9 Toxic Foods You Should Never Feed Your Dog

If your dogs are like mine, they think they should be eating everything I eat. While dogs are smart, they don’t always show much discretion when it comes to what goes into their mouths. That’s why it’s so important for us, as pet owners, to understand which foods are safe—and which can be downright dangerous. There are 9 toxic foods for dogs that I never give mine, and most pups will try anything (as you’ll see in the story below!).

When our Great Dane was just a puppy, I was busy chopping vegetables at the kitchen counter. I got distracted by the phone for just a minute. When I turned back, an onion was missing. Sure enough, I found Marmalade in the corner throwing it up. Thank goodness! Thankfully, she never tried to eat another one again.

9 Toxic Foods for Dogs You Should Never Feed Them

Here’s a list of foods you should never feed your dog:

1. Xylitol (Found in sugar-free gum and baked goods)

Xylitol causes a rapid insulin release in dogs, which can lead to severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), liver failure, or death.

2. Grapes and Raisins

These can cause sudden kidney failure, even in small amounts.

3. Avocados

They have a huge seed that can cause a dangerous blockage if swallowed. Avocados also contain a substance called persin. While persin is not toxic to dogs and cats in small amounts, it can be deadly to birds, rabbits, and larger animals like cows and horses. To be safe, it’s best to avoid giving avocados to your pets altogether.

4. Yeast Dough

Unbaked dough can rise in a dog’s stomach, potentially leading to bloating or even intestinal rupture.

5. Onions (and chives or onion powder)

Can cause red blood cell damage and gastrointestinal irritation. Even small amounts over time can lead to serious problems.

6. Cooked Bones

These can splinter and puncture internal organs. Raw bones, on the other hand, can be safe and even beneficial—just talk with your vet first.

7. Chocolate

Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which is similar to caffeine. Dogs can’t break it down like humans can, so it builds up in their system and can cause vomiting, tremors, heart problems, or even death. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.

8. Apple Cores and Seeds

Apple seeds contain cyanide. While a slice of apple is fine, skip the core and seeds.

9. Certain Nuts

Not all nuts are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the ones to avoid:

Almonds – Not toxic, but hard to digest and may cause stomach upset.
Hickory nuts & pecans – These nuts contain a natural toxin called juglone, which is especially
dangerous to horses but can also cause stomach upset or even intestinal blockages in dogs.
Macadamia nuts – Highly toxic to dogs; can cause tremors, overheating, vomiting, and possible
neurological symptoms.
Pistachios – High in fat and can lead to pancreatitis.
Walnuts – Walnuts can contain a toxin called tremorgenic mycotoxins, which are harmful molds
that grow on nuts. These toxins can affect your dog’s nervous system and may lead to seizures or other serious issues.

Want a quick reminder you can hang on the fridge or tuck in your pet’s food bin?
Download my free printable checklist: 9 Toxic Foods for Dogs—so you can keep your furry friends safe at a glance.

Our dogs count on us to protect them—from love and cuddles to what goes in their bowl. A little knowledge goes a long way in keeping them happy, healthy, and safe.

From my happy, healthy home to yours,