Which Foods are Safe for My Dog?

All dogs love a tasty treat and they especially love anything their favorite human is eating. Not all human food is safe for dogs though, and some fruits, vegetables, and other foods can be quite dangerous. Look below to find the best healthy and safe items you can share with your precious pup and the ones to avoid. Plus a few helpful tips to help you find new and fun ways to serve your dog’s favorites!

Please Note: All dogs should be fed a balanced diet based on their age, size, and health needs. The list below includes recommendations, and should only be fed in moderation, not as a complete diet. Any new treat or food should be introduced slowly. As always, you should consult with your veterinarian about any dietary changes and for the specific needs of your dog.

Safe foods your dog can eat: 

Foods your dog cannot eat:

Serve tasty fruits

Fresh fruits are quick and easy treats for your dog they’re sure to love! You can hand them over straight from the fridge or fruit bowl (after washing), but there are other fun ways to prep yummy fruit to excite your doggy friend. 

For KONG toy lovers, blueberries, strawberries, bananas, raspberries, watermelon, and more can be used as toy fillers. Mix into sugar-free plain yogurt and pop in the freezer for a long lasting treat that is sure to please. No KONG? No problem! Yogurt and your dog’s favorite fruits can be frozen in ice cube trays for mini pupsicles perfect for a hot day or for a cool down after a long walk. 

Have you tried lick mats yet? Lick mats can serve as great mental stimulation and are very easy to throw together. Pick your fruit or veggies of choice, and mash into the groves of a lick mat. A short visit to the freezer helps the treat last longer, and whole pieces of fruit or other treats can be added on top. Lick mats have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety as well as stimulate the mind for dogs of all ages. This is our favorite lick mat and one of my dog’s favorite activities. 

Veggies are treats too

Can dogs eat vegetables? Of course they can, and they’re a healthy treat option to add to your rotation. Broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, green beans, pumpkin, and plenty of others are easy additions to your dog’s diet. You can serve cooked and unseasoned veggies on the side or mixed into their regular food, Cooked veggies can be pureed and frozen into ice cube trays as an easy national boosting topper to their usual kibble meal. Whole raw carrots make for safe and healthy chews for dogs, and they can be frozen for a more long lasting chew.

Want to add veggies to your KONG or lick mat? That’s easy too! Homemade or premade vegetable purees are perfect for these toys, just make sure they’re free of garlic, onions, salt, and other seasonings. Store bought options should be single ingredient varieties only. 

Not all fruits and vegetables are safe

Can my dog eat grapes? Can my dog eat avocados? The quick answer is no and no. Many foods that are healthy and enjoyable for humans are the complete opposite for our furry friends, and for dogs in particular. It’s important to be aware of these never ever feed foods, and to make sure others in your home (especially young children) understand as well. Grapes, raisins, chocolate, tree nuts, xylitol, fruit pits, candy, and alcohol should be avoided at all times due to their toxicity for dogs, and accidental ingestion warrants immediate veterinarian intervention. 

Easy on the upset stomach

Do you need something you can give a dog for an upset stomach? If your dog has had a bit of diarrhea or vomiting it can be hard to withhold their regular food, but it’s important to give their digestive system a chance to recover. As long as your veterinarian has no serious concerns about the cause of upset, most dogs can recover at home with a bit of help from the kitchen. Plain cooked chicken, turkey, scrambled eggs, or beef mixed with boiled rice is an easy to digest meal that will fill their belly without causing more harm.

Chicken can be boiled and shredded, or you can use the ground protein of your choice, cooked without seasoning, and thoroughly drained. Trying scrambled eggs mixed with rice instead? Add water instead of milk and skip your usual butter and seasonings. Make sure you slowly transition back to your dog’s usual food once signs of illness have ended.

Which new foods will you try with your dog?

FAQ Dogs and its writers are not veterinarians and any and all medical decisions should be made under the advice of a certified professional. All information provided is intended as recommendation only, and should never be used in place of sound medical advice. Reader discretion is advised, and all food choices should be made based on each individual dog’s needs, including but not limited to allergies and health conditions.