What Can Dogs Not Eat? | 110 Foods That Can Be Harmful!

Did you know your dog’s adorable beg for table scraps could be a plea for danger?

We love to share with our furry pals, but some human foods can make dogs very sick, or even much worse.

The innocent act of giving your dog a piece of your snack could turn into a trip to the vet.

It’s more important than ever for dog owners to understand what foods to keep away from their four-legged friends.

In this list, we share 110 foods that could risk your dog’s health.

Knowing these foods could be the key to your dog’s safety and wellbeing.

So, let’s delve into the world of doggy don’ts and ensure a safe and happy life for our furry family members.

Acorns

They contain tannins that can upset your dog’s digestive system. In smaller dogs, they may also result in an obstruction of the intestines.

Almonds

Dogs can’t digest almonds as we humans. Therefore, they aren’t healthy at all for our furry friends.

Animal Cracker

Dogs should not eat Animal Crackers because they contain high amounts of sugar, salt, calories, and carbohydrates. 

Apple Cores

Apple cores and seeds can be dangerous for dogs. A small amount of cyanide is released when apple seeds are chewed or broken. Remove it before giving your dog some apples.

Bacon

Yes, dogs love bacon. But it’s very unhealthy: bacon is high in fat and salt. That is unhealthy but can also be difficult for a dog’s stomach to handle.

Blue Cheese

Never give your dog blue cheese. Dogs can be susceptible to a substance called roquefortine C, produced by the fungus used to make blue cheeses like Stilton.

Bologna

Bologna frequently contains additives that could be harmful to your dog. It’s best to avoid serving bologna to your dog.

Bones

All bones risk choking if your dog swallows them without thoroughly chewing them, and too-hard bones can harm their teeth. If you want to give bones to your dog, buy some extra dog bones in the pet store.

Butter

Even though butter is safe for dogs, it has no health benefits, and the high-fat content poses serious health risks.

Cake

The cake is very unhealthy for dogs; they shouldn’t eat it. The cake comes in a variety of flavors, including chocolate cake and cake with raisins, both of which are toxic to dogs. Also, all cakes contain calories, fat, sugar, and other unhealthy ingredients.

Candy

Candies are sweetened with xylitol. It can result in liver failure and a drop in your dog’s blood sugar.

Cat Food

It’s not a good food alternative for dogs. An unbalanced diet can cause pancreatitis, obesity, and digestive problems.

Candy Canes

Even sugar-free candy canes shouldn’t be given to dogs as treats. Candy canes are not suitable dog treats under any circumstances because they have little to no nutritional value and can lead to several dangerous health issues for your dog.

Caramel

As a rule of thumb, dogs shouldn’t eat caramel. Although it is not toxic to dogs, your pet may experience short- and long-term health problems due to the high sugar content. The stomach upset from caramel candies can lead to more serious conditions like pancreatitis or dental disease.

Cheerios

They don’t offer many benefits, but they also won’t hurt your dog. Wholegrain oats, which are a large portion of the ingredients in Cheerios, are not essential for your pet’s diet. As a result, mass-produced Cheerio treats function only as filler—they’re just empty calories.

Cheesecake

This yummy cake is totally unhealthy due to high sugar and unhealthy ingredients. Therefore, dogs can not eat cheesecake.

Cheetos

Dogs shouldn’t eat Cheetos. The snack contains many empty calories, chemical additives, and low-quality saturated fats, which are far from essential for your dog’s well-being.

Cheezits

These crackers contain nothing that will provide your dog with any nutritional advantages. They are high in enriched flour, vegetable oil, cheese, and salt. All of these things are unhealthy for dogs.

Cherries

Cherry pits stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which is poisonous and can be fatal if consumed in large enough quantities. That is the leading risk associated with cherries. Cherry pits can also stick in the digestive system and obstruct its intestines.

Chicken Nuggets

Chicken nuggets contain fat and other harmful things to dogs’ bodies. So don’t share your chicken nuggets with your furry friend.

Chips

Sharing salty foods like chips with your dog is not a good idea. A dog who consumes too much salt may become extremely thirsty. That calls for frequent visits to the fire hydrant and may cause sodium ion poisoning.

