What Human Foods Can Dogs Eat? (And What to Avoid)

Can I Share My Food With My Dog?

It's hard to resist those puppy eyes when you're eating — but not all human foods are safe for dogs. Some are perfectly fine as occasional treats, while others can be seriously toxic. Here's your go-to guide for what's safe and what to keep well out of reach.

✅ Foods Dogs CAN Eat

Carrots

A fantastic low-calorie snack that's great for teeth. Dogs love the crunch! Serve raw or cooked, without seasoning.

Cooked Chicken or Turkey

Plain, boneless, cooked chicken or turkey is a great protein source and easy on sensitive stomachs. Avoid any seasoning, garlic, or onion.

Rice (Plain, Cooked)

White rice is gentle on the digestive system and often recommended by vets when dogs have an upset stomach.

Eggs

Cooked eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats. Scrambled or boiled — just skip the butter and salt.

Apples (Without Seeds)

Apples are a good source of vitamins A and C. Always remove the core and seeds, which contain small amounts of cyanide.

Peanut Butter (Xylitol-Free)

Dogs go crazy for peanut butter — and it's fine in moderation. Always check the label to make sure it doesn't contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Blueberries

Packed with antioxidants and safe for dogs. A great training treat!

Watermelon (Seedless)

A hydrating summer treat — just remove the seeds and rind first.

Cooked Sweet Potato

Rich in fibre and vitamins. Serve plain and cooked — never raw.

Cucumber

Low in calories and refreshing. A good snack for dogs that need to watch their weight.

❌ Foods Dogs Should NEVER Eat

Chocolate

One of the most well-known dog toxins. Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs can't metabolise. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, seizures, and in severe cases, death.

Grapes and Raisins

Even small amounts can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. The exact toxic compound is still unknown, which makes this especially dangerous — there's no "safe" amount.

Onions and Garlic

All forms — raw, cooked, powdered — are toxic to dogs. They damage red blood cells and can cause anaemia. This includes leeks and chives too.

Xylitol

This artificial sweetener is found in sugar-free gum, some peanut butters, baked goods, and even some medications. It causes a rapid drop in blood sugar and can lead to liver failure.

Macadamia Nuts

Can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and fever in dogs. Even a small amount can make your dog very ill.

Avocado

Contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. The pit is also a choking hazard.

Alcohol

Even tiny amounts of alcohol can cause serious harm — vomiting, disorientation, breathing difficulties, and worse. Keep all alcoholic drinks away from pets.

Cooked Bones

Cooked bones splinter easily and can cause choking, internal punctures, or blockages. Raw bones (given under supervision) are generally safer, but always check with your vet first.

Caffeine

Coffee, tea, energy drinks — all toxic to dogs. Caffeine can cause rapid heart rate, tremors, and seizures.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

If you suspect your dog has eaten something harmful, act quickly. Contact your vet or an emergency animal poison helpline immediately. Don't wait for symptoms to appear — early treatment makes a big difference.

The Golden Rule

When in doubt, don't share. Stick to dog-approved treats and food, and always introduce new foods gradually. Your dog's digestive system is different from yours — what's a healthy snack for you could be dangerous for them.

At PawCentral, we stock a wide range of healthy, vet-approved treats so you can spoil your pup safely!