Feeding your dog human food can be tempting, especially when they give you that familiar stare from under the dinner table. While some human foods are fine for dogs in moderation, others can lead to health problems. Knowing which foods are safe and which ones to avoid can help you keep your dog healthy and prevent unexpected trips to the vet.
This guide explains 15 human foods—eight that are safe and seven that should be avoided. You’ll also learn how to serve these foods properly and when to ask your veterinarian for advice.
Safe Human Foods for Dogs
These foods are generally considered safe when given in moderation and prepared properly. Always introduce new foods slowly and monitor your dog for any unusual reactions.
1. Cooked Chicken
Why It’s Safe: Chicken is a good source of lean protein and amino acids. Dogs often tolerate it well.
How to Serve It: Serve plain, cooked chicken without seasoning, onions, or garlic. Remove all bones to prevent choking.
Tip: Use boiled or baked chicken breast for a low-fat treat or to mix with your dog’s regular food.
2. Carrots
Why It’s Safe: Carrots are low in calories and high in fiber and beta-carotene.
How to Serve It: Raw or cooked carrots are fine. Cut into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking.
Tip: Freeze carrot sticks for a crunchy snack that can also help clean your dog’s teeth.
3. Plain Rice
Why It’s Safe: White rice is easy on the stomach and often recommended for dogs with digestive issues.
How to Serve It: Cook plain rice without salt, butter, or seasoning. Serve in small portions.
Tip: Combine with cooked chicken for a bland meal when your dog has an upset stomach.
4. Apples (No Seeds)
Why It’s Safe: Apples are a source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber.
How to Serve It: Remove the core and seeds before offering apple slices.
Tip: Try freezing thin slices for a cool summer treat.
5. Green Beans
Why It’s Safe: Green beans are high in fiber and low in calories, making them a healthy snack.
How to Serve It: Serve cooked or raw. Avoid canned varieties with added salt.
Tip: Mix into regular meals to help with weight control.
6. Pumpkin (Plain, Cooked)
Why It’s Safe: Pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help with both constipation and diarrhea.
How to Serve It: Use plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) or cooked fresh pumpkin.
Tip: Add a tablespoon to your dog’s food to support digestion.
7. Peanut Butter (Unsalted and Xylitol-Free)
Why It’s Safe: Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats.
How to Serve It: Use unsalted peanut butter without xylitol or artificial sweeteners.
Tip: Fill a Kong toy with peanut butter for a fun treat.
8. Plain Yogurt (No Sugar or Artificial Sweeteners)
Why It’s Safe: Yogurt contains probiotics that can support gut health.
How to Serve It: Choose plain, unsweetened yogurt. Avoid any with added sugar or xylitol.
Tip: Add a spoonful to food occasionally, especially if your dog is on antibiotics.
Unsafe Human Foods for Dogs
These foods are either toxic or pose a high risk of digestive upset or injury. Avoid feeding them to your dog.
9. Chocolate
Why It’s Unsafe: Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs.
Symptoms of Toxicity: Vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, increased heart rate, seizures.
Note: Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially dangerous.
10. Grapes and Raisins
Why It’s Unsafe: Can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs.
Symptoms of Toxicity: Vomiting, lethargy, decreased appetite, abdominal pain.
Note: Even small amounts can be harmful.
11. Onions and Garlic
Why It’s Unsafe: Can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
Symptoms of Toxicity: Weakness, vomiting, pale gums, rapid breathing.
Note: This includes cooked, raw, powdered, or dehydrated forms.
12. Avocado
Why It’s Unsafe: Contains persin, which can be harmful to dogs in large amounts.
Symptoms of Toxicity: Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort.
Note: The pit is a choking hazard and can block the digestive tract.
13. Alcohol
Why It’s Unsafe: Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous to dogs.
Symptoms of Toxicity: Vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, coma.
Note: Includes alcohol-containing foods like rum cake or beer.
14. Macadamia Nuts
Why It’s Unsafe: Can cause neurological and digestive issues.
Symptoms of Toxicity: Weakness, tremors, vomiting, fever.
Note: Only a few nuts can cause symptoms.
15. Cooked Bones
Why It’s Unsafe: Can splinter and cause internal injuries.
Risks: Choking, mouth injuries, digestive blockage or tears.
Note: Raw bones are sometimes used under veterinary supervision but are not risk-free.
Guidelines for Feeding Human Food to Dogs
If you’re considering adding human food to your dog’s diet, here are a few general rules to follow:
- Keep portions small: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
- Avoid seasoning: Most seasonings, especially those with garlic or onion powder, are harmful.
- Watch for allergies: Introduce one food at a time and observe for changes in behavior, digestion, or skin.
- Check with your vet: Before feeding human food regularly, it’s a good idea to get your vet’s input.
Final Thoughts
Not all human foods are harmful to dogs, but it’s important to know the difference between what’s safe and what could hurt them. By understanding which foods are okay and which ones to avoid, you can safely share a small portion of your meals without putting your dog at risk. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian before offering your dog a new type of food.
Feeding your dog safe, simple foods in moderation can be a healthy way to add variety to their diet. Just remember that commercial dog food is specially designed to meet your dog’s nutritional needs, so human food should only be an occasional addition—not a replacement.
