Many human foods are dangerous to dogs. Here's the complete list every owner should know.

Definitely toxic — never feed

Chocolate

Toxic compound: theobromine and caffeine. Dogs metabolize slower than humans.

Toxic doses: baker's chocolate 0.5 oz/lb body weight = potentially lethal. Dark chocolate 0.5–1 oz/lb. Milk chocolate 1–1.5 oz/lb.

Symptoms: vomiting, hyperactivity, seizures.

Grapes and raisins

Cause acute kidney failure in dogs. Toxicity highly variable — even small amounts can be fatal in susceptible dogs.

Xylitol

Sugar-free sweetener. Causes massive insulin release → fatal hypoglycemia and liver failure.

Toxic dose: 0.05–0.1 g/lb body weight. A single piece of sugar-free gum can be 0.5–1 g.

Found in: sugar-free gum, candy, some peanut butter, baked goods, toothpaste.

Onions, garlic, leeks, chives

N-propyl disulfide damages red blood cells. All forms toxic. Symptoms: weakness, lethargy, dark urine.

Macadamia nuts

1g/kg body weight causes symptoms. Weakness, hyperthermia, vomiting. Usually not fatal.

Avocado

Persin toxic. GI upset. Pit is choking hazard.

Alcohol

Small amounts dangerous. Vomiting, disorientation, death.

Caffeine

Coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolate. Hyperactivity, vomiting, elevated heart rate, seizures.

Yeast dough (raw, rising)

Expands in stomach. Produces alcohol during fermentation.

Cooked bones

Splinter when chewed. Cause throat injuries, choking, perforation.

Probably toxic / questionable

Salt (excessive): from chips, pretzels, salty meats.

Fat trimmings: cause pancreatitis. Inflammation can be life-threatening.

Cinnamon, nutmeg: large amounts irritate respiratory system or cause neurological symptoms.

Wild mushrooms: many species toxic. Don't let dogs eat outside mushrooms.

What to do if your dog eats something toxic

  1. Call vet or pet poison control immediately.
  2. Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661 (24/7).
  3. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435.
  4. Provide details: what, how much, when, dog's weight, symptoms.
  5. Don't induce vomiting unless told to.
  6. Bring packaging or remnants to vet.

Symptoms requiring emergency vet

  • Vomiting more than once.
  • Diarrhea persistent.
  • Lethargy.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Excessive drooling.
  • Seizures.
  • Tremors.
  • Disorientation.
  • Pale gums.

Time-sensitive toxins

  • Chocolate: induce vomiting if recent (within 2 hours).
  • Grapes/raisins: induce vomiting; treat with IV fluids.
  • Xylitol: emergency intervention; can be fatal in 30–60 min.
  • Antifreeze: highly toxic; immediate treatment required.

Plant toxicity

Lilies, sago palm, tulips, daffodils, foxglove, oleander, many indoor plants.

Check ASPCA toxic plant list for your specific plants.

Medications toxic to dogs

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) — liver toxicity.
  • Ibuprofen, naproxen — kidney damage.
  • Antidepressants — neurological effects.
  • ADHD medications — heart and seizures.

Never give human medications without vet approval.

Calculate safe treats

Our dog treat calorie calculator applies the 10% rule for safe daily treat amounts.