Safe & Unsafe Foods Every Dog Owner Should Know
We all know the look: those big, hopeful eyes watching every bite you take.
But which human foods are actually safe for dogs — and which can be dangerous?
In this guide, you’ll find what you can share, what you should avoid, and why.
(Ask your vet before adding new foods to your dog’s diet.)
✅ The short answer:
Some human foods are perfectly healthy for dogs in small amounts — but many can cause stomach upset or be downright toxic.
Let’s break it down.
Safe human foods dogs can enjoy
(Plain, unsalted, unseasoned, in moderation)
Fruits (seedless & cut small):
- Apples (no seeds)
- Blueberries
- Bananas
- Watermelon (no rind)
- Strawberries
- Cantaloupe
These are low-calorie, rich in fiber & vitamins — great as treats.
Veggies:
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Cucumber
- Pumpkin (plain, cooked)
- Sweet potato (cooked)
Crunchy veggies can also help clean teeth a bit.
Proteins (plain, cooked):
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Salmon (boneless, fully cooked)
- Eggs (cooked)
Protein adds nutrition, but avoid seasonings, sauces & bones.
Grains & starches:
- Plain rice
- Oatmeal
- Quinoa
- Plain pasta
Great if your dog has an upset stomach (plain rice & chicken classic).
Dairy (small amounts):
- Plain yogurt
- Cottage cheese
Some dogs are lactose‑sensitive — introduce slowly.
Pro tip:
Keep treats (including human foods) under 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
🚫 Unsafe or toxic human foods for dogs
Some foods can cause mild stomach upset; others can be fatal even in small amounts.
Absolutely avoid:
- Chocolate
- Grapes & raisins
- Onions, garlic, leeks, chives
- Macadamia nuts & many other nuts
- Xylitol (often in sugar‑free gum, peanut butter, baked goods)
- Alcohol & coffee
- Raw yeast dough
- Avocado (especially pit & skin)
- Fat trimmings, cooked bones
⚠ Use only with caution (ask your vet):
- Cheese & dairy (lactose sensitivity)
- Peanut butter (check label: must be xylitol‑free)
- Bread & baked goods (empty calories)
Why dogs can’t eat everything we can
- Smaller body size → small dose = big effect
- Some human foods damage dog liver, kidneys, red blood cells
- Dogs’ digestive enzymes differ → e.g., chocolate & grapes become toxic
Tips for safely sharing human foods
✅ Serve plain, cooked (no salt, spices, butter, sauces)
✅ Avoid seeds, pits, cores, bones
✅ Cut small to prevent choking
✅ Introduce one food at a time → watch for upset stomach
✅ Portion size: tiny! Treats shouldn’t replace balanced dog food
FAQ
Can dogs eat spicy food?
No — spices upset digestion; some are toxic.
Raw bones?
Vet‑supervised only; cooked bones always unsafe (splinter risk).
Puppies?
Even stricter: young stomachs, growing bodies → check with vet first.
Printable list idea (Call to Action):
Print our free Safe & Unsafe Foods for Dogs list — keep it on your fridge!
✅ Conclusion
It’s tempting to share your plate — and sometimes, it’s fine!
But always double-check before giving human foods: dogs process foods differently, and even small amounts can harm.
When in doubt: plain, small, occasional — and ask your vet.