Common Foods Dogs Can and Can't Eat

The food you put in your dog's bowl isn't just about filling their bellies. It's about fueling his body, supporting his health, and shaping the behavior. A few years ago, my Golden Retriever started acting sluggish and gaining weight fast. I thought I was doing everything right - feeding him high-quality kibble, giving him the occasional table scrap as a treat, and making sure he had plenty of water. But something was off. 

After a trip to the vet and a deep dive into his diet, I realized I'd been unknowingly feeding him foods that were doing more harm than good. Association for Pet Obesity Prevention statistics show that over 55% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight or obese. This increases the risk of diabetes, joint problems, and a reduced lifespan. 

It's not just about weight, either. Some foods that seem harmless or even healthy for humans are toxic for dogs. They'll cause everything, from upset stomachs to life-threatening conditions like kidney failure. In this article, we're going to break down the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to feeding your dog. 

You'll learn which foods are safe, which ones to avoid, and how to tailor your dog's diet to their breed, size, and lifestyle. And I'm not just pulling opinions out of thin air, either. I've dug deep into veterinary research, nutritional studies, and expert recommendations to give you the most accurate and up-to-date information. So, if you want to keep your companion happy, healthy, and full of energy, keep reading.  

Common Foods Dogs Can and Can't Eat

Food	Can Dogs Eat?	Key Points
Poinsettia	❌No (mildly toxic)	Contains irritating sap; may cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and mouth/throat irritation.
Pomegranate	⚠️Yes, but with caution	Seeds and tannins can irritate the digestive system; only pomegranate extract (in some supplements) is processed to remove irritants.
Ham	❌No (not recommended)	High in sodium and fat; may lead to salt poisoning, diarrhea, pancreatitis; often contains nitrates/nitrites.
Turkey	⚠️Yes, if plain & unseasoned	Lean protein source; avoid skin, bones, salt, onions, garlic; deli/processed turkey is usually high in sodium.
Cranberries	✅Yes, in moderation	High in antioxidants and vitamin C; may help prevent UTIs; avoid sauces with added sugar, raisins, or xylitol.
Pecans	❌No (not recommended)	High in fat/calories; risk of GI upset and weight gain; limited nutritional benefits for dogs.
Oranges	✅Yes, in moderation	Good source of vitamin C and fiber; some dogs dislike the citrus smell; acidity can cause stomach upset.
Potatoes	✅Yes, if cooked & plain	Good source of carbs; avoid raw/green potatoes (solanine is toxic); skip butter, cream, salt; can spike blood sugar.
Marshmallows	❌No	Mostly sugar; risk of obesity, dental issues; sugar-free often contains xylitol, highly toxic to dogs.
Celery	✅Yes, in moderation	Hydrating, low-calorie, vitamin-rich; stringy texture can be a choking hazard—cut into small pieces.
Bananas	✅Yes, in moderation	High in potassium, vitamins B6 and C; also high in natural sugar—limit portion sizes.
Blueberries	✅Yes	Rich in antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C; low in sugar and calories; great as a training treat.
Grapes/Raisins	❌No (toxic)	Can cause acute kidney failure; even small amounts can be dangerous.
Onions & Garlic	❌No (toxic)	Contain thiosulfate, which damages red blood cells and can lead to anemia.
Avocado	⚠️Yes, with strict precautions	The flesh is generally safe in small amounts; pits and skin contain persin and can be a choking hazard.
Apples	⚠️Yes (remove seeds/core)	Rich in vitamins A and C; seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, so remove seeds/core before feeding.
Peanut Butter	⚠️Yes, xylitol-free & moderate	Check for xylitol (toxic); high-calorie; limit to small portions to prevent weight gain.
Yogurt	✅Yes, plain & unsweetened	Contains probiotics and calcium; avoid artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol); watch for lactose intolerance.
Cheese	✅Yes, in moderation	High in fat; some dogs are lactose intolerant; opt for lower-fat cheeses like mozzarella or cottage cheese.
Carrots	✅Yes	Crunchy, low-calorie; high in beta carotene and fiber; can help clean teeth.
Salmon	✅Yes, if fully cooked	Rich in omega-3s; never feed raw (risk of parasites); remove bones; avoid added seasonings.
Chicken	✅Yes, plain & boneless	Good lean protein; remove skin and bones; avoid seasoning (especially onion, garlic, salt).
Eggs	✅Yes, if cooked	Excellent protein source; raw eggs risk Salmonella and can cause biotin deficiency over time.
Plain Rice	✅Yes	Easy to digest; helpful for upset stomachs; choose white or brown rice without added salt or butter.

