30+ Toxic Foods for Dogs: Complete Guide to Foods Dogs Can't Eat
Disclaimer
As dog owners, we often want to share our food with our furry companions. However, many common foods that are perfectly safe for humans can be dangerous or even fatal to dogs. This comprehensive guide covers over 30 foods that are toxic to dogs, explaining why they're harmful, what symptoms to watch for, and what to do in case of accidental ingestion.
Emergency Information
If Your Dog Has Consumed a Toxic Food:
- Contact your veterinarian immediately
- If unavailable, call an emergency animal hospital
- Call a pet poison helpline:
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
- Have information ready about what and how much your dog consumed, when it happened, and your dog's weight
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional
Complete List of Foods Toxic to Dogs
Below is a comprehensive list of foods that are toxic or harmful to dogs. The severity of toxicity can vary based on the amount consumed, your dog's size, and individual sensitivity.
1. ChocolateHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs cannot metabolize effectively. Dark and baking chocolate contain higher amounts of these toxins than milk chocolate.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, panting, excessive urination, restlessness, racing heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures, and in severe cases, death
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian immediately. The toxic dose depends on the type of chocolate and your dog's weight.
2. Grapes and RaisinsHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. The toxic substance is unknown, and sensitivity varies between individual dogs.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, decreased appetite, decreased urination, abdominal pain, kidney failure
What to do:
Seek immediate veterinary care. Even small amounts can be toxic to some dogs.
3. XylitolVery High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Causes a rapid release of insulin in dogs, leading to severe hypoglycemia. Can also cause liver failure.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, followed by symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) such as weakness, lack of coordination, collapse, and seizures. Liver failure may develop within days.
What to do:
This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary care.
4. Onions and GarlicModerate to High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. Garlic is more potent than onions, and cats are more sensitive than dogs.
Symptoms to watch for:
Lethargy, weakness, reduced appetite, pale gums, elevated heart rate, collapse, reddish or brown urine
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian. Effects may not be apparent for several days after consumption.
5. AlcoholHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Causes intoxication similar to humans but much more severe due to smaller body size and different metabolism.
Symptoms to watch for:
Disorientation, staggering, behavioral changes, excitement or depression, increased urination, slowed breathing, seizures, cardiac arrest
What to do:
Seek immediate veterinary care.
6. Macadamia NutsModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
The toxic principle is unknown, but affects the nervous system and muscles.
Symptoms to watch for:
Weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, hyperthermia (elevated body temperature), inability to walk or stand, especially in the hind legs
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian. Symptoms usually appear within 12 hours and can last up to 48 hours.
7. AvocadoLow to Moderate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains persin, which can cause digestive upset in dogs. The pit also poses a choking and obstruction hazard.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, myocardial damage
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if large amounts are consumed or if symptoms develop.
8. CaffeineHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and some medications. Acts as a stimulant and can affect the heart, nervous system, and other organs.
Symptoms to watch for:
Restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, bleeding, seizures
What to do:
Seek immediate veterinary care.
9. Raw Bread DoughModerate to High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Yeast in the dough can expand in the warm, moist environment of the stomach, causing bloat. As it ferments, it produces alcohol which can lead to alcohol poisoning.
Symptoms to watch for:
Bloating, abdominal pain, vomiting, disorientation, and in severe cases, alcohol toxicity from fermentation
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian immediately.
10. HopsHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Used in beer brewing, hops can cause malignant hyperthermia in dogs, especially in breeds susceptible to exercise-induced hyperthermia.
Symptoms to watch for:
Panting, increased heart rate, elevated temperature, seizures, and death
What to do:
This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary care.
11. Salt and Salty SnacksModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Large amounts of salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning, causing cells to release water to balance sodium levels, leading to brain swelling.
Symptoms to watch for:
Excessive thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, elevated body temperature
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if large amounts are consumed or if symptoms develop.
12. Fatty FoodsModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Can cause pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which can be life-threatening.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, loss of appetite
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if symptoms develop, especially if they persist or worsen.
13. NutmegModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations and central nervous system problems in dogs.
Symptoms to watch for:
Disorientation, increased heart rate, seizures, abdominal pain, dry mouth
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if more than a small amount is consumed.
14. Raw EggsLow Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Risk of Salmonella or E. coli contamination. Raw egg whites contain avidin, which can interfere with biotin absorption over time.
Symptoms to watch for:
Potential for food poisoning (vomiting, diarrhea, fever)
What to do:
Monitor for symptoms and contact your veterinarian if they develop.
15. Raw FishLow to Moderate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Some raw fish can contain parasites and bacteria. Certain fish (like salmon) may contain a parasite that causes 'salmon poisoning disease' in dogs.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, fever, enlarged lymph nodes
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if symptoms develop.
16. TobaccoHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains nicotine, which affects the digestive and nervous systems.
Symptoms to watch for:
Excitement followed by depression, salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, confusion, rapid breathing, abnormal heart rate, tremors, seizures
What to do:
Seek immediate veterinary care.
17. MarijuanaModerate to High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
THC affects the nervous system and can cause serious neurological problems.
Symptoms to watch for:
Lethargy, dilated pupils, glassy eyes, uncoordinated movement, vomiting, urinary incontinence, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures or coma
What to do:
Seek veterinary care immediately. Be honest with your vet about what your pet consumed to ensure proper treatment.
18. Persimmons, Peaches, and PlumsModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
The seeds or pits can cause obstruction in the digestive tract. Peach and plum pits also contain cyanide.
Symptoms to watch for:
Intestinal obstruction, enteritis (inflammation of the small intestine)
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if your dog consumes the pit or large quantities of these fruits.
19. RhubarbModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains oxalates that can cause kidney problems. The leaves are more toxic than the stalks.
Symptoms to watch for:
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, kidney failure
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if consumed, especially if symptoms develop.
20. Tomato PlantsLow to Moderate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
The green parts of the plant (stems, leaves, unripe fruit) contain solanine, which can be toxic in large amounts.
Symptoms to watch for:
Gastrointestinal upset, drowsiness, dilated pupils, slow heart rate, difficulty breathing, tremors
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if large amounts of green parts are consumed or if symptoms develop.
21. Moldy FoodsModerate to High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Some molds produce mycotoxins that can cause serious neurological symptoms.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, tremors, seizures, elevated body temperature
What to do:
Seek immediate veterinary care if tremors or seizures develop.
22. Corn on the CobLow (but high risk of obstruction) Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
While corn itself is not toxic, the cob can cause intestinal blockage if swallowed.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, loss of appetite
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has swallowed a corn cob.
23. CherriesModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Cherry pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which interferes with oxygen transport in the blood.
Symptoms to watch for:
Difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, red gums, shock
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if your dog consumes cherry pits, stems, or leaves.
24. Citrus FruitsLow Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
The stems, leaves, peels, fruit, and seeds of citrus plants contain varying amounts of citric acid and essential oils that can cause irritation.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
What to do:
Monitor for symptoms and contact your veterinarian if they develop or persist.
25. Coconut and Coconut OilLow Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Small amounts are usually not problematic, but the high fat content can cause digestive upset and potentially pancreatitis in some dogs.
Symptoms to watch for:
Stomach upset, diarrhea
What to do:
Monitor for symptoms and contact your veterinarian if they develop or persist.
26. Nuts (Various)Low to Moderate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Many nuts are high in fats and oils, which can cause digestive upset and potentially pancreatitis. Some, like walnuts, can cause neurological symptoms.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, hyperthermia, weakness, depression, tremors, seizures (varies by nut type)
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if large amounts are consumed or if symptoms develop.
27. Raw PotatoesLow to Moderate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Green or sprouting potatoes contain solanine, which can be toxic to dogs.
Symptoms to watch for:
Gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, weakness, confusion
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if large amounts are consumed or if symptoms develop.
28. Mustard SeedsModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains compounds that can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
Symptoms to watch for:
Gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if symptoms develop or persist.
29. Artificial Sweeteners (other than Xylitol)Low Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
While not as toxic as xylitol, other artificial sweeteners can cause digestive issues.
Symptoms to watch for:
Digestive upset, diarrhea
What to do:
Monitor for symptoms and contact your veterinarian if they develop or persist.
Preventing Accidental Poisoning
The best way to protect your dog from food poisoning is prevention. Here are some important steps you can take:
- Store food securely: Keep potentially harmful foods in closed containers and in cabinets or refrigerators that your dog cannot access.
- Educate family members and guests: Make sure everyone in your household and visitors know not to feed your dog table scraps without your permission.
- Be careful with trash: Use secure trash cans with lids that your dog cannot open, especially for food waste.
- Clean up spills immediately: Don't leave harmful foods or drinks unattended, even briefly.
- Be extra vigilant during holidays: Many food poisoning incidents occur during holidays when there's more food around and routines are disrupted.
- Keep medications separate: Never store medications (human or pet) near food items to avoid confusion.
- Check ingredient lists: Many processed foods contain ingredients like xylitol or chocolate that may not be obvious. Always check labels.
- Have emergency contacts ready: Keep your vet's phone number, the nearest emergency vet clinic, and animal poison control numbers in an easily accessible place.
Safe Alternatives: Foods Dogs CAN Eat
Instead of sharing potentially harmful foods, consider these safe alternatives that most dogs can enjoy in moderation:
- Lean meats: Cooked chicken, turkey, or lean beef (without seasonings, bones, or excess fat)
- Many fruits: Apples (without seeds), blueberries, strawberries, watermelon (without seeds), bananas
- Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, cucumber, pumpkin (plain, cooked), sweet potatoes (cooked)
- Other safe options: Plain cooked eggs, plain yogurt (no xylitol), small amounts of peanut butter (xylitol-free)
For a complete guide to human foods that are safe for dogs, check out our article on 25 Human Foods That Are Safe for Dogs.
Conclusion
While this list of toxic foods for dogs is extensive, it's not exhaustive. When in doubt about whether a food is safe for your dog, it's always best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving it to them. Remember that even foods that are technically safe can cause digestive upset if introduced suddenly or given in large amounts.
If you suspect your dog has consumed something toxic, don't wait for symptoms to appear—contact your veterinarian immediately. Quick action can make a significant difference in the outcome.
By being aware of these dangerous foods and taking preventive measures, you can help ensure your canine companion stays safe and healthy for years to come.