Safe and Toxic Foods for Dogs

Plain, cooked chicken without seasoning, skin, or bones is safe and healthy for dogs. It's a good source of protein and is often used in commercial dog foods.

Carrots are safe and nutritious for dogs. They're low in calories, high in fiber, and good for dental health when given raw as a crunchy treat.

Apples (without seeds) are safe for dogs and provide vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. They're a crunchy, low-calorie treat.

Plain, unsalted peanut butter without xylitol is safe for dogs in moderation. It's a good source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins B and E.

Cooked eggs are safe and nutritious for dogs. They're an excellent source of protein, fatty acids, and essential amino acids.

Properly cooked salmon is safe and beneficial for dogs. It's rich in omega-3 fatty acids which support skin, coat, and immune health.

Plain, cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) is safe and beneficial for dogs. It's high in fiber and can help with both diarrhea and constipation.

Watermelon flesh (without seeds or rind) is safe for dogs and provides hydration and vitamins A, B6, and C.

Blueberries are safe and nutritious for dogs. They're low in calories and high in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K.

Bananas are safe for dogs and provide potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They're low in cholesterol and sodium.

Cooked sweet potatoes (without seasoning) are safe and nutritious for dogs. They're high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Plain, cooked turkey without skin, bones, or seasonings is safe and healthy for dogs. It's a good source of lean protein.

Green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned with no salt added) are safe and healthy for dogs. They're low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Lean, cooked beef without seasoning is safe and nutritious for dogs. It's an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals including iron and zinc.

Plain, cooked white or brown rice is safe for dogs and often recommended for upset stomachs. It's easily digestible and can help firm up loose stools.

Strawberries are safe and nutritious for dogs. They contain antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. They also contain an enzyme that can help whiten teeth.

Cantaloupe flesh (without seeds or rind) is safe for dogs and provides vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as fiber and potassium.

Properly cooked fish without bones is safe and nutritious for dogs. It's a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids which support skin, coat, and immune health.

Lean, cooked lamb without seasoning is safe and nutritious for dogs. It's an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Cooked quinoa is safe for dogs and provides protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious grain alternative.

Mango flesh (without the pit) is safe for dogs and provides vitamins A, B6, C, and E, as well as potassium and fiber.

Fresh pineapple (not canned in syrup) is safe for dogs in small amounts. It contains vitamins, minerals, and bromelain, an enzyme that may help with digestion.

Celery is safe for dogs and provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, potassium, and manganese. It's low in calories and can help freshen breath.

Cucumber is safe for dogs and provides vitamins K and C, as well as potassium, magnesium, and biotin. It's low in calories and has high water content, making it hydrating.

Kiwi fruit (without skin and seeds) is safe for dogs and provides vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin E, potassium, and fiber. It's also rich in antioxidants.

Zucchini is safe and healthy for dogs. It's low in calories and fat, and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It can be a good addition to the diet of overweight dogs.

Lean, cooked venison without seasoning is safe and nutritious for dogs. It's an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, and is often used in hypoallergenic dog foods.

Sardines packed in water (not oil or sauce) are safe and nutritious for dogs. They're rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin B12, and vitamin D.

Fresh parsley in small amounts is safe for dogs and can help freshen breath. It contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and minerals.

Pears are safe for dogs and provide vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. They're low in calories and can be a refreshing treat.

Cooked shrimp (without shell, tail, and vein) is safe for dogs and is a good source of protein, phosphorus, and antioxidants.

Cooked squash (like butternut, acorn, or summer squash) is safe and nutritious for dogs. It's high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium.

Cooked white fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia is safe for dogs and provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It's often used in commercial dog foods and is good for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange) are safe for dogs and rich in vitamins A, C, E, and antioxidants. Red bell peppers contain the most nutrients.

Papaya flesh (without seeds) is safe for dogs and provides vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate and potassium. It contains papain, an enzyme that may aid digestion.

Plain, thoroughly cooked lean pork without seasoning is safe for dogs in moderation. It's a good source of protein, amino acids, and several vitamins and minerals.

Fresh or frozen green peas (not canned with added salt) are safe for dogs and provide vitamins A, B, and K, as well as iron, zinc, potassium, and fiber.

Cooked rabbit meat without bones or seasoning is safe and nutritious for dogs. It's lean, high in protein, and often used in hypoallergenic dog foods.