Cicadas

Dogs frequently eat these bumbling insects. A dog’s digestive system can suffer significantly from eating too many of its exoskeletons and shells because they are difficult to digest.

Cinnamon Rolls

Dogs should not eat cinnamon rolls because they are high in sugar and fat and can cause indigestion in dogs. Too much fat can result in pancreatitis, which can be painful or even fatal. While cinnamon is safe for dogs, excessive consumption may adversely affect the digestive system or other organs.

Chocolate

Chocolate is toxic to dogs due to its theobromine content. This is highest in dark chocolate and lower in white – but no chocolate is safe. The severity of the toxicity depends on how much chocolate is eaten – symptoms range from an upset stomach to convulsions and even death.

Corncobs

These are a common cause of severe intestinal blockages but are also choking hazards. It would be best if you didn’t give your dog this to chew on.

Corned Beef

Although the beef used to make corned beef is not toxic or poisonous to dogs, the method used to make it results in a food that is too high in sodium for dogs.

Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas have minimal nutritional value for your dog but can be fed in small amounts.

Cotton Candy

Cotton candy without added sugar could be toxic to your dog. Advertising “sugar-free” cotton candy frequently includes artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Standard cotton candy containing sugar is also not ideal, as it can cause an upset stomach and affect your dog’s teeth. That’s why dogs can not eat cotton candy.

Cream Cheese

Dogs shouldn’t eat cream cheese because it is high in fat and calories, contributing to stomach upsets, pancreatitis, and obesity. Also, a lot of cream cheese includes onion and garlic, and these are toxic to dogs. 

Donuts

Donuts contain some ingredients that are harmful to dogs when consumed in large quantities. Excessive sugar and fat intake can cause pancreatitis in dogs. Dogs receive no nutritional benefit from donuts.

Doritos

It would be best if you didn’t feed your dog Doritos. These salty snacks are high in fat and can easily cause an upset stomach. In addition, some flavors may contain garlic or onion powder which is toxic.

Fig Newtons

Dogs can not eat Fig Newtons as they’re not toxic – but they shouldn’t have many because they’re full of sugar and salt and can cause weight gain

Figs

Dogs can eat figs in moderation – they’re a source of fiber and other nutrients and can help digestion. However, excessive intake can cause stomach problems.

French Fries

This human food has no nutritional value to benefit your dog’s health, and consuming too much could have adverse health effects due to high fat and salt levels.

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is extremely high in fat and is likely to cause an upset stomach and potentially pancreatitis. That means if your dog eats (too much) fried chicken, that can lead to inflammation of the pancreas, causing that organ to release enzymes that can seriously harm your pet’s intestines.

Funyuns

Dogs can’t eat Funyuns because they’re high in fat and salt and flavored with onion powder, which is toxic to dogs. Your dog is unlikely to die from one or two – but it’s best to avoid feeding them. 

Garlic

Garlic in all forms is toxic to the dog (just like onions). Garlic powder is especially concentrated. If your dog eats garlic, ring your vet for advice.

Garlic Bread

Garlic is very toxic to dogs, so avoid giving your dog garlic bread! Additionally, garlic bread may contain too much butter, salt, and oil for a pet.

Ginger Bread

Nutmeg is present in gingerbread, which dogs should never consume. In addition, dogs who eat gingerbread may experience stomach upset for hours or even days afterward.

Goldfish Crackers

Don’t feed dogs Goldfish crackers. They’re not a healthy treat for dogs. They contain ingredients like onion and garlic that are dangerous if consumed in large quantities.

Graham Crackers

They are unhealthy due to their high sugar and calorie content, which can lead to obesity and dental problems.

Granola

Dogs don’t need extra whole grains in their food. Also, most granola contains a lot of sugar, which makes it unhealthy for dogs. Some granola may also contain nuts or raisins, which aren’t good for your dog.

Grapefruit

Your dog may experience problems after eating grapefruit, such as loose stools and vomiting. Grapefruit is high in citric acid content and can upset your dog’s digestive system.

Grapes

Never give your dog grapes. Some dogs are fine after eating grapes – but others can develop acute kidney failure after eating a single grape. It’s impossible to know whether this will affect your dog or not – so grapes (and raisins) are best avoided. 

Guacamole

Don’t share guacamole with your dog. They mostly contain onion and garlic, which are toxic to dogs.

Gum

Due to dogs’ extreme sensitivity to xylitol, just one stick of gum could be fatal to a small dog. Typically, it takes 0.05 grams of xylitol per pound of body weight for dogs to become poisoned. The amount of xylitol in a piece of chewing gum ranges from 0.22 to 1.0 grams. Even without xylitol, the gum may cause an upset stomach.

Gummy Bears

Don’t share gummy bears with your furry friend. They are full of sugar, which is unhealthy for your dog’s body and teeth.

Hash Browns

Dogs should not eat hash browns. They are unhealthy for your dog’s body because they are high in salt, calories, and saturated fats and often contain toxic onion. Giving your dog hash browns can cause digestive upset or long-term health problems like pancreatitis.

Honey Nut Cheerios

They contain too much sugar for your dog. That can lead to weight gain, dental issues, diabetes, and arthritis. That’s the reason why dogs can not eat honey nut cheerios.

Hot Cheetos

Eating Hot Cheetos is unlikely to kill your dog, but it may make them sick. It will lead to gastrointestinal issues, burning sensations, and dehydration.

Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are not a good choice for your dog. Hot dogs are high in unhealthy fats, which can lead to stomach upset and pancreatitis.

Hummus

The chickpeas in hummus would be ok for your dog to eat, but it also contains garlic and/or onion, which are toxic to dogs.  

Ice Cream

Depending on their sensitivity, eating ice cream may give your dog an upset stomach or even worse. After eating ice cream, your dog may experience gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or vomiting. Again, high-fat foods like ice cream can also contribute to pancreatitis.

Imitation Crab

A small amount of this is unlikely to be a problem, but the added sugar, sodium, binders, and other additives may make your dog feel unwell or even experience GI distress.

Jalapenos

Jalapenos are too spicy for dogs to eat without experiencing negative effects. Although they are not poisonous to dogs, jalapenos can harm your dog’s health. The capsaicin in jalapenos can upset your dog’s stomach and cause other digestive problems.

Jello

Jello is not ideal for your dog because it is high in sugar. Giving your dog Jello (and too much Jello specifically) could cause an upset stomach. 

Jelly

Sugar, which makes up most of the jelly, is not good for your dog in large doses. In addition, some sugar-free jellies containing xylitol are toxic to dogs. 

Kale

The leafy green contains several naturally occurring substances that may be harmful, such as calcium oxalate and isothiocyanates. Stomach irritation and kidney and bladder stones are among the health problems that excessive kale consumption can lead to, although a small amount is unlikely to cause a significant problem.

Ketchup

It’s unhealthy for dogs because of its high sugar and salt. Also, most ketchup includes onion powder and garlic powder, which are toxic to dogs.

Lemon Pepper

Dogs can not eat lemon pepper due to the potential harm it can cause to their digestive system. Lemon and pepper, in large amounts, can cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea.

Lemons

Large quantities of lemons are not suitable for dogs’ systems. The fruit may lead to digestive issues and isn’t usually something a dog will want to eat.

Licorice Candy

Black and red licorice are not healthy for dogs and could be very harmful to your dog’s health; they should be avoided.

Lime

Dogs don’t tend to want to eat these – and the essential oils found in limes, such as limonene and linalool, and phototoxic substances known as psoralens can be toxic.

Macadamia Nuts

These are toxic for your dog and should never be fed to them. The consequences of eating macadamia nuts include vomiting, coordination problems, weakness, depression, and more.

Mac And Cheese

Dogs should not eat mac and cheese. Reasons for it are the lactose, high-fat content, and high calories for your dog.

Mango Skin

Although dogs can technically consume the skin, it is preferable to remove it first because it can be challenging to digest. Mango pits, on the other hand, can lodge in your dog’s digestive system and pose a serious choking risk.

Marshmallows

Marshmallows contain too much sugar for your furry friend. Some marshmallows also have sweeteners, which can be very toxic to dogs.

Mayo

Mayonnaise and other high-fat foods can cause dogs to have diarrhea, upset stomachs, or more severe health problems like pancreatitis.

Mustard

Because it contains mustard seeds, mustard is highly harmful to dogs. Toxic substances found in mustard seeds can cause dogs to develop severe gastrointestinal problems.

Nectarines

Nectarines are rich in vitamins and minerals and aren’t toxic to dogs. However, they are high in sugar and shouldn’t be a major part of a dog’s diet. The stone found in nectarines could also cause an intestinal blockage, so this should be removed before feeding.

Nutella

Hazelnut spread Nutella contains cocoa powder, which is poisonous to dogs because it contains theobromine. Even though a tablespoon of Nutella has a much lower theobromine content than a chocolate bar, it is still best to keep your dog away from this treat. It’s unhealthy to your dog and therefore, dogs can not eat Nutella.

Onions

Dogs should avoid eating any part and form of onions. Whether raw or cooked, fried or powdered, onions and the rest of the allium family (garlic, shallots, leeks, and chives) are toxic to dogs.

Oreos

Dogs shouldn’t eat any Oreos because they are full of sugar and high in calories, leading to weight gain and upset stomachs.

Pancakes

Pancake batter is usually pretty safe for dogs – but they aren’t a nutritious food for your dog and can be high in fat, so it should only be fed in small amounts.

Pecans

Pecans are toxic to dogs, as they can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea. They may also contain molds that could be toxic to your dog and, due to their small size, could cause choking.

Pepper

Black pepper is not toxic for dogs, but it can lead to stomach upset in dogs.

Peppermint

For your dog, peppermint can be extremely harmful. While small quantities are unlikely to cause a major problem, eating peppermint can result in a variety of reactions, two of which are nausea and diarrhea. Peppermint oil is very toxic and could even be fatal if not treated quickly.

Pesto

The pesto itself would be safe for your dog to eat, but the garlic it contains is highly toxic for your dog. So, avoid feeding it pesto.

Pirates Booty

Pirate’s Booty is a brand of puffed rice and corn snacks that are often seasoned with cheese or other flavors. While Pirate’s Booty may not be toxic to dogs, it is not a recommended treat as it is high in fat, salt, and carbohydrates, which can cause digestive problems and lead to obesity if given in large amounts. It’s always best to stick to dog-specific treats that are formulated for their nutritional needs.

Pizza

Although most pizza isn’t toxic, it’s a very unhealthy meal you shouldn’t share with your dog. It contains a lot of salt and fat, both bad for your dog’s health. Pizza may also contain garlic and onion, which are toxic.

Plums

Plum fruit is safe for dogs in small quantities, though high in sugar. However, the stems and pits contain toxins, including cyanide and amygdalin, so they should be kept away from your dog.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates aren’t toxic to dogs, but the rinds and stems aren’t easily digested and can cause an obstruction if eaten, especially by smaller dogs. Clumps of seeds could also cause choking.

Poppyseeds

Morphine and codeine are alkaloids found in poppies, and most of the poppy plant is toxic to dogs. Poppy seeds aren’t generally deemed toxic to dogs unless eaten in large amounts – but it’s best to avoid feeding them at all if possible. 

Pork Rinds

Pork rinds are high in fat and salt, which can be harmful to your dog. Therefore, dogs can not eat pork rinds.

Potato Chips

Avoid sharing fatty, salty foods like potato chips with your furry friend. The high salt amount makes your dog very thirsty, and your dog can get dehydrated, while the high-fat content can upset their stomach.

Pretzels

Pretzels are very unhealthy for dogs due to the high salt content they have. Remember: too much sodium can be toxic for dogs.

Prunes

Prunes contain a lot of sugar and fiber, which can upset a dog’s stomach. The pit, leaves, and stems should never be eaten.

Pumpkin Pie

It contains ingredients that are unsafe for dogs to consume in large quantities. The good news is that the pumpkin itself isn’t the issue, so you can share the pumpkin with your dog.

Ranch

Dogs should never eat Ranch; the integrands aren’t safe for dogs. The Ranch contains lactose and toxic dog ingredients, like chives and garlic powder.

