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Before sharing that savory meal with your furry friend, it’s important to understand what’s safe for dogs and what’s not safe for them.
The online community can be a source of potentially conflicting information about what can dogs eat and not eat, making it slightly difficult to make the right choice.
We researched foods dogs can and can’t eat from verified sources to help you make informed decisions about your pet’s diet.
This guide is beneficial to those looking for dog food add ins and those wanting to avoid toxic foods for dogs for their overall wellness.
Our dog-friendly food chart is compiled in written form to make it easier to read and packed with all the information you may seek.
20 Healthy Foods Dogs Can Eat
Many human-friendly meals are good for our furry friends too, but always remember to feed in moderation.
Here’s our comprehensive list of dog safe foods that you can safely share with your pooch without health concerns.
1. Lean Meats
One of the top human foods for dogs is lean meat. When well-cooked, this super food can provide essential proteins and nutrients to keep your dog healthy.
This category includes boneless chicken, turkey, and lean beef. When preparing these meats for your furry friend, always cook them thoroughly without any seasonings.
Do not feed your dog the fatty cuts because they come with the risk of pancreatitis. Baking, boiling, or grilling without spices are the best preparation methods for this food.
Pet parents with active dogs can solely rely on lean meat to help their four-legged pals stay lively and build muscles for more strength.
A caution with meat is to avoid feeding your dogs cooked bones because they can splinter and cause serious injuries when dogs chew on them.
2. Sweet Potatoes
These sweet tuber plants are packed with good amounts of dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, B6, and beta-carotene.
The dietary fiber in sweet potatoes can be particularly beneficial to their digestive system and the vitamins may help boost immunity.
Your dog can also have regular bowel movements and improved satiety from regular consumption of well-prepared sweet potatoes.
Sweet potatoes also have complex carbohydrates which release sugar slowly to support sustainable energy.
Besides the usual baking and steaming, sweet potatoes can be prepared in other ways including dehydrating them as treats.
Your dog’s sweet potatoes should not be prepared using butter, salt, spices, or other common seasonings. It is best served plain.
Pet parents looking for a grain-free diet for their dogs or those seeking a low-fat chewy treat can consider sweet potatoes.
3. Pumpkin
Plain pumpkin puree is a miracle food for babies, and dogs too! Pumpkin is packed with dietary fiber to help your pup ease diarrhea symptoms and have regular bowel movements.
The dietary fiber in pumpkin works by absorbing excess water in the gastrointestinal tract to firm up loose stool and soothe aching stomach.
Other vital nutrients in pumpkins include vitamins A and C, iron, and potassium which help support various bodily functions.
Always go for plain pumpkin when feeding your dog this vegetable. Avoid pumpkin pie filling because they are chockfull of sugars and spices that could be toxic to your dog.
4. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt contains high levels of probiotics which can help your dog maintain a good flora balance in their gut.
A balanced microbiome can help improve the immune functions in the dog’s body besides helping in the digestion of foods.
As an excellent source of calcium and proteins, Greek yogurt is particularly beneficial to young puppies and active dogs.
Plain yogurt is an especially useful dog food add in to give as a topping or treat for dogs that enjoy creamy textures.
Always choose plain, unsweetened, full-fat Greek yogurt if you decide to let your pup have a lick of this wonderful treat.
5. Carrots
This crunchy orange vegetable is fully loaded with beta-carotene which converts to vitamin A to help dogs with vision and improved immunity.
Carrots also have dietary fiber which is good for the dog’s digestive health. Raw pieces of carrots are good natural low-calorie treats that you should consider.
The crunchy texture helps with dental hygiene. The action of chewing these crunchy treats also massages the dog’s gums which helps in blood circulation.
Besides serving plain, you can also steam the carrots to soften the texture for older dogs or those with painful gums.
6. Eggs
Cooked eggs have a mix of all the essential amino acids making a perfect protein profile for your dog’s skin and coat health.
If your dog’s sensitive stomach can’t handle tough protein, the one in eggs is highly digestible for immediate uptake.
There are many ways to prepare eggs for your dog. You can boil or scramble to ensure they are fully cooked before feeding.
Half-cooked eggs may have the risk of Salmonella, which can be dangerous for dogs. You’ll also want to avoid using butter or any other seasonings when preparing these eggs.
