Can my Dog Eat That? Human Foods That Are Safe (and Unsafe) for Dogs
The Truth About Table Scraps or “Human Food”
We’ve all been there, your dog gives you the look while you’re eating, and it’s tempting to slip them a bite. Sharing your food can feel like an act of love, and sometimes, it actually can be. But the truth is, not all table scraps are safe and some can be downright dangerous.
Ideally, we’d all be feeding our dogs a fresh, human-grade, real food diet. It’s what their bodies were designed to thrive on, but I also understand that for many families, that just isn’t realistic. That’s where bowl boosting comes in — adding simple, nutritious, dog-safe foods from your own kitchen can be the next best thing.
In this post, we’ll dive into the do’s and don’ts of feeding from your plate —highlighting what’s safe, what’s not, and how to turn “scraps” into smart, health-supporting additions. And because accidents happen, I’ve also created a simple, easy-access list of toxic and dangerous foods, perfect for those “oh crap” moments when your pet gets into something they shouldn’t.
Let’s turn table scraps into tools and keep our pets safe, healthy, and happy in the process. :)
NOTE: I have included a downloadable PDF guide of all of the toxic foods and emergency pet poison control phone numbers, for you to have easy access to at the end of this article.
10 human foods that are not only safe for dogs but also beneficial:
1) Blueberries:
Rich in antioxidants – Helps fight free radicals and reduce inflammation
High in fiber – Supports healthy digestion and stool quality
Low in calories – Makes a great training treat or topper
Vitamin-packed – Loaded with vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese
Serving Tip: Make sure these are wild and/or organic. Berries are on the “dirty dozen list” and can be LOADED with toxic pesticides if not organic. Use fresh or frozen (no added sugar). Start with a few berries as a treat or topper.
2) Pumpkin:
Great for digestive health – Soluble fiber helps with both constipation and diarrhea
Naturally soothing for the gut – Can ease sensitive stomachs
Low in fat, high in fiber – Supports weight management and regular bowel movements
Rich in beta-carotene & vitamin A – Boosts eye and immune health
Serving Tip: Use 100% canned plain and purred pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling). Start with 1–2 teaspoons for small dogs or 1–2 tablespoons for large dogs.
3) Sardines:
Rich in omega-3s (EPA & DHA) – Supports joint health, brain function, skin, and coat
Natural source of vitamin D – Essential for calcium absorption and bone health
Packed with protein & essential minerals – Including selenium, calcium, and phosphorus
Small, low on the food chain – Less risk of mercury and heavy metal contamination
Serving Tip: Use sardines packed in water (not oil or sauce). ½ to 1 sardine a few times a week is usually plenty for most dogs.
4) Eggs:
High-quality protein – Supports muscle development and repair
Rich in biotin & B vitamins – Promotes healthy skin, coat, and metabolism
Great source of essential amino acids – Helps support overall wellness
Budget-friendly superfood – Easily digestible and accessible
Serving Tip: Serve fully cooked (scrambled or hard-boiled, no oil or seasoning). For most dogs, ½ to 1 egg a few times per week is ideal. Avoid raw egg whites regularly, as they can interfere with biotin absorption if overused.
5) Broccoli (chopped and steamed):
Supports detoxification – Contains compounds like sulforaphane that aid liver function
High in fiber and vitamin C – Helps digestion and immune strength
Low-calorie & nutrient-dense – Great for weight management
Serving Tip: Broccoli should always be steamed or chopped very finely. This breaks down tough cell walls and reduces the risk of gas or digestive upset. Too much raw broccoli can cause GI issues due to its isothiocyanate content, so serve in moderation (no more than 10% of the total diet).
6) Green or Blue Lipped Mussels:
Natural joint support – Rich in glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s (especially EPA and DHA)
Anti-inflammatory powerhouse – Especially beneficial for aging pets or those with arthritis
High-quality protein and essential minerals – Supports muscle repair, skin health, and immune function
Sustainable and minimally processed – Often freeze-dried to preserve nutrients
Serving Tip: Use freeze-dried or cooked mussels (never raw) and serve whole or crumbled as a topper. Start with ½ a mussel for small dogs or 1–2 mussels for large dogs a few times per week. Watch for shellfish allergies when introducing.