If you've ever caught your dog giving you those puppy-dog eyes while you're eating a slice of pizza, you know how hard it is to resist sharing your food.  After all, they're part of the family, and sharing a little bite from our plates feels like sharing love. But here's the thing: dogs aren't just furry little humans. I've spent years diving deep into canine nutrition, and if there's one thing I've learned, it's that dogs' bodies process food differently.  

Some foods that are safe for us can be downright dangerous for them. A 2019 study in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that around 14.8% of pet poisonings are caused by human foods.  Dogs are omnivores, just like humans. However, their digestive systems are more efficient at processing proteins and fats than carbohydrates. This is why high-quality dog foods are often rich in animal proteins and fats, with limited amounts of grains and veggies. 

However, that doesn't mean all human foods are off the table. In fact, many fruits, vegetables, and lean meats are incredibly beneficial for dogs when given in moderation. Let's explore the common foods dogs can and can't eat, their nutritional values, potential health benefits, and their possible downsides.

Poinsettia

Although poinsettias might look beautiful on your mantel, dogs should not eat them. But let me clear up a common misconception: poinsettias are not as toxic as many people believe. According to the American Kennel Club, the toxicity of poinsettias is mild and self-limiting. The milky sap in the plant contains diterpenoid euphorbol esters, which cause irritation.  

Common signs that your furry friend has chewed on a poinsettia leaf include drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. The irritation around the mouth and throat will also make the dog paw at his mouth. That said, it's advisable to place poinsettias on high shelves or use a pet gate to block off the area.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are a bit of a mixed bag. Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, all of which are good for dogs. Studies show that dogs given pomegranate extract showed improved cardiovascular health and reduced oxidative stress. However, the biggest issue with pomegranates is their seeds. Even if the juicy arils are harmless, the hard seeds inside are difficult for dogs to digest. 

Ingesting too many seeds causes gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Another issue is the tannins and ellagic acid found in pomegranates. These compounds irritate the dog's digestive system and cause gastrointestinal distress.  Pomegranate ingestion is among the top reasons for acute gastroenteritis in dogs due to its high acidity and indigestible seeds. 

So, is any form of pomegranate safe for dogs? Yes, pomegranate extract. In fact, many commercial dog foods and supplements contain pomegranate extract because of its high antioxidant content.  However, these extracts are specially processed to remove the tannins and acids that irritate a dog's stomach. So, never give your dog pomegranate juice from the store. 

Ham

Ham is salty and savory, and its rich, smoky flavor is like a magnet for the dog's taste buds. Plus, ham is a good source of protein, which your dog needs for muscle growth and repair. It also contains zinc, potassium, and B vitamins, which support your dog's health. But it comes with some serious downsides that make it far from ideal for dogs. Most ham is cured, smoked, or processed, meaning it's loaded with sodium. 

According to Small Animal Clinical Nutrition, dogs need about 0.2% to 0.4% sodium in their daily diet, but a single slice of ham can contain up to 400 milligrams of sodium—several times more than what a dog should consume in a day. Excessive sodium leads to salt poisoning, which causes vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, and seizures. 

I learned this the hard way when my dog once managed to snag a chunk of leftover ham off the dining table. Within hours, he was guzzling water, then the vomiting started, followed by diarrhea. Another issue is the fat content. Although fat is an important part of a dog's diet, too much of it triggers pancreatitis, vomiting, and lethargy. 

The risk is higher in breeds like Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Dachshunds, who are genetically predisposed to the condition. And let's not forget about the additives often found in ham. Many hams contain nitrates and nitrite preservatives, which are harmful to dogs. So, even if a small bite now and then probably won't harm your dog, ham is far from a healthy option. 

Turkey

Turkey is a lean protein source that's irresistible to both humans and dogs. It supports muscle growth and energy production. It's also rich in vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, zinc, and selenium, which support everything from energy metabolism to immune function.  Another good thing about turkey is its low-fat content if you stick to the white meat. This makes it a great option for dogs for overweight dogs or dogs with sensitive stomachs. A 3-ounce serving of plain, cooked turkey contains around: 

• 26 grams of protein 

• 2 grams of fat 

• Vitamin B6 & Niacin (B3) 

• Selenium & Zinc 

Maybe that's why turkey is a common ingredient in many high-quality dog foods. However, something that many dog owners don't know is that how good or bad turkey is for your pup depends on how it's prepared. The way most people prepare turkey, especially around holidays, makes it unsafe for dogs.  

For instance, most people will want their turkey seasoned or cooked with additional ingredients like onions, garlic, butter, or gravy. Both onions and garlic contain thiosulfate, which causes oxidative damage to a dog's red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. 

If the turkey is brined, cured, or processed like deli turkey, it can be extremely high in sodium. This leads to dehydration, high blood pressure, and sodium ion poisoning. So, the secret is to stick to plain, unseasoned turkey. It's advisable to remove the skin and fat as excessive fat increases the risk of pancreatitis. 

Cranberries

Cranberries are a healthy treat for dogs—but only if eaten in moderation.  Those tart, ruby-red berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and polyphenols.  According to the National Library of Medicine, cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, which prevent harmful bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining. This makes them great treats for dogs prone to UTIs, like Shih Tzus and Miniature Schnauzers. 

It works by preventing E. coli bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls. And let's not forget that most dogs love the tart, tangy flavor of cranberries, making them a great training treat. However, too many cranberries cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and kidney stones due to their high oxalate content. Something else to avoid is cranberry sauce. The sauce is loaded with sugar, and many recipes include harmful ingredients like grapes, raisins, and artificial sweeteners such as xylitol. 

Pecans

Pecans do contain some vitamins and minerals, like vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc, which support skin health and immune function. However, pecans don't offer much nutritional value for dogs. They're high in fat and calories, which leads to weight gain and other health issues. In short, the risks far outweigh the benefits.

Oranges

Dogs can eat oranges in moderation. Oranges are loaded with fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, which benefits your dog's immune system, digestion, heart function, and muscle function. Another benefit of oranges is their low-calorie content. A medium-sized orange contains only about 60-80 calories, making it a guilt-free treat for dogs who need to watch their weight. But they're not without their downsides. Oranges are highly acidic, which causes stomach upset in some dogs. Also, some dogs simply don't like the taste or smell of citrus.

Potatoes

Yes, dogs can eat potatoes, but with a few caveats. Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates, which provide a steady release of energy. They're also rich in vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, which support everything from immune function to muscle health. Another benefit of potatoes is their fiber content, which aids in digestion and helps keep your dog's bowel movements regular. But here are a few things to watch out for:

• Raw, green, or sprouted potatoes contain solanine, a natural defense mechanism in potatoes to deter pests. This compound is toxic and can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, tremors, and seizures.

• Many potato dishes are loaded with butter, cream, salt, and other seasonings that are harmful to dogs. So, avoid fried potatoes, such as French fries and potato chips. Keep them plain. 

• Potatoes have a high glycemic index. This can cause a spike in blood sugar. So, avoid them if your furry friend has diabetes or weight issues.

• Large chunks of potato can be a choking hazard. Cut the potatoes into smaller pieces.

Marshmallows

Although marshmallows aren't exactly toxic, they're far from ideal. Traditional marshmallows are made from sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, and artificial flavors and colors. They're basically little sugar bombs with zero vitamins, minerals, and fiber. A single regular-sized marshmallow contains about 4 grams of sugar, and mini marshmallows aren't much better. For dogs, this high sugar content leads to weight gain, diabetes, and dental problems. 

But the real danger lies in sugar-free marshmallows. Many of them contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. The American Veterinary Medical Association statistics show that even a small amount of xylitol can cause vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, liver failure, and even death. 

Also, their softness and squishiness pose a choking hazard. I once saw a friend's Pomeranian try to swallow a whole mini marshmallow, and it was a nerve-wracking few seconds until he finally got it down. So, if you're looking for a sweet treat, there are far healthier and safer options, like blueberries.

Celery 

I used to think celery was the most boring vegetable on the planet until I caught my dog sneaking a stalk off the kitchen counter. I started wondering: Is celery actually good for dogs, or is it just a fun distraction? It turns out that it's a little bit of both. First off, it's incredibly hydrating. Celery is about 95% water, making it a great treat for hot summer days or after a vigorous play session. 

If your dog isn't a big fan of drinking water, a few pieces of celery can help keep him hydrated. But the benefits don't stop there. Also, celery is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which improve vision, immune function, and blood clotting. And let's not forget that celery is low-calorie, just six calories per stalk.  

It's one of those guilt-free treats that lets you reward your canine without worrying about his waistline. Plus, celery is naturally crunchy, which helps clean teeth and freshen breath. But be careful. Its stringy texture poses a choking hazard for small breed dogs if they swallow without chewing properly.   

Bananas

I've given my dog bananas as an occasional treat, and he loves them. Bananas are loaded with vitamin C, B6, and potassium. Potassium supports heart and kidney function, vitamin C improves the immune system, and vitamin B6 helps with brain development and energy metabolism. They're also low in sodium and cholesterol, making them a heart-healthy treat. 

Finally, bananas have fiber, which helps digestion for dogs with gastrointestinal issues. But don't start feeding your dog an entire bunch of bananas. Keep it moderate. Bananas are high in sugar. According to the USDA, a medium banana contains about 14 grams of sugar. Even if natural sugar is better than processed sugar, too much sugars cause weight gain, dental issues, and insulin resistance over time. 

Make them an occasional treat rather than a daily snack. I usually give just a few small slices or mash it up and mix it with my dog's regular food for a little extra flavor. You can also give your furry friend a small banana slice before a hike or after a play session to replenish his energy. Remember to remove the peel before offering the fruit. Banana peels are hard to digest and could cause blockages and digestive upset.

Blueberries

I accidentally dropped a blueberry on the floor while making pancakes. My Cocker Spaniel swooped in and gobbled it up. She looked up at me, clearly asking for more. I had to research whether blueberries are safe for dogs. Turns out they're not only safe but recommended for dogs. These tiny berries have antioxidants, which fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, and reduce the effects of aging on the brain.  

In fact, according to the National Library of Medicine, the antioxidants in blueberries can improve cognitive function in aging dogs. If you want to keep your dog sharp and playful even in their senior years, blueberries are a great addition. Plus, they're low in calories and sugar compared to other fruits, making them a great snack even for dogs on a weight management plan. But that's not all. 

Also, Blueberries are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion, and vitamin C, which improves the immune system. I often use them as training treats because they're bite-sized and guilt-free. But don't dump a carton of blueberries into your dog's bowl. For small dogs, you can give 5-10 berries. Larger dogs can handle a handful or two. 

Final Thoughts

I've realized that knowledge is the best defense—knowing what food is safe, how much is safe, how to prepare it, and which dog breed can handle which treat. After all, a treat that energizes a Border Collie might be too much sugar for a sedentary Bulldog. Science backs this up. According to vet Cornell Richard, poor diet is the number one cause of obesity. So, learn how to balance nutrition with taste, keeping the dog safe while indulging your dog's curiosity.