7. Salmon
Properly cooked salmon is safe for dogs to eat. This finfish is highly packed with omega-3 fatty acids which are helpful for coat and skin health.
When preparing salmon for your furry friend, make sure it’s thoroughly cooked and free from bones. Avoid seasoning and cook it. Baked or poached works well.
Never serve raw salmon, because it can contain parasites that are harmful to dogs. A serving size of about 1 ounce per 10 pounds of body weight is appropriate as an occasional treat.
8. Green Beans
Fresh or steamed green beans make an excellent low-calorie snack for dogs. They’re packed with vitamins C and K, manganese, and fiber, which are all good for weight management.
The fiber content helps dogs get sated while consuming fewer calories, making them an ideal treat for overweight pups.
Green beans can be served raw, steamed, or canned (with no salt added).
These veggies are crispy and soft at the same time. Just ensure they’re cut into chewable sizes to prevent choking, especially if you’re feeding a smaller dog or puppy.
9. Quinoa
As a complete protein containing all essential amino acids, quinoa can be an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. It’s naturally gluten-free and rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Unlike some grains, quinoa is easily digestible for most dogs and can be particularly beneficial for dogs with grain sensitivities.
When preparing quinoa for your dog, cook it thoroughly in plain water. No butter, oils, or seasonings are needed.
Start with small amounts to ensure your dog tolerates it well, and always rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove any natural coating that could cause stomach upset.
10. Bread
Plain, fully-baked bread can be safely enjoyed by most dogs in moderation. This staple food provides carbohydrates for energy, though it shouldn’t constitute a significant portion of your dog’s diet.
The key is choosing the right type – stick to plain white or wheat bread without added ingredients like nuts, seeds, or seasonings.
Never feed your dog raw dough or bread containing toxic ingredients like garlic or raisins. Be mindful of portion sizes as bread is calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain.
Some dogs may also have gluten sensitivities, so observe your pet after introducing bread and discontinue if you notice any digestive issues.
11. Cashews
Cashew nuts are a safe, occasional treat for dogs when properly prepared. These nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.
However, they should only be served roasted or cooked (never raw), unsalted, and without any flavoring or coatings.
Due to their high-fat content, cashews should be given sparingly. Too many cashews can lead to pancreatitis or obesity.
For small dogs, one or two cashews are plenty, while larger dogs might handle up to five. Always chop them into smaller pieces to prevent choking.
12. Cheese
This protein-rich treat can be a valuable training tool and medication disguise for most of our canine friends.
Cheese contains protein, calcium, vitamin A, and B-complex vitamins. However, not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to canine consumption.
Always choose low-fat options like mozzarella or cottage cheese, and avoid blue cheeses or those with added herbs or spices.
If your dog is lactose intolerant, aim to start with small cheese amounts and watch for signs of digestive upset.
13. Peanuts & Peanut Butter
Plain, unsalted peanuts and natural peanut butter can be excellent treats for dogs. They are packed with protein, healthy fats, vitamin B, niacin, and vitamin E.
Peanut butter for dogs must be free from sugar and xylitol. When selecting peanut butter, look for products containing only peanuts, or peanuts and healthy fats.
If you’re feeding whole peanuts, they should be unsalted, unshelled, and roasted. Do not feed raw peanuts.
Many dogs enjoy peanut butter frozen in Kong toys or spread on healthy snacks like apple slices.
14. Popcorn
Plain, air-popped popcorn can be a healthy, low-calorie treat for dogs. The key word here is ‘plain’. NO butter, salt, or other seasonings should be added.
Air-popped popcorn contains valuable minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, along with small amounts of fiber and protein.
Remember un-popped kernels can damage teeth or pose a choking hazard, while popcorn hulls can get stuck between teeth or cause gum irritation.
Always remove any un-popped kernels and let the popcorn cool completely before sharing it with your dog.
15. Apples
Most dogs love taking a bite of this crunchy treat during a hot summer afternoon to cool off. Apples are one of the nourishing fruits dogs can eat and they are packed with lots of nutrients.
The high amounts of vitamins A and C make apples a worthy choice to consider if you’re looking for a low-calorie treat.
Apple is chockfull of soluble fiber which helps lower blood sugar and bad cholesterol besides aiding in proper digestion.