7) Kefir:
Loaded with probiotics – Supports gut health and immune function
May help with allergies & yeast – By promoting a balanced microbiome
Natural source of calcium & B vitamins – Supports bone, nerve, and energy health
Gentler than yogurt – Lower in lactose and easier to digest for many dogs
Serving Tip: Start with 1 teaspoon for small dogs or 1–2 tablespoons for large dogs. Go slow and observe, especially if your dog is new to dairy. There is also goat kefir available at many grocery stores if you’re interested in that too!
8) Chia Seeds (soaked before serving):
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids – Supports brain health, reduces inflammation, and promotes a healthy coat
Excellent fiber source – Aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar
Contains protein, calcium, and magnesium – Supports bones, muscles, and overall vitality
Hydrophilic (absorbs water) – Helps keep pets hydrated and feeling full longer
Serving Tip: Always soak chia seeds in water before feeding to prevent digestive blockages and help with absorption. Soak 1 tsp of seeds in at least ¼ cup of water for 10–15 minutes. Use ½ tsp for small dogs and up to 1 tsp for larger dogs per day. Mix into meals as a booster.
9) Apples (no seeds or core):
High in fiber – Aids digestion and supports regular bowel movements
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C – Supports immune health
Natural sweetness – A low-calorie, hydrating treat
Serving Tip: Always remove the seeds and core (which contain cyanide). Serve thin slices or small chunks, raw or lightly steamed. A few pieces as a treat or topper is perfect.
10) Purple Sweet Potatoes:
Rich in antioxidants (anthocyanins) – Help reduce inflammation and support brain and eye health
Great source of complex carbs – Provides lasting energy without blood sugar spikes
High in fiber – Promotes gut health and healthy stools
Supports immune system – Packed with vitamins A, C, and manganese
Serving Tip: Serve cooked and mashed or cubed (baked or steamed). Do not add butter, salt, or seasonings. Start with 1–2 tablespoons for small dogs and up to ¼ cup for larger dogs.
Honorable Mentions - Bone broth IF it is pet safe, carrots, beets, green bananas & parsley (flat leaf, in small amounts)
Tips for Introducing New Foods to Your Dog
Go Slow & Steady
When trying a new food or protein, introduce it gradually over 5–10 days. Start by mixing a small amount (about 10–20%) with their current food and slowly increase the new food portion each day.Watch for Reactions
Keep an eye out for signs of digestive upset (soft stools, gas, vomiting), sensitivities (itching, licking, red ears) or even allergies. Some mild changes can be normal, but persistent symptoms may mean the food isn’t a good fit.Serve at Room Temperature
Cold food can upset the stomach, especially for sensitive pets. Let refrigerated or frozen items warm up to room temp before feeding.Avoid Mixing Too Many New Items at Once
Introduce one new food or protein at a time so you can pinpoint what your pet responds well to (or doesn’t).Start Small with Novel Foods
Adding fresh toppers like sardines, pumpkin, kefir or eggs? Start with tiny amounts to gauge tolerance and avoid overwhelming their system.Rotation Feeding Helps
One of the many reasons I have my dogs on a rotation diet is because it gives me the freedom to introduce new foods without causing digestive upset. Their systems are already adapted to variety, which helps build a stronger, more resilient gut.Support with Digestive Aids
When introducing something new, consider pairing it with a probiotic or digestive enzyme to ease the transition and support healthy digestion.
10 foods to absolutely avoid giving to your dogs
1) Chocolate:
Why it’s dangerous: Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to dogs. Dogs metabolize theobromine much more slowly than humans, allowing it to build up to dangerous levels in their system.
Toxicity level depends on:
The type of chocolate (darker = more dangerous)
The size of the dog
The amount consumed
Most toxic types:
Cocoa powder & unsweetened baking chocolate (highest theobromine levels)
Dark chocolate
Milk chocolate (lower in theobromine, but still dangerous in larger amounts)
How much is too much?
