Top 10 Foods Dogs Should Never Eat

1. Chocolate

Chocolate may be a beloved treat for humans, but it’s one of the most well-known toxins for dogs—and for good reason. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to dogs even in small amounts. The darker and more bitter the chocolate, the more dangerous it is. Baking chocolate and dark chocolate are the most lethal, but even milk chocolate can cause harm if enough is ingested.

When a dog eats chocolate, symptoms usually begin within six to twelve hours. These can include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, elevated heart rate, tremors, and seizures. In severe cases, it can lead to coma or death. There is no antidote for chocolate toxicity, so early veterinary intervention is critical. If your dog consumes chocolate, call your vet or emergency clinic immediately—don’t wait for symptoms to appear.

2. Grapes and Raisins

They may seem like a healthy snack, but grapes and raisins are incredibly toxic to dogs. What’s especially alarming is that scientists still don’t know exactly why these fruits cause such severe reactions or why some dogs are more sensitive than others. Even small amounts can lead to acute kidney failure.

The signs of toxicity often begin with vomiting and lethargy, followed by decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and changes in urination. If untreated, the kidneys can shut down completely within days. There is no safe amount of grapes or raisins, so never offer them to your dog—even as part of baked goods like cookies or breads. If you suspect your dog has eaten even a single grape, seek veterinary help immediately.

3. Onions and Garlic

While flavorful in human meals, onions and garlic contain compounds called thiosulfates that can destroy a dog’s red blood cells and lead to hemolytic anemia. All forms—raw, cooked, powdered, or dehydrated—are dangerous. Garlic is considered to be about five times more potent than onions.

Toxicity from onions and garlic can take a few days to appear, making it harder to identify the cause. Symptoms include weakness, lethargy, pale gums, rapid breathing, dark-colored urine, and collapse. Dogs who consume large amounts or small amounts over time may require blood transfusions or intensive care. Even baby food containing garlic powder can be harmful, so read labels carefully.

4. Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, candies, toothpaste, baked goods, peanut butter, and even some over-the-counter medications. It’s extremely dangerous for dogs because it causes a rapid release of insulin, which can lead to a sudden and dramatic drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia). In higher doses, it can also cause liver failure.

Symptoms of xylitol poisoning can occur within 30 minutes and include vomiting, loss of coordination, weakness, tremors, and seizures. Without swift treatment, xylitol ingestion can be fatal. If you suspect your dog has consumed anything sugar-free, get to the vet right away and bring the product label with you if possible.

5. Alcohol

While it might seem obvious that alcohol isn’t safe for dogs, some pet owners underestimate the dangers or accidentally leave drinks where dogs can reach them. Alcohol affects dogs much more rapidly than it does humans. Even small quantities can lead to alcohol poisoning.

Dogs who ingest alcohol may exhibit confusion, drooling, vomiting, tremors, difficulty walking, decreased heart rate, and in extreme cases, respiratory failure or coma. This includes alcoholic beverages as well as alcohol-based products like hand sanitizers, mouthwash, and uncooked yeast dough (which ferments in the stomach and produces ethanol). Never allow your dog access to alcohol in any form, and secure garbage where drink containers may be discarded.

6. Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are another puzzling toxin. While the exact cause of toxicity is unknown, it’s well documented that even small amounts can cause serious symptoms in dogs. These include weakness (especially in the hind legs), tremors, vomiting, hyperthermia (increased body temperature), and lethargy.

Symptoms often appear within 12 hours of ingestion and may last up to 48 hours. While most dogs recover with supportive care, the reaction can be frightening and painful. Macadamia nuts are often found in cookies, trail mixes, and nut blends, making them a hidden danger for dogs who like to steal snacks off the counter or from backpacks.

7. Cooked Bones

It’s a common myth that dogs should eat bones, but cooked bones—especially from poultry or pork—can be extremely dangerous. When cooked, bones become brittle and can splinter easily. These sharp fragments can cause serious injuries to your dog’s mouth, esophagus, stomach, or intestines.

Dogs who consume cooked bones may suffer from choking, internal bleeding, blockages, or even perforation of the digestive tract. Raw bones can be safer under proper supervision, but they still carry a risk of bacterial contamination. If your dog needs something to chew, opt for vet-approved dental chews or synthetic bone alternatives instead.

8. Avocados

Avocados contain a substance called persin, which is toxic to many animals—including dogs in large quantities. While some dogs can tolerate small amounts of avocado flesh, other parts of the fruit—like the skin, pit, and leaves—contain higher levels of persin and pose a greater risk.

Symptoms of avocado poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. The avocado pit is a choking hazard and can also cause a dangerous intestinal blockage if swallowed. Since the line between safe and unsafe is thin, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving your dog avocado altogether.

9. Caffeine

Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and heart, which makes it particularly dangerous for dogs. Found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, sodas, and even chocolate, caffeine can quickly lead to restlessness, rapid breathing, abnormal heart rhythms, tremors, and seizures.

Because dogs are much more sensitive to caffeine than humans, even small doses can be harmful. An entire cup of coffee or a few caffeine pills can be life-threatening for a small dog. Caffeine toxicity requires immediate veterinary care, and there is no antidote—only supportive treatment to prevent further absorption and manage symptoms.

10. Raw Dough and Yeast

Raw bread dough made with yeast may seem harmless, but it can be life-threatening to dogs. When a dog eats raw dough, the yeast continues to ferment in the warm, moist environment of the stomach. This produces ethanol (alcohol) and gas, leading to alcohol poisoning and a dangerously bloated stomach known as gastric dilatation.

Affected dogs may show signs of vomiting, abdominal swelling, lack of coordination, and lethargy. In severe cases, fermentation gases can cause the stomach to twist—a condition called bloat or gastric torsion—which is a surgical emergency. Always keep baking supplies out of reach and avoid leaving raw dough unattended.

Food Safety Is Health Safety

Being a responsible dog owner means more than regular walks and belly rubs—it means protecting your pup from hazards you might not even realize are lurking in the kitchen. Many of the foods we consider delicious or harmless are anything but when it comes to our four-legged friends. While the occasional dropped crumb of toast or sliver of meat might not cause harm, it’s crucial to know which foods are absolute no-gos for your dog. Instead of sharing human food, focus on providing high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs and satisfies their appetite. If you enjoy giving your dog treats, stick to vet-approved snacks and natural, dog-safe fruits and veggies. And remember: just because your dog wants to eat it doesn’t mean they should. A moment of indulgence isn’t worth the potential emergency room visit. Educating yourself and your family on toxic foods, reading labels carefully, and keeping your trash and food storage secure will go a long way in keeping your dog safe. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian before offering anything new—and act fast if you think your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t.