With so many people embracing fresh feeding and human-grade meals for their pets, this is a good moment to pause and remember that not every ingredient meant for us is safe for them. Some common foods can be surprisingly toxic or even deadly to dogs. Whether you are sharing your breakfast or preparing your pup’s dinner, it is important to know what should always stay off their plate.
Toxic Foods to Watch Out For
Grapes and Raisins:
These small bites can cause sudden kidney failure, even in tiny amounts.
Chocolate:
A treat for humans but toxic to dogs because of theobromine, a stimulant that affects the heart and nervous system.
Onions, Garlic, Leeks, and Chives:
All members of this family can destroy red blood cells and cause anemia.
Xylitol:
A common sweetener in sugar-free gum, candy, and some peanut butters that can lead to dangerously low blood sugar and liver failure.
Alcohol:
Even small amounts can cause vomiting, confusion, or worse. Keep all drinks and fermented foods away from your pup.
Macadamia Nuts:
Can cause tremors, weakness, and vomiting in dogs.
Avocado:
Contains persin, which can upset a dog’s stomach and, in high amounts, affect the heart.
Caffeine:
Coffