What Should Dogs Not Eat

Most Dangerous Foods That Dogs Should Never Eat

These foods represent the highest level of danger for dogs and can be fatal even in small amounts. If your dog ingests any of these substances, contact your vet immediately or call the pet poison helpline without delay. You should also be prepared to contact an emergency vet for urgent care. The toxicity of these foods doesn’t depend on your dog’s size alone—even large dogs can suffer severe poisoning from relatively small quantities.

The mechanism of toxicity varies among these foods, but they all share one critical characteristic: they can cause rapid, life-threatening changes in your dog’s body that require immediate veterinary intervention. Time is absolutely crucial when dealing with these toxic foods.

Chocolate, Coffee, and Caffeine

Chocolate tops the list of foods dogs not eat for good reason. It contains theobromine and caffeine, both methylxanthines that dogs metabolize much more slowly than humans. While you might enjoy your morning coffee or evening chocolate treat without issue, these same substances can send your dog’s cardiovascular and nervous systems into overdrive.

Dark chocolate and baking chocolate pose the greatest threat, containing significantly higher concentrations of theobromine than milk chocolate. Even coffee grounds left in a trash can that your dog can access represent a serious danger. The toxic dose can be as low as 20 mg/kg of body weight, but clinical signs often appear at 100-200 mg/kg.

Symptoms of chocolate toxicity progress rapidly and include vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, tremors, seizures, and abnormal heart rhythm. In severe cases, chocolate poisoning can lead to coma and even death. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it becomes—especially dark chocolate, which contains the highest levels of these toxic compounds.

If your dog eats chocolate, don’t wait to see if symptoms develop. Contact your veterinarian or pet poison helpline immediately. The sooner treatment begins, the better your dog’s chances of a full recovery.

Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)

This artificial sweetener, commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy, toothpaste, baked goods, and flavored waters, represents one of the most dangerous substances your dog can consume. Unlike humans, dogs experience a rapid and massive insulin release when they consume xylitol, causing their blood sugar to plummet to life-threatening levels within 10-60 minutes. Xylitol can dangerously disrupt a dog's blood sugar and also interfere with your dog's metabolic process, making it especially hazardous.

The mechanism of xylitol toxicity is particularly insidious. As soon as your dog’s digestive system processes this artificial sweetener, their pancreas floods their bloodstream with insulin. This insulin surge can drop your dog’s blood sugar so low that they lose consciousness, suffer seizures, or fall into a coma. Even worse, at higher doses (above 0.5 g/kg), xylitol can cause liver failure.

To put this in perspective, just one or two pieces of sugar-free gum can be fatal for a small dog. Even large dogs are at serious risk from xylitol consumption. Early symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of coordination, but these can rapidly progress to low blood sugar emergencies and liver damage.

Many dog owners don’t realize how many common household products contain xylitol. Always check labels on sugar-free products, and be especially cautious with items like toothpaste, mouthwash, vitamins, and even some peanut butters that may contain this deadly artificial sweetener.

Grapes and Raisins

Perhaps no other toxic food causes as much confusion among pet owners as grapes and raisins. These seemingly innocent fruits can trigger sudden kidney failure in dogs, and scientists still haven’t identified the exact toxic component responsible. What makes grapes and raisins particularly dangerous is the unpredictable nature of the toxicity—some dogs may consume small amounts without obvious effects, while others develop severe kidney disease from just a few grapes.

The individual sensitivity varies dramatically among dogs, but veterinarians universally recommend zero tolerance for grapes and raisins because the risk is simply too high. As few as 4-5 grapes can cause kidney failure in a small dog, and there’s no way to predict which dogs will be affected or how severe the reaction will be.

All grape products pose the same risk, including grape juice, wine (which also contains alcohol), and any form of raisins. The symptoms typically begin with vomiting and diarrhea within hours of consumption, followed by lethargy and abdominal pain. The real danger emerges 12-24 hours later when kidney failure symptoms develop, including excessive urination followed by decreased urination, and ultimately, complete kidney shutdown.

Recent research suggests tartaric acid might be the culprit, but until scientists definitively identify the toxic component, the safest approach is complete avoidance. If your dog ingests grapes or raisins, seek emergency veterinary care immediately, even if they appear fine initially.

Onions, Garlic, and Allium Plants

The entire allium family—including onions, garlic, chives, leeks, and shallots—contains organosulfur compounds that systematically destroy your dog’s red blood cells. Onions dogs consume can be especially dangerous and should always be avoided, as even small amounts in any form (raw, cooked, powdered, or flakes) are toxic. This process, called Heinz body anemia, develops over several days and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

What makes this particularly dangerous is that the toxic effects are cumulative. Your dog doesn’t need to consume a large amount at once; repeated small exposures to onions or garlic can build up in their system and eventually trigger hemolytic anemia. Dogs may show no immediate symptoms, but over time, the damage to their red blood cells becomes apparent through weakness, lethargy, pale gums, and eventually collapse.

Garlic is approximately five times more potent than onions, meaning even smaller amounts can cause significant red blood cell damage. As little as 5 grams per kilogram of body weight can trigger life-threatening anemia. This is particularly concerning because many prepared foods, seasonings, and even some baby foods contain onion or garlic powder.

Japanese dog breeds appear to be particularly susceptible to allium toxicity, though all dogs are at risk. The delayed onset of symptoms—sometimes appearing several days after consumption—means many owners don’t connect their dog’s illness to the food they consumed earlier.

Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts present a unique toxicity profile among nuts. While scientists haven’t identified the exact toxic mechanism, the clinical syndrome is remarkably consistent: rear limb weakness or temporary paralysis, hyperthermia, vomiting, tremors, and lethargy developing within 12 hours of consumption.

The toxic dose is relatively low—as few as 6 macadamia nuts can cause poisoning in a small dog, while larger dogs may show symptoms after consuming 5-10 nuts. Unlike some other toxic foods where the danger is dose-dependent, macadamia nuts can cause this distinctive syndrome even in moderate amounts.

The good news is that while macadamia nut poisoning is dramatic and concerning, it’s rarely fatal. Most dogs recover within 48 hours with supportive care, though they may require veterinary treatment for pain management and monitoring during recovery. The symptoms can be quite distressing for both dogs and owners, as the rear limb weakness can be severe enough to prevent normal walking.

Foods That Can Cause Serious Health Problems

While these foods may not be immediately fatal, they can cause significant health issues that affect your dog’s quality of life and may lead to chronic conditions requiring ongoing medical management. Consuming too much salt is another risk, as it can contribute to serious health problems in dogs.

Bones (Cooked and Raw)

Contrary to popular belief, not all bones are safe for dogs. Cooked bones, in particular, become brittle and can splinter, creating sharp fragments that can damage your dog’s mouth, throat, and digestive tract. These splinters can cause choking, dental fractures, and intestinal punctures that require emergency surgery.

Raw bones, while less likely to splinter, still present risks including choking hazards, broken teeth, and intestinal blockages. Large weight-bearing bones from cattle can be hard enough to fracture your dog’s teeth, leading to painful dental problems that require veterinary treatment.

The size and type of bone matter significantly. Small bones, regardless of whether they’re cooked or raw, can become lodged in your dog’s throat or intestines. Poultry bones are particularly dangerous because they splinter easily and the fragments are sharp enough to puncture internal organs.

Safe alternatives for dogs who love to chew include specially designed dog chews, antlers, and commercially produced bones that are sized appropriately for your dog and designed to be safely digestible.

High-Fat Foods and Fatty Meat Trimmings

Foods high in fat, including bacon, ham, chicken skin, and fatty meat trimmings, can trigger acute pancreatitis in dogs. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that can range from mild discomfort to a life-threatening emergency requiring intensive veterinary care.

The pancreas produces enzymes that help digest fats, but when overwhelmed by too much fat, it can become inflamed and begin digesting itself. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Severe cases can lead to systemic complications affecting multiple organ systems.

Certain breeds, including Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Cocker Spaniels, are predisposed to pancreatitis and should be especially careful to avoid high-fat foods. Dogs who have experienced pancreatitis before are at increased risk for future episodes.

Even dogs without previous pancreatitis can develop the condition from consuming too much fat. Holiday meals and special occasions often present increased risks as well-meaning family members share fatty treats with pets. The long-term consequences of repeated pancreatitis episodes can include diabetes and chronic digestive problems.

Salt and Salty Foods

Excessive salt consumption can lead to sodium ion poisoning in dogs, causing symptoms ranging from increased thirst and urination to tremors, seizures, and death. Too much salt can quickly overwhelm a dog's system and lead to salt toxicity, making even small amounts dangerous. Dogs require much less sodium than humans, and their kidneys aren’t as efficient at processing large amounts of salt.

Common salty foods that pose risks include chips, pretzels, salted nuts, and even homemade play dough made with salt. The toxic dose is approximately 2-3 grams per kilogram of body weight, but smaller amounts can cause problems in dogs with existing heart or kidney conditions.

Early symptoms of salt poisoning include excessive thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, and diarrhea. As the condition progresses, dogs may develop tremors, seizures, and potentially fatal brain swelling. The dehydration caused by salt poisoning compounds the problem, making rapid veterinary intervention crucial.

Dogs with pre-existing health conditions, particularly heart disease, kidney disease, or high blood pressure, are at increased risk from salty foods. These conditions make it harder for their bodies to process excess sodium, potentially triggering serious complications even from moderate salt intake.

Raw Meat, Eggs, and Fish

While dogs evolved eating raw meat, modern raw diets present several risks that pet owners should understand. Raw or undercooked meat can harbor dangerous bacteria including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can cause serious food poisoning in both dogs and humans who handle the contaminated food.

Raw eggs present additional concerns beyond bacterial contamination. Raw egg whites contain avidin, an enzyme that interferes with biotin absorption, potentially leading to biotin deficiency over time. While occasional raw egg consumption is unlikely to cause problems, regular feeding of raw eggs can contribute to nutritional imbalances. Cooked eggs, on the other hand, can help soothe an upset stomach in dogs and provide a gentle, nutritious source of protein.

Certain fish species pose specific risks, including salmon poisoning disease, which affects dogs in the Pacific Northwest. Raw salmon and other fish can carry parasites that are fatal if untreated. Additionally, some fish species contain high levels of mercury or other toxins that can accumulate in your dog’s system over time. Fish like salmon and sardines are rich in beneficial fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, which support your dog's skin and coat health, but they should be fed safely and in moderation. Plain canned tuna packed in water can be given as an occasional treat, but only in moderation due to concerns about mercury and salt content.

If you choose to feed raw meat to your dog, work with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure proper food safety protocols and nutritional balance. Proper handling, sourcing from reputable suppliers, and appropriate freezing can reduce but not eliminate the risks associated with a raw diet.

Fruits and Vegetables with Toxic Parts

Many fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs in their prepared form become dangerous when dogs consume the wrong parts of the plant. It's important to know which parts of fruits and vegetables dogs eat safely and which should be avoided.

Stone Fruits (Cherries, Apricots, Peaches, Plums)

The pits, stems, and leaves of stone fruits contain cyanogenic glycosides, which release hydrogen cyanide when chewed or digested. Cyanide is a potent cellular toxin that prevents cells from using oxygen effectively, leading to rapid onset of symptoms including difficulty breathing, bright red gums, dilated pupils, and potentially death.

Even the flesh of these fruits, while generally safe in small amounts, can cause stomach upset in some dogs. The bigger concern is the large pits, which present both cyanide toxicity risk and choking hazards. These pits are also hard enough to damage teeth and large enough to cause intestinal blockages.

Signs of cyanide poisoning develop rapidly and include difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, tremors, and collapse. This is a true emergency requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Even if a dog doesn’t chew the pit, the risk of choking or intestinal obstruction makes these fruits dangerous.

If you want to share stone fruits with your dog, remove all pits, stems, and leaves, and offer only small amounts of the flesh as an occasional treat.

Apple Cores and Seeds

While apple flesh is generally safe and nutritious for dogs, apple seeds contain amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside that releases cyanide when digested. A few seeds probably won’t cause problems for most dogs, but larger quantities or regular consumption can lead to cyanide accumulation.

The apple core also presents a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs. The woody texture and size of the core can become lodged in the throat or cause intestinal blockage if swallowed whole.

When sharing apples with your dog, always remove the entire core, including all seeds, and cut the remaining flesh into appropriately sized pieces. This eliminates both the cyanide risk and the choking hazard while allowing your dog to enjoy the nutritional benefits of apples.

Apples are an excellent source of vitamins and fiber for dogs when properly prepared, making them a worthwhile treat when safety precautions are followed.

Tomatoes and Potatoes

Green tomatoes, tomato plants, and green potatoes contain solanine, a toxic compound that can cause gastrointestinal upset, neurological symptoms, and in severe cases, paralysis. Ripe, red tomatoes contain much lower levels of solanine and are generally safe for dogs in small amounts.

Raw potatoes, especially green potatoes or those with green patches, contain higher concentrations of solanine. Cooking significantly reduces solanine levels, making properly prepared potatoes safer for dogs. However, potatoes prepared with butter, oil, or seasonings can still cause digestive upset due to the high fat content.

The leaves, stems, and green parts of both tomato and potato plants are particularly high in solanine and should never be accessible to dogs. Dogs who have access to gardens should be prevented from eating these plant parts.

When offering tomatoes or potatoes to dogs, stick to ripe, red tomatoes or fully cooked potatoes prepared without added fats or seasonings.

Other Household Items Toxic to Dogs

Beyond food items, many common household products found in kitchens can be dangerous to dogs.

Baking Ingredients

Baking powder and baking soda can cause serious problems if consumed in large quantities. The rapid gas production can cause gastric bloat, while the sodium content can lead to electrolyte imbalances. Nutmeg contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, and seizures in dogs.

Vanilla extract often contains significant amounts of alcohol, making it a potential source of alcohol toxicity. Even small amounts can be problematic for dogs, especially smaller breeds.

These ingredients are often stored in low cabinets or left out during baking, making them accessible to curious dogs. Proper storage in dog-proof containers is essential for preventing accidental ingestion.

Human Medications

Many over-the-counter and prescription medications that are safe for humans can be deadly to dogs. Common pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can cause kidney failure, liver damage, and death in dogs. Even medications specifically designed to be “gentle” for humans can be toxic to dogs due to differences in metabolism.

Prescription medications pose even greater risks, as they’re often formulated in doses appropriate for human body weights and metabolic rates. What might be a single therapeutic dose for a human could represent a massive overdose for a dog.

Child-proof containers aren’t necessarily dog-proof, and many dogs are skilled at opening pill bottles or finding dropped medications. Storing all medications in secure locations and immediately cleaning up any spills is crucial for preventing accidental poisoning.

Safe Alternatives and Healthy Dog Treats

Understanding what dogs should not eat is only half the equation—knowing what safe, healthy alternatives you can offer helps satisfy your desire to share tasty treats with your beloved pet. Some people foods dogs enjoy, such as plain popcorn or certain fruits, can be offered as a tasty treat when prepared safely. Additionally, healthy treats like salmon or sardines provide beneficial fatty acids that support your dog's skin, joints, and overall health.

Safe Fruits for Dogs

Apples (with core and seeds removed), bananas, blueberries, watermelon (seedless), cantaloupe, and strawberries are generally safe for dogs in moderation. These fruits provide vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that can benefit your dog’s health.

When offering fruit treats, always wash them thoroughly, remove any seeds, pits, or cores, and cut them into appropriate sizes to prevent choking. Remember that fruits are high in natural sugars, so they should only be given as occasional treats, not regular dietary components.

The 10% rule applies to all treats: treats should comprise no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake to maintain a balanced diet. This helps prevent weight gain and ensures your dog receives proper nutrition from their regular food.

Safe Vegetables for Dogs

Carrots, green beans, sweet potatoes, cucumbers, and broccoli (in small amounts) are excellent vegetable options for dogs. These vegetables can be served raw or cooked, though cooking may make them easier to digest for some dogs.

Raw vegetables provide satisfying crunch and can help clean teeth, while cooked vegetables are often more digestible and may be more appealing to picky dogs. Avoid adding any seasonings, oils, or butter when preparing vegetables for your dog.

Steam or boil vegetables until they’re tender, then allow them to cool completely before offering them to your dog. Cut vegetables into appropriate sizes based on your dog’s size to prevent choking hazards.

Safe Proteins and Other Foods

Cooked lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish (without bones or seasoning) are excellent protein sources for dogs. Plain cooked rice and pasta can provide easily digestible carbohydrates for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Xylitol-free peanut butter is a popular treat, but always verify the ingredient list to ensure it doesn’t contain this deadly artificial sweetener. Plain yogurt and low-fat cheese can be given in small amounts to dogs who tolerate dairy well.

When preparing these foods for your dog, avoid all seasonings, oils, and additives. Simple preparation methods like boiling, steaming, or baking without added ingredients are safest for dogs.

Energy Drinks and Caffeinated Beverages

Energy drinks and caffeinated beverages are extremely toxic to dogs and should never be offered as a treat or left within reach. These drinks contain dangerously high levels of caffeine and other stimulants that can cause rapid and severe health problems in dogs, including alcohol poisoning, liver failure, and even death. When a dog ingests caffeine—whether from energy drinks, coffee grounds, tea bags, or especially dark chocolate—it can lead to symptoms such as gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, and abnormal heart rhythms. In severe cases, caffeine toxicity can damage red blood cells and result in life-threatening complications.

If your dog ingests any amount of an energy drink or caffeinated beverage, contact your vet immediately or call the Pet Poison Helpline for urgent advice. Quick action is critical, as symptoms can escalate rapidly. Dog owners should also avoid feeding their pets people foods that contain caffeine or other toxic ingredients, such as macadamia nuts, grapes and raisins, and raw or undercooked meat, all of which can cause serious harm to a dog’s digestive system and overall health. Many foods that are safe for humans—including milk and dairy products—can cause stomach upset, lactose intolerance, or food poisoning in dogs.

To keep your dog safe, always store energy drinks, coffee, tea, and other caffeinated products well out of reach, and educate family members about the dangers of sharing people foods with pets. Maintaining a balanced diet with dog-safe foods is the best way to support your dog’s health and prevent accidental poisoning from common foods that are toxic to dogs.