Besides the nutritional value, the crunchy apple texture can help clean your dog’s teeth to prevent them from plaque buildup.
Before you toss an apple into your dog’s food bowl, make sure to prepare it by removing the core and seeds and then cutting it into chewable pieces.
Apple seeds contain traceable amounts of amygdalin which can produce cyanide when crushed. This makes them toxic to dogs when consumed in large quantities.
16. Blueberries
Blueberries are one of the healthiest fruits dogs can eat. They are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K.
The antioxidants help combat inflammation and support cognitive function in aging dogs. Their small size makes them perfect for training treats or snacks.
Blueberries have a natural sweetness that is usually appealing to dogs. Fresh or frozen blueberries can be offered as is, or mashed and mixed into your dog’s regular food.
17. Strawberries
These juicy berries offer dogs a healthy dose of fiber, vitamin C, and an enzyme that can help whiten teeth naturally.
Strawberries are also rich in antioxidants and relatively low in calories, making them an excellent treat option for dogs watching their weight.
However, they should always be served fresh or frozen, never in syrup or with added sugar. Remove the leaves and stem, and cut larger strawberries into smaller pieces to prevent choking.
For small dogs, half a strawberry is usually sufficient. Larger dog breeds might enjoy a whole berry for a day.
18. Watermelon
This refreshing fruit is a fantastic summer treat for dogs, consisting of 92% water and packed with vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium.
Make sure to remove all watermelon seeds and rinds before serving. The flesh should be cut into bite-sized chunks appropriate for your dog’s size.
Frozen watermelon chunks can make an excellent cooling treat on hot days. Moderation is always key because natural sugars can accelerate weight gain if overfed.
Some creative ways to serve watermelon include freezing it in ice cube trays or pureeing it to make frozen treats.
19. Cucumber
This low-calorie vegetable is an excellent option for dogs who need to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Cucumbers are about 96% water, making them incredibly hydrating, and they contain virtually no fats or oils.
They’re also rich in vitamins K, C, and B1, as well as potassium, copper, and magnesium. The crunchy texture can help clean teeth and freshen breath naturally.
When serving cucumber, wash it thoroughly and cut it into appropriate-sized pieces for your dog’s age to prevent choking.
While the skin is safe, some dogs might digest peeled cucumber more easily. You can serve it fresh or frozen for a cooling summer treat.
20. Banana
This potassium-rich fruit can be a healthy treat for our canine friends when served in moderation.
Ripe bananas contain vitamin B6, vitamin C, and manganese, along with fiber that can help with digestive issues.
For small dogs, a few small slices are plenty, while larger dogs might handle up to half a banana. The soft texture makes bananas particularly suitable for senior dogs or those with dental issues.
You can serve them fresh, frozen, or mashed and mixed with other dog-safe foods. Feel free to stuff them into a Kong toy for longer-lasting entertainment.
Some creative dog owners even make ‘banana sushi’ by wrapping thin banana slices in a small amount of plain, low-fat peanut butter.
16 Toxic Foods for Dogs
Not all foods that are safe for humans are safe for dogs. Dog-toxic foods pose significant health risks and should be kept out of reach to ensure safety.
Here’s a detailed list of toxic foods for dogs that should never be shared with your pet:
1. Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the most-known toxic foods for dogs. All types of chocolate contain theobromine, although it’s high in dark and baking chocolate.
Dogs cannot metabolize this compound fast enough like humans, potentially leading to a build-up that is toxic to their system.
Consumption of chocolate can cause dogs to vomit, have diarrhea, have increased thirst, become restless, have heart problems, and die in severe cases.
2. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes (all types) and raisins might seem like the perfect size for natural dog treats, but nothing can be further from the truth.
Feeding even small amounts of grapes can cause severe kidney failure in dogs while making them very sick.
The common symptoms of a dog that eats grapes include bad breath, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, excessive thirst, and lethargy.
The other thing about grapes for dogs is that scientists still don’t fully understand the toxic compound responsible for toxicity.
3. Onions & Garlic
You should keep all members of the allium family (onions, garlic, leeks, and chives) away from your dog at all costs.
Be it powdered, dehydrated, raw, or cooked, onions and garlic contain a natural compound known as N-propyl disulfide which can break down the red blood cells and cause anemia.