Kale is safe for dogs in small amounts and contains vitamins A, K, and C, as well as calcium, iron, and antioxidants.

Most dogs can eat small amounts of cheese as an occasional treat. It's a good source of protein and calcium.

Plain, unsweetened yogurt is generally safe for dogs in small amounts. It contains probiotics that can benefit digestive health.

Plain, cooked oatmeal (without sugar or flavorings) is safe for dogs in moderation. It's a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Plain, unsalted peanuts (not in the shell) are safe for dogs in small amounts. They contain protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.

Broccoli is safe for dogs in small amounts. It's rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.

Raw, unprocessed honey is safe for adult dogs in very small amounts. It contains natural sugars, trace amounts of vitamins and minerals, and may have some antimicrobial properties.

Plain, thoroughly cooked pork without seasoning is safe for dogs in moderation. It's a good source of protein, amino acids, and several vitamins and minerals.

Spinach is generally safe for healthy dogs and contains vitamins A, B, C, and K, as well as iron, antioxidants, and beta-carotene.

Small amounts of coconut meat or coconut oil are generally safe for dogs. Coconut contains lauric acid, which may help combat bacteria and viruses.

Fresh or dried cranberries (without added sugar) are safe for dogs in small amounts. They contain vitamins C and E, fiber, and may help support urinary tract health.

Plain, low-fat cottage cheese is safe for most dogs in small amounts. It's a good source of protein and calcium, and is often easier to digest than other dairy products.

Plain, baked bread without added ingredients is generally safe for dogs in small amounts. It provides some carbohydrates but little nutritional value.

Plain, cooked corn kernels (removed from the cob) are safe for dogs in moderation. Corn provides protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and essential fatty acids.

Plain, air-popped popcorn without butter, salt, or seasonings is safe for dogs in small amounts. It contains some fiber and minerals.

Plain, store-bought mushrooms like button, cremini, and portobello are generally safe for dogs in small amounts when cooked. They contain B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants.

Plain, firm tofu is generally safe for dogs in small amounts. It's a source of protein and contains iron and calcium.

Dates (with pits removed) are safe for dogs in very small amounts. They contain fiber, potassium, copper, and several B vitamins.

Unsalted, shelled pistachios are generally safe for dogs in very small amounts. They contain protein, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals.

Small amounts of lean, cooked ham can be given to dogs occasionally. It contains protein and some B vitamins.

Plain, unseasoned tomato sauce in very small amounts may be okay for dogs occasionally. Ripe tomatoes themselves are not toxic, but many commercial tomato sauces contain onions, garlic, salt, and other ingredients that are harmful to dogs.

Brown rice is safe for dogs in moderation and contains more fiber and nutrients than white rice. It can be part of a balanced diet but is harder to digest than white rice.

Plain, cooked pasta (without sauce) is safe for dogs in moderation. It's primarily a source of carbohydrates with little nutritional value for dogs.

Plain, cooked potatoes (not raw or green) are safe for dogs in moderation. They provide carbohydrates, vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and magnesium.

Plain, unsalted cashews are safe for dogs in very small amounts. They contain protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, but are high in fat and calories.

Cooked beets are safe for dogs in moderation. They contain fiber, vitamin C, folate, manganese, and potassium.

Cooked asparagus is safe for dogs in moderation. It contains vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K, as well as folate, iron, copper, fiber, and manganese.

Cooked turnips are safe for dogs in moderation. They contain vitamins C and B6, folate, calcium, potassium, and fiber.

Shelled, unsalted sunflower seeds are safe for dogs in small amounts. They contain vitamin E, selenium, and healthy fats.

Cooked barley is safe for dogs in moderation. It's a whole grain that provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and can be beneficial for dogs with certain digestive issues.

Chocolate contains methylxanthines (theobromine and caffeine) which dogs cannot metabolize effectively. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous due to higher concentrations of these compounds.

Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts. The exact toxic substance in grapes is unknown, and sensitivity varies between dogs.

Onions contain compounds called disulfides and thiosulfates which can damage a dog's red blood cells and cause anemia. All forms of onions are toxic: raw, cooked, dehydrated, or powdered.

Garlic contains thiosulfate, which is toxic to dogs and can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. Garlic is about 5 times more potent than onions.

Xylitol is a sweetener found in many sugar-free products that is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause severe hypoglycemia and liver failure.

