21 Human Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs

Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes

Chocolate is highly toxic and can lead to severe health issues.
Xylitol causes dangerous insulin spikes, leading to hypoglycemia.
Grapes, raisins, and other dried fruits can cause kidney failure.
Onions and garlic can damage red blood cells, resulting in anemia.
Always check food labels to safeguard your furry friends.

The Dangers Hiding in Your Pantry

Dogs can suffer from poisoning and severe illnesses due to various foods many people consume daily. This article will outline the specific human foods that are toxic to dogs, explaining their harmful effects based on reputable research findings. By staying informed, you can take proactive measures to protect your dog—keeping them healthy, happy, and safe.

1. Chocolate

Chocolate has long been known as a notorious toxic substance for dogs. It contains two components, theobromine and caffeine, which are significantly harmful and can even lead to death. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures, with darker chocolates posing higher risks due to their increased theobromine content. Source: Cuddle Clones, Source: AKC.

2. Xylitol

A common sugar substitute used in products like sugar-free gum and peanut butter, xylitol can cause a dangerous insulin spike in dogs. This reaction leads to rapid hypoglycemia, which may result in seizures and potentially liver failure. Even small amounts can be lethal—making it crucial for pet owners to read labels carefully. Source: Cuddle Clones, Source: Blue Cross.

3. Grapes, Raisins, Sultanas, Currants

These seemingly harmless fruits can lead to severe kidney failure in dogs, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. The exact toxic compound remains unidentified, but the danger they pose is clear. Even a small number of these fruits can be extremely harmful. Source: Animal Emergency Service, Source: EVCC.

4. Onions, Garlic, Chives, Leek

These common culinary ingredients contain organosulphoxides that damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms may include lethargy, pale gums, and even collapse. It’s essential to consider that these foods can be toxic in all forms—raw, cooked, powdered, or processed. Source: Animal Emergency Service, Source: Blue Cross.

5. Alcohol

Contrary to popular belief, even small amounts of alcohol can pose serious risks to dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, central nervous system depression, and potentially death. It is not just beer and spirits—alcohol is also present in foods and some medicines. Source: EVCC.

6. Macadamia Nuts

Even a handful of these nuts can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and abdominal pain in dogs. While not all nuts are equally toxic, macadamia nuts have been identified as particularly dangerous. Source: Animal Emergency Service, Source: Blue Cross.

7. Avocado

Avocados contain persin, which can lead to vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Furthermore, the pit can pose a choking hazard. It’s best to avoid sharing this nutritious fruit with dogs. Source: Blue Cross.

8. Cooked Bones

While not chemically toxic, cooked bones are a physical hazard that can splinter and cause blockages or choking. They can also cause tears in the digestive tract. Source: EVCC.

9. Raw Dough (with yeast)

Uncooked dough containing yeast can ferment in a dog’s stomach. This process produces alcohol and causes extreme bloating, vomiting, and the risk of stomach rupture. Source: EVCC.

10. Caffeine

Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and some medications. It can lead to a rapid heart rate, tremors, seizures, and even death in dogs. Source: EVCC.

11. Fatty/Greasy Foods

High-fat foods, such as fatty meats and pizza, can lead to stomach upset or pancreatitis—a dangerous inflammation of the pancreas that requires immediate veterinary attention. Source: EVCC, Source: Blue Cross.

12. Milk and Milk-based Products

Most dogs are lactose intolerant, so consuming milk and dairy products can lead to diarrhea, cramps, and general digestive upset. Source: Animal Emergency Service.

13. Cinnamon

While not strictly toxic, cinnamon can irritate a dog’s mouth and digestive tract, causing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. It may also lead to low blood sugar levels. Source: AKC.

14. Nuts (other than macadamia)

Almonds can pose serious risks by causing choking or tearing in the esophagus or intestines—particularly if they are salted. Other types of nuts are often high in fat and may trigger pancreatitis. Source: AKC.

15. Raw Eggs

Feeding raw eggs can lead to salmonella infections and biotin deficiencies in dogs due to the avidin present in egg whites. Source: Cuddle Clones.

16. Raw or Undercooked Meat

Like raw eggs, raw or undercooked meat can harbor bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, resulting in severe digestive distress. Source: Cuddle Clones.

17. Salty Foods

Excess salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning, with symptoms including excessive thirst, urination, vomiting, and seizures. Source: Cuddle Clones.

18. Mushrooms (wild)

Certain wild mushrooms can be extremely toxic, potentially leading to organ failure and death. It’s best to avoid them entirely, even the store-bought varieties. Source: Cuddle Clones.

19. Citrus Fruits (peels, seeds, stems)

Citrus fruits can irritate a dog’s digestive tract, causing vomiting or depression. In larger quantities, they can result in central nervous system depression. Source: Cuddle Clones, Source: AKC.

20. Nutmeg

Nutmeg contains myristicin, which poses a risk of hallucinations, an increased heart rate, disorientation, and potential seizures. Source: Cuddle Clones.

21. Blue Cheese & Other Moldy Foods

Certain types of moldy cheeses can be dangerous for dogs; they contain roquefortine, a toxin that can lead to vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Source: Cuddle Clones.

Conclusion: Protect Your Pet’s Health

Understanding the 21 human foods that are toxic to dogs is essential for all pet owners. By being aware of these dangers, you can take necessary precautions to keep your furry friend safe.

While the information provided highlights the risks associated with these foods, it’s also a reminder of the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and providing dogs with safe, nutritious treats. Your pet deserves the best, and with awareness, you can help safeguard their health.

Call to Action

If you need professional guidance on keeping your dog safe while optimizing their nutrition, our expert pet consulting services are here to help. Aren’t sure if a food item is safe for your canine companion? Feel free to reach out to us for personalized consultations on nutrition and wellness for your pet. Together, let’s work towards a happier, healthier life for your furry friends!

21 Human Foods That Are Toxic to Dogs