What makes this ingredient so dangerous is that the compound can accumulate in the body even when presented in small amounts.
The clinical signs might not appear for several days after a dog eats onion, but you should watch out for lethargy, reduced appetite, pale gums, and orange to dark red urine.
Shiba Inus and Akitas, among other Japanese dog breeds, have been proven to be more susceptible to onion toxicity.
4. Avocados
Touted as one of the healthiest foods for humans, Avocados are sadly not safe for our furry friends to indulge in.
This single-berried fruit contains a fungicidal toxin called persin which can cause serious health issues in dogs.
Humans who are not allergic to persin can enjoy avocados, but dogs may become sick and develop signs including diarrhea and vomiting.
Avocados are high in fat. This can trigger sensitive dogs to develop pancreatitis if consumed in large amounts.
Away from the avocado flesh, the large pit also poses a serious choking hazard to dogs and can cause intestinal blockage if swallowed.
The avocado pit can also cause obstruction or perforation of the gastrointestinal tract, especially for small breeds and this may require an emergency surgery.
5. Macadamia Nuts
Keep all macadamia nuts and their products away from your dog at all costs. As few as six raw or roasted macadamia can cause nut toxicosis in dogs.
Some of the clinical signs to watch out for include limb weakness, hyperthermia (high temperatures), depression, and muscle twitch.
The toxic mechanism isn’t fully understood, but symptoms typically appear within 12 hours of ingestion and can last for up to 48 hours.
Feeding your dog chocolate that contains macadamia nuts can increase the risks further which may potentially lead to death.
6. Xylitol
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free candies, diet foods, peanut butter, protein bars, and other food items.
This toxic compound can cause hypoglycemia (a drop in blood sugar) in dogs and potentially cause liver failure.
The rapid release of insulin can occur within minutes of ingestion and may require immediate intervention before the worst can happen.
Seizures are possible with Xylitol toxicity in dogs and liver failure may set in a few days after ingestion where no treatment is provided.
7. Caffeine
Humans drink caffeine products for many reasons top of that being stimulation. If you want your dog to be vibrant, we recommend giving them interactive toys and not a glass of coffee!
Our canine friends are surprisingly more sensitive to caffeine products than humans. Ingestion can often lead to increased heart rate, twitching, hyperactivity, dilated pupils, and coma in severe cases.
The effects of caffeine in dogs can be more severe for those who already have underlying heart conditions.
Keep the coffee, tea, cocoa, and energy drinks, away from your dog. Be particularly careful about some pain-relieving medications that also contain caffeine.
8. Alcohol
Alcohol has the same effects on both humans and dogs, but it takes an even smaller quantity for our canine friends to experience negative symptoms.
We are talking about sudden drops in blood sugar, liver problems, decreased blood pressure, and potential brain issues.
These clinical signs appear faster in dogs because they have a much slower metabolism rate for alcohol than humans.
A small pint of your favorite wine, beer, or fermented foods with alcohol can be toxic to your four-legged member.
Diarrhea, vomiting, loss of coordination, and breathing problems are some of the telltale signs of alcohol toxicity in dogs.
9. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob might seem like an interesting chew treat for your dog, but you should avoid it at all costs.
Corn kernels are not toxic themselves, but the corn on the cob comes with the risk of intestinal blockage.
Curious dogs may attempt to swallow large chunks of corn on the cob. This can become lodged in their intestinal tract and require emergency surgery for removal.
Intestinal blockage may cut off blood supply to tissues and lead to fatalities if left unchecked for a long time.
10. Ice Cream
While it might be tempting to share a lick of your ice cream cone with your pup on a hot summer day, this frozen treat can cause significant problems for our canine companions.
Commercial ice cream is packed with refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, and high amounts of fat that can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestive system.
Many dogs develop lactose intolerance as they age, leading to uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Some ice cream flavors even contain ingredients toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, coffee, or macadamia nuts.
11. Raw Fat & Bones
Before feeding your dog those fatty steak trimmings, remember the serious health risks associated with such foods.
Fat trimmings, both cooked and raw, can cause a dangerous inflammation of the pancreas that can be life-threatening (pancreatitis).
Bones pose an even more complex threat to dogs. Cooked bones can splinter into sharp shards that may perforate your dog’s digestive tract, and cause choking, or intestinal blockages.
