insulin release, leading to dangerously low blood sugar.
Tip: Double-check labels on gum, toothpaste, and snacks for xylitol before letting your dog
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Caffeine
Why It’s Dangerous: Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, potentially leading to rapid heart rate, seizures, or death.
Tip: Keep coffee, tea, and energy drinks out of reach, as caffeine in any form is dangerous.
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Bones from Cooked Meat
Why It’s Dangerous: Cooked bones are brittle and can splinter, leading to choking or intestinal injuries.
Tip: Use dog-safe chews instead, as raw bones (if given under supervision) are safer than cooked bones.
Simply Recipes / Lori Rice
Raw Dough (Yeast Dough)
Why It’s Dangerous: When eaten, raw dough can expand in a dog’s stomach, potentially causing bloating and alcohol poisoning as yeast ferments.
Tip: Avoid giving your dog raw dough and keep it well out of reach during baking.
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10 Foods You Can Safely Share with Your Dog
Carrots
Benefits: Great for dental health and low in calories. Carrots are a good source of fiber, vitamin A, and beta-carotene.
Tip: Serve raw for crunchiness or cooked for easier digestion.
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Apples
Benefits: Packed with vitamins A and C, apples also have fiber, which aids in digestion.
Tip: Remove the seeds and core, as they contain cyanide in small amounts.
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Peanut Butter (Unsweetened)
Benefits: Peanut butter provides protein, healthy fats, and vitamins B and E.
Tip: Check for xylitol-free peanut butter, as it’s toxic to dogs.
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Blueberries
Benefits: Full of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K, blueberries make a tasty, low-calorie treat.
Tip: Freeze them for a refreshing snack on hot days.
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Pumpkin
Benefits: Excellent for digestion, pumpkin can help relieve constipation and diarrhea.
Tip: Serve cooked, pure pumpkin (not pie filling) for the best results.
Charlotte Ekker Wiggins
Sweet Potatoes
Benefits: Rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and beta-carotene, sweet potatoes support eye health and immunity.
Tip: Cook and serve plain in small portions, as they’re high in sugar.
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Green Beans
Benefits: A low-calorie snack rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and manganese.
Tip: Serve raw or steamed without salt to avoid sodium overload.
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Bananas
Benefits: Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamins, and fiber.
Tip: Offer in moderation, as they’re high in sugar.
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Plain Greek Yogurt
Benefits: Full of protein, calcium, and probiotics, plain Greek yogurt supports digestive health.
Tip: Avoid flavored yogurts, as they often contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Alex Huang
Salmon (Cooked)
Benefits: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit coat health and reduce inflammation.
Tip: Cook thoroughly and serve in small amounts to avoid parasites and mercury buildup.
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