As little as 0.5 ounces of baking chocolate per 10 pounds of body weight can be dangerous.
Example: Just 1 oz of dark chocolate could seriously harm a 20 lb dog.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea
Restlessness or hyperactivity
Tremors, seizures
Elevated heart rate
Collapse in severe cases
When to seek help:
Call a vet or poison control immediately if your dog eats any chocolate, especially dark or baking chocolate. Time matters, early intervention can prevent severe complications.
2) Caffeine (Coffee, Energy Drinks, Tea, etc.):
Why it’s dangerous: Caffeine is a stimulant that affects the heart and nervous system. Dogs are far more sensitive to it than humans.
Sources include:
Coffee grounds or brewed coffee
Tea (especially black and green)
Energy drinks
Soda
Caffeine pills or supplements
Some weight-loss products and pre-workout powders
Toxic dose:
As little as 14 mg of caffeine per pound of body weight can cause symptoms.
Serious poisoning occurs around 75–100 mg/lb.
Example: One caffeine pill (200 mg) could be dangerous for a 15 lb dog.
Symptoms to watch for:
Hyperactivity, restlessness
Vomiting
Panting, elevated heart rate
Tremors, seizures
Collapse or death in severe cases
When to seek help:
Immediately call your vet or a poison hotline if your dog ingests any amount of caffeine-containing product, especially if it’s concentrated (like pills or grounds).
3) Onions, leeks and chives (Allium family):
Why they’re dangerous: These foods contain thiosulfates, which damage red blood cells and can cause hemolytic anemia—a potentially life-threatening condition.
Forms that are dangerous:
Raw
Cooked
Dried
Powdered (e.g., onion powder in baby food or seasoning)
How much is dangerous?
Toxicity can occur with as little as 0.5% of body weight in onion.
Example: A 20 lb dog only needs to eat about 1.5 oz of onion to see effects.
Symptoms to watch for (may appear 1–3 days later):
Weakness or lethargy
Pale gums
Vomiting or diarrhea
Panting or elevated heart rate
Collapse in severe cases
When to seek help:
If your dog eats any significant amount of onions, leeks, chives, or related seasonings—especially onion or garlic powder—contact your vet immediately. Delayed treatment increases the risk of anemia.
4) Gapes & Raisins:
Why they’re dangerous: Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs, but the exact toxin is still unknown. What we do know is that even small amounts can cause sudden kidney failure.
How much is dangerous?
There’s no safe amount—some dogs can react to just 1–2 grapes or a small handful of raisins. Sensitivity varies by dog, so never assume your pet will be okay.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting (often within 2–6 hours)
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pain
Dehydration
Decreased or no urine output (sign of kidney failure)
When to seek help:
Immediately. Even if your dog seems fine, don’t wait for symptoms. Kidney failure can be delayed and deadly. Contact your vet or poison control as soon as ingestion occurs.
5) Xylitol (also known as birch sugar):
Why it’s dangerous: Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candy, peanut butter, baked goods, toothpaste, mouthwash, and supplements. In dogs, it causes a rapid insulin release, leading to life-threatening hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and potential liver failure.
How much is dangerous?
As little as 0.05 grams per pound of body weight can cause hypoglycemia.
Example: One piece of gum with xylitol could kill a 10 lb dog.
Symptoms to watch for (can occur within 15–30 minutes):
Vomiting
Weakness or staggering
Tremors or seizures
Lethargy
Collapse
Yellowing gums or skin (jaundice – sign of liver damage)
When to seek help:
Immediately. This is a true emergency. Go to a vet or emergency clinic right away if xylitol ingestion is suspected.
6) Alcohol:
Why it’s dangerous: Alcohol affects dogs far more severely than humans. It can depress their nervous system, cause metabolic acidosis, and lead to coma or death—even in small doses.
Sources include:
Alcoholic beverages
Fermenting dough (produces ethanol)
Some syrups, extracts, and household cleaners
How much is dangerous?
As little as 0.5–1 oz of alcohol per 10 lbs of body weight can be life-threatening.