Even raw bones can crack teeth, cause internal injuries, or lead to constipation if too many bone fragments are consumed.
If you want to treat your dog to something meaty, opt for lean, boneless pieces of cooked meat instead, or consider commercially produced dental chews designed specifically for dogs.
12. Stone Fruits
Fruits such as persimmons, peaches, and plums, harbor a hidden danger in their seeds and pits that many pet owners may overlook.
The biggest threat comes from the pits, which contain amygdalin, a compound that breaks down into cyanide when ingested.
Beyond their toxic properties, these pits can cause serious intestinal blockages if swallowed.
While the flesh of peaches and plums is safe in moderation, persimmon seeds can cause problems in the digestive system by combining with stomach acid to form a hard mass that can block the intestines.
The bark, leaves, and flowers of these fruits also contain traces of cyanide and should be kept away from curious dogs who might be tempted to chew.
13. Salt & Sodium
While a tiny bit of salt isn’t immediately dangerous, excessive salt consumption can lead to severe health issues in dogs.
Unlike humans, dogs are much more sensitive to salt and can quickly develop salt poisoning, also known as hypernatremia.
Salty snacks like potato chips, pretzels, or salted popcorn can lead to excessive thirst, urination, and serious symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures.
In severe cases, high salt intake can cause kidney damage, coma, and even death.
Keep your dog away from rock salt used for de-icing in winter because this can cause chemical burns on paw pads and be toxic if licked off.
14. Sweet Foods & Drinks
Sugary foods and drinks have no place in a healthy canine diet. When dogs consume excessive sugar, they can experience rapid blood sugar spikes.
Frequent consumption of sugary foods can lead to obesity, diabetes, and dental issues, including cavities and gum disease.
Sugary drinks, such as sodas and sweetened juices, pose additional risks by adding large amounts of sugar in liquid form, which the body absorbs quickly.
Some sugary foods, like baked goods, may also contain harmful ingredients such as chocolate or xylitol, both of which are toxic to our canine friends.
15. Raw Yeast Dough
Uncooked yeast dough, particularly bread dough, can be incredibly dangerous if ingested by dogs.
When a dog consumes raw dough, the yeast within it begins to ferment in the warm, moist environment of the stomach, releasing gas and alcohol as byproducts.
This gas can cause painful bloating and even gastric torsion, a life-threatening condition that can cut off blood flow to vital organs.
The alcohol produced during fermentation is also toxic, leading to symptoms like disorientation, vomiting, and in severe cases, respiratory distress or seizures.
The expanding dough can also cause blockages in the digestive tract, which may require emergency intervention.
To keep dogs safe, always store dough out of reach and prevent access to any area where raw dough is left unattended.
16. Human Medicine
Human medications are among the most common sources of accidental poisoning in dogs. Our furry friends should never take human drugs unless prescribed by a veterinarian.
Drugs like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), and certain antidepressants can be highly toxic, with clinical signs such as vomiting, seizures, and liver damage.
Some medications for humans, especially those for pain relief or cold symptoms, contain ingredients that dogs metabolize very differently. This can lead to toxic buildups even in small doses.
Always store medications out of reach and never attempt to treat a dog’s symptoms with human medicine.
If your dog accidentally ingests ANY medication, call your trusty vet or reach out to a pet poison helpline immediately.
Conclusion
Getting to know what can dogs eat and not eat is essential for every pet owner who wants to provide their furry friend with a safe, nutritious diet.
While it’s tempting to share everything from your plate with those pleading puppy eyes, remember that a dog’s digestive system is different from ours.
As you have seen, certain human foods make excellent dog food add-ins, but others are to be avoided at all costs.
Keep toxic items out of your dog’s reach and always watch out for signs of food poisoning when feeding your furry members.
If you’re unsure about something, please double-check our list of dog-safe foods and the other list of toxic foods for dogs to erase all doubts.
Laura is the founder of Furs'n'Paws. She is a also a pet writer and expert with more than 20 years of experience of working with dogs and cats. She developed a very strong love for animals at a young age. Her passion led her to establish a thriving pet sitting and dog walking business in Dubai. As an expert in pet training, behavior, and nutrition, Laura is committed to helping pet owners and pet lovers by offering high-quality information on a wide range of topics.
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