Foods You Should Never Give to Your Dog

Keep your furry friend safe by avoiding these common  and dangerous foods.

As pet parents, we love to treat our dogs like family, which often means sharing our snacks and meals. But not everything that’s safe for humans is safe for dogs. In fact, some everyday foods can cause serious health issues  even in small amounts.

Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or just looking to be more mindful, here’s a list of common foods you should never feed your dog, and what you can give instead.

❌ 1. Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs especially dark or baking chocolate. It can lead to vomiting, restlessness, rapid breathing, and even seizures.

Safe Alternative: Dog-friendly carob treats or peanut butter dog biscuits.

❌ 2. Grapes & Raisins
Even a small amount of grapes or raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. This reaction can be severe and unpredictable.

Watch out: Some granola bars and trail mixes contain raisins.

❌ 3. Onions & Garlic
Raw, cooked, powdered all forms of onions and garlic can damage your dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms may include weakness and vomiting.

Instead: Stick to plain cooked meat or vegetables like carrots and green beans.

❌ 4. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
Often found in sugar-free gum, candy, and even some peanut butter brands, xylitol causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.

Check labels: Always make sure treats are xylitol-free before sharing.

❌ 5. Cooked Bones
Cooked bones especially from chicken or turkey can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

Better option: Tough rubber chew toys or edible dental chews from our Dog & Puppy Toys collection.

❌ 6. Avocado
Avocados contain a substance called persin, which can cause stomach upset in some dogs. The large seed is also a choking hazard.

❌ 7. Caffeine
Coffee, energy drinks, and certain teas can overstimulate your dog’s heart and nervous system. It’s best to keep all caffeinated products out of reach.

 Safe Treating Tips for Dog Owners
Stick to dog-specific treats designed for their size and dietary needs.

Introduce new treats gradually to monitor any reactions.

Always keep a list of vet-approved foods nearby (or pinned to your fridge).

Looking for fun, safe ways to reward your pup? Explore our collection of Dog & Puppy Toys and accessories because treats aren’t just about food!