Fermented dough can be even more dangerous due to both alcohol and gas expansion in the stomach.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting or drooling
Lack of coordination or stumbling
Slow breathing
Hypothermia
Seizures
Loss of consciousness
When to seek help:
Immediately. Alcohol poisoning in pets is a medical emergency.
7) Macadamia nuts:
Why they’re dangerous: The exact toxin is unknown, but macadamia nuts can cause neurological issues and weakness in dogs—even in small amounts. While symptoms are typically temporary and non-fatal, they can be very alarming.
How much is dangerous?
Symptoms have been reported from as little as 0.7 grams per pound.
That’s about 6–7 nuts for a 30 lb dog.
Symptoms to watch for (within 12 hours):
Weakness (especially in the hind legs)
Vomiting
Tremors
Fever
Lethargy
Incoordination
When to seek help:
Call your vet right away. Most dogs recover with supportive care, but it’s best to be cautious and get treatment early.
8) Raw dough with yeast:
Why it’s dangerous: Raw yeast dough can rise inside your dog’s stomach, expanding and producing carbon dioxide and alcohol in the process. This leads to painful bloating, potential gastric rupture, and alcohol poisoning.
How much is dangerous?
Even small amounts of raw dough can cause severe symptoms, especially in small or medium dogs.
Symptoms to watch for:
Swollen or distended abdomen
Vomiting or retching
Disorientation, lethargy
Tremors, collapse (from alcohol toxicity)
Whining or pacing due to discomfort
When to seek help:
Immediately. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires urgent veterinary care.
9) Cooked bones:
Why they’re dangerous: Unlike raw bones, cooked bones become brittle and are prone to splintering, which can lead to:
Choking
Mouth or throat injuries
Intestinal blockages
Perforations of the stomach or intestines
Types to avoid:
Cooked chicken bones
Cooked pork ribs or beef bones
Any bone that’s been roasted, grilled, boiled, or baked
Symptoms to watch for:
Gagging, drooling, or pawing at the mouth
Vomiting
Constipation or bloody stool
Lethargy, abdominal swelling
When to seek help:
Immediately if your dog shows signs of distress or ingested sharp bone fragments. Cooked bones are a true physical hazard, not just a digestive one.
10) Avocado (skin, pits and leaves):
Why it’s risky: Avocados contain persin, a natural fungicidal toxin. While dogs are generally less sensitive to persin than other animals (like birds or horses), large amounts—especially the pit, skin, and leaves—can cause problems.
Biggest risks:
Choking or intestinal blockage from the large seed (pit)
Pancreatitis from the high fat content if fed in excess
Mild stomach upset in sensitive dogs
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting or diarrhea
Difficulty passing stool (possible blockage)
Abdominal pain or swelling
When to seek help:
If your dog ate a pit, large amount of flesh, or seems in distress, contact your vet. Small amounts of the flesh are generally safe, but moderation is key.
Honorable Mentions - Essential oils, salty snacks, fatty foods like bacon or fried foods & most dairy. Garlic is a very controversial item, so I didn’t put it on this list.
If your dog has eaten any amount of these dangerous foods, please contact the ASPCA Animal poison control center immediately and make your way to the vet while you have them on speaker or blue tooth in the car. Their phone number is 1-888-426-4435 and there is a $95 consultation fee associated with using this service. Please note that this fee is PER INCIDENT. Another option is to call the Pet Poison Helpline and they charge $89 per incident; their phone number is 1-855-764-7661.
Below are a few Items to have on hand for emergency ingestion situations. Poison control may or may not tell you to administer them but its a very good idea to keep them on hand in the event of an emergency. I have been told to administer both in different situations.
QUALITY Activated Charcoal - I sell the best one on the market in my shop, if you’re interested.
Hydrogen Peroxide - You can find this at any drug store or grocery store. I have linked one from Amazon here.
These are great items to have on hand for residual symptoms after the fact, to help restore gut health after an emergency incident has been stabilized:
Probiotics - I sell an amazing brand of probiotics in my shop. Feel free to check them out.
Psyllium Husks - You can also find a premium version of this item in my store. :)