Foods toxic to dogs: the complete list

The most dangerous foods

Food	Why it’s dangerous
Chocolate, cocoa	Theobromine and caffeine cause vomiting, a racing heart, tremors and seizures. The darker the chocolate, the higher the risk.
Grapes, raisins, currants, sultanas	Can cause sudden kidney failure. No safe amount is known.
Xylitol (“birch sugar”)	Found in sugar-free gum, candy, toothpaste, some peanut butters, vitamins and baked goods. Causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar and can lead to liver failure.
Onions, garlic, leeks, chives	Damage red blood cells. Cooked, raw and powdered forms all count.
Macadamia nuts	Weakness, wobbliness, tremors, vomiting and fever, usually within 12 hours.
Alcohol	Even small amounts can cause vomiting, wobbliness, low blood sugar and breathing problems.
Coffee, tea, energy drinks	Caffeine affects the heart and nervous system like chocolate does.
Raw yeast bread dough	Expands in the stomach and produces alcohol as it ferments.

Foods that cause serious problems

• Fatty foods — bacon, fried food, gravy and fat trimmings can trigger pancreatitis.
• Cooked bones — splinter and can block or puncture the gut.
• Fruit pits and seeds — cherry, peach, plum and apricot pits; avocado stones. Choking and blockage risks.
• Corn on the cob — a common cause of intestinal blockage.
• Moldy food and compost — some molds produce toxins that cause tremors.
• Salty snacks in quantity — excessive thirst, vomiting and, in large amounts, salt poisoning.
• Raw meat and raw eggs — risk of Salmonella and E. coli. Cooked eggs are fine.

Foods that are usually just a tummy upset

Milk and dairy (many dogs are lactose intolerant — see cheese), spicy food, and large amounts of most nuts. Not an emergency in small amounts, but not good treats either.

How to keep your dog safe

• Store bags, handbags and gym bags out of reach — gum, candy and medicines are often inside.
• Read labels for xylitol, also called birch sugar or wood sugar.
• Ask guests not to share food, especially at holidays.
• Use a lidded kitchen bin.
• Teach a reliable “leave it”.

Looking for safe options instead? See fruits dogs can eat and vegetables dogs can eat.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most toxic food for dogs?

Xylitol, grapes and raisins, and dark or baking chocolate are among the most dangerous, because small amounts can cause severe illness.

Are these foods toxic to cats too?

Many are — especially onions, garlic, chocolate, alcohol and caffeine. Lilies are the classic deadly danger for cats.

My dog ate a small amount. Do I still need to call?

Yes. Whether a small amount is dangerous depends on the food and your dog’s weight. A quick call to your vet or (888) 426-4435 will tell you. See what to do if your dog ate something toxic.

This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Every pet is different — for questions about your own pet’s health, talk to your veterinarian.