Raw Bacon

There is a slight possibility that the meat may have parasites or bacteria that could make your dog ill, just like any other raw pork product.

Raw Chicken

Don’t feed your dog raw chicken meat; it can be a source of bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can cause stomach problems in dogs the same way they do in humans.

Raw Eggs

Raw eggs are dangerous to dogs. They can expose dogs to harmful salmonella, spreading back to dog owners.

Raw Salmon

Never give raw or undercooked salmon to your dog. The parasite Neorickettsia helminthoeca, which causes salmon poisoning disease, may be present. That could be very bad for your dog.

Refried Beans

Refried beans frequently have unhealthy levels of fat, sodium, calories, preservatives, and toxic ingredients to dogs (like onions and garlic).

Ritz Crackers

Ritz crackers can be harmful to your dog due to their high sugar and salt content. However, a very small amount is unlikely to cause a problem. Dogs with wheat allergies shouldn’t eat Ritz crackers.

Salt

All animals need low levels of salt in their diet – but you shouldn’t add salt to your dog’s food or feed excessively salty foods, as this can cause illness.

Saltine Crackers

Don’t share your saltine crackers with your dog. Due to their high salt and calorie amount, dogs can not eat saltine crackers.

Sausage

Don’t give dogs sausages. They contain unhealthy amounts of fat and sodium and might also have seasonings like garlic that harm dogs.

Shrimp Tails

Due to the choking risk and potential damage to your dog’s intestines that shrimp shells and tails pose, dogs cannot eat them.

Skittles

Candies with xylitol, chocolate, or raisins can be fatal for your dog. Dogs can not eat Skittles because they have little nutritional value, are high in sugar and can be toxic!

Slim Jims

It’s a good idea to avoid giving slim jims to dogs. When dogs consume excessive slim jims, the high sodium and fat content can cause health issues, what’s the reason why dogs can not eat slim jims.

Soy sauce

Soy sauce contains a lot of sodium, and consuming too much sodium could seriously harm your pet. Ensure your dog gets plenty of water if you discover he has licked up some soy sauce.

Spicy Food

Spicy foods may be toxic to dogs and may result in stomach discomfort, diarrhea, and gas.

Sprinkles

Dogs can’t eat sprinkles because they are high in sugar. Too much sugar is bad for humans and dogs: it can contribute to obesity and is bad for teeth. So please don’t give sugar to your dog.

Sugar

Too much sugar does the same to us humans: it leads to being overweight, is bad for teeth, and can also be the reason for diabetes. So please don’t give sugar to your dog.

Sushi

Some ingredients of sushi aren’t safe for dogs to eat. Especially tempura and wasabi are not suitable for dogs. That’s the reason why you should avoid sharing it with your dog.

Takis

When dogs eat Takis they can experience stomach problems, such as diarrhea, abdominal bloating, gas, and pain. Takis contain chili and onion powder, which can be bad for a dog’s digestive system and irritate its mouth and throat.

Tomato sauce

Always avoid tomato soups and sauces in jars or cans because they may contain harmful additives for your dog. They’ll probably contain salt, sugar, and harmful ingredients like garlic and onions.

Tortilla Chips

Don’t feed dogs Tortilla Chips. They contain a lot of salt, which can be bad for your dog. Tortilla chips are also fried foods with a lot of calories.

Tortillas

Please don’t share tortillas with your dog. They don’t have great nutritional value but aren’t toxic and can be fed in moderation.

Twizzlers

They are not healthy for dogs due to their high sugar content. Given the effects of high sugar intake on humans, your dog may experience stomach and dental issues, some of which may be severe. Therefore, dogs can not eat twizzlers.

Vanilla

Never give vanilla to your dog; it’s highly toxic due to its high alcohol content. Even a tiny amount of vanilla can be hazardous – however, it’s usually fine after cooking as the alcohol evaporates.

Waffles

The majority of waffle varieties are high in calories. High-calorie diets contribute to obesity which is a major health issue for dogs.

Dimitra Kokologianni, DVM
Dimitra holds a Masters’s degree in public health and a Bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine. She is a versatile professional with over 7 years of experience. Her passion for animal welfare and preventive medicine makes her an excellent resource for our readers.