Toxic Foods for Dogs: What You Should Never Feed Your Pup

As dog owners, we all want to share our favourite treats with our furry friends. However, not all human foods are safe for dogs—some can be extremely toxic, leading to severe health issues or even fatal consequences. To keep your pup safe, it's crucial to be aware of common foods that should never be on their menu.

In this guide, we'll cover some of the most dangerous foods for dogs and explain why they should be avoided.

1. Avocado

🚫 No, dogs should avoid avocado.

Avocados contain persin, a toxin found in the pit, skin, and leaves, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. Even the flesh, which contains less persin, can be too much for dogs to handle due to its high-fat content, potentially leading to pancreatitis.

✔️ Safer alternative: If you want your dog to enjoy avocado benefits, look for dog treats made with avocado oil, which is processed safely for dogs.

2. Cherries

🚫 No, dogs should not eat cherries.

Cherry pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which prevents oxygen from properly reaching a dog's cells. This can cause difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, and red gums, signalling cyanide poisoning—a life-threatening emergency.

✔️ Safer alternative: If you want your dog to enjoy cherries, opt for cherry-flavoured dog treats without pits or stems.

3. Grapes & Raisins

🚫 No, dogs should never eat grapes.

Even in small amounts, grapes and raisins can lead to acute kidney failure in dogs. The exact toxic substance in grapes remains unknown, but all dogs are at risk, regardless of breed or age. If your dog eats grapes, contact a vet immediately.

✔️ Safer alternative: Offer blueberries as a safe, antioxidant-rich snack.

4. Tomatoes

🚫 No, dogs should avoid tomatoes.

While ripe tomatoes are generally safe, the green parts of the tomato plant contain solanine, a toxic substance that can cause stomach upset and lethargy. It's best to keep tomatoes off your dog's plate to avoid any risks.

✔️ Safer alternative: Look for dog-safe tomato treats designed for pets.

5. Onions & Garlic

🚫 No, dogs should never eat onions or garlic.

Onions, garlic, leeks, and chives belong to the Allium family, which is highly toxic to dogs. These foods can cause red blood cell damage, anaemia, vomiting, diarrhoea, and weakness. Even small amounts can be harmful, and symptoms may take days to appear.

✔️ Safer alternative: Use dog-friendly herbs like parsley or basil for added flavour in their meals.

6. Chocolate

🚫 No, dogs should never eat chocolate.

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure, muscle tremors, and seizures. Dark and baking chocolates have the highest toxicity levels. If your dog eats chocolate, contact a vet immediately.

✔️ Safer alternative: Carob-based dog-safe chocolate treats are a great substitute.

7. Macadamia Nuts

🚫 No, dogs should never eat macadamia nuts.

Macadamia nuts can affect a dog’s nervous system, joints, and digestive health, causing vomiting, weakness, tremors, and depression. Even small amounts can trigger symptoms, making them one of the most toxic nuts for dogs.

✔️ Safer alternative: Offer unsalted peanuts or cashews in moderation, as they are safer for dogs.

8. Xylitol

🚫 No, dogs should never consume xylitol.

Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in gum, candy, baked goods, and toothpaste. It can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, liver failure, seizures, and even death. Symptoms appear quickly, so immediate veterinary care is crucial.

✔️ Safer alternative: Choose natural fruits like apples or bananas as sweet treats for your pup.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your dog safe starts with knowing which foods to avoid. While sharing food with your pup can be tempting, it's always best to stick to vet-approved treats and a well-balanced dog diet. If you ever suspect your dog has eaten something toxic, contact a veterinarian immediately.

A healthy dog is a happy dog—let’s keep them safe and thriving! 🐶❤️