What dogs can eat, and what they must avoid

Table scraps are how many “is this safe?” questions start. Dogs can share more of a human kitchen than wolves could, but several ordinary foods are still poisonous. This page is not a replacement for a vet.

A complete dog food should still do most of the work. Extra human food is a garnish. A useful ceiling is about 10 percent of daily calories.

Plant foods that are usually fine

• Carrots. Crunchy, low-calorie and useful as a chew. Serve raw or lightly cooked.
• Cucumber. Mostly water. A useful snack for dogs that need a lighter treat.
• Blueberries. Small, and rich in antioxidants. Give a few at a time.
• Apples. Remove the core and seeds first. The fruit itself is usually fine in slices.
• Broccoli. Only small amounts, preferably cooked. Large raw portions can upset a stomach.
• Bananas. Useful potassium, but also sugar. Keep portions modest.
• Strawberries. Fine as an occasional treat. Wash them first.
• Melon. Hydrating. Remove the rind and seeds.

Foods a dog should never get

• Chocolate and cocoa. Theobromine can be fatal. Dark chocolate is worse than milk chocolate.
• Onions and garlic. The whole onion family can damage red blood cells, cooked or raw.
• Grapes and raisins. Can cause kidney failure even in small amounts.
• Xylitol. Found in sugar-free gum, sweets and some baked goods. It can drop blood sugar very fast.
• Alcohol. Dogs are poisoned by far smaller amounts than people.
• Avocado stone and skin. These parts contain persin and are a choking risk as well.
• Caffeine. Coffee, tea and energy drinks can cause heart and nervous-system problems.