Alcohol is highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause serious health problems including liver and brain damage.

Grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. The toxic substance in grapes is unknown, and sensitivity varies between dogs. Even small amounts can be dangerous.

Coffee contains caffeine, which is toxic to dogs. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and seizures.

Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs and can cause weakness, hyperthermia, vomiting, and tremors. The exact mechanism of toxicity is unknown.

Raw bread dough containing yeast can expand in a dog's stomach, causing pain and potentially rupturing the stomach. The fermentation process also produces alcohol, which is toxic to dogs.

Hops, used in beer brewing, can cause malignant hyperthermia in dogs, leading to organ damage and death.

Moldy foods can contain mycotoxins, which are toxic to dogs and can cause tremors, seizures, and death.

Tobacco contains nicotine, which is toxic to dogs and can cause tremors, seizures, and death.

Excessive salt intake can cause sodium ion poisoning in dogs, leading to dehydration, tremors, seizures, and death.

Marijuana contains THC, which is toxic to dogs and can cause incoordination, tremors, and seizures.

Blue cheese contains roquefortine C, which can be toxic to dogs and cause vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.

Many fruit pits and seeds contain cyanide compounds that are toxic to dogs. They can also cause intestinal blockages.

Mustard seeds contain compounds that can be toxic to dogs in large amounts, causing gastrointestinal irritation.

Many human vitamins and supplements can be toxic to dogs, especially those containing xylitol or high doses of certain vitamins.

Many artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol, are extremely toxic to dogs and can cause hypoglycemia and liver failure.

Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious internal damage to dogs, including choking, cuts in the digestive tract, and intestinal blockages.

Raw fish can contain parasites and bacteria that can cause disease in dogs. Some fish also contain thiaminase, which destroys thiamine (vitamin B1).

Garlic powder is more concentrated than fresh garlic and contains higher levels of thiosulfate compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs.

Persimmon seeds and pits contain cyanide and can cause intestinal blockage and inflammation of the small intestine in dogs.

Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, some sodas, chocolate, and some medications. It stimulates the central nervous system and cardiovascular system, which can be dangerous for dogs.

Wild mushrooms can be extremely toxic to dogs. Many varieties contain toxins that can cause severe liver and kidney damage, neurological problems, or death.

Avocados contain persin, a fungicidal toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The pit also presents a serious choking and intestinal blockage hazard.

Nutmeg contains myristicin, which is toxic to dogs and can cause hallucinations, disorientation, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, dry mouth, abdominal pain, and seizures.

Rhubarb leaves contain soluble oxalate crystals, which are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure. The stalks contain less of these compounds but are still not recommended.

Walnuts, especially black walnuts, can be toxic to dogs. They can contain a toxin called juglone and are also susceptible to mold that produces tremorgenic mycotoxins. Additionally, their size and hardness present choking and intestinal blockage risks.

Raw yeast dough is toxic to dogs. The yeast continues to rise in the warm, moist environment of the stomach, causing painful gas and potentially dangerous bloating. As the yeast ferments, it produces alcohol which can lead to alcohol poisoning.

Poppy seeds contain opiates that can be toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. They can cause central nervous system depression, sedation, and in severe cases, respiratory depression.

Star fruit (carambola) contains soluble calcium oxalates that can cause acute kidney failure in dogs with existing kidney problems. Even in healthy dogs, it can cause stomach upset and neurological symptoms.

Tamarind is not recommended for dogs due to its high acidity and sugar content. It can cause severe digestive upset and potentially lead to pancreatitis in sensitive dogs.

Raw elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides that can release cyanide when metabolized. The leaves, stems, and unripe berries are particularly toxic to dogs.

Sorrel contains soluble oxalates which can cause kidney damage in dogs. It's particularly dangerous for dogs with existing kidney issues.

Juniper berries can cause gastrointestinal upset and kidney damage in dogs. They contain volatile oils that can irritate the digestive system and potentially harm the kidneys.

Chives belong to the Allium family (along with onions and garlic) and contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs, leading to hemolytic anemia.

Horseradish contains volatile oils that can irritate a dog's digestive system and potentially cause gastric upset or inflammation. The strong, pungent flavor can also cause oral irritation.

While chamomile tea in small amounts may not be harmful, the plant itself contains compounds that can cause contact dermatitis, vomiting, diarrhea, and allergic reactions in some dogs. Long-term use can interfere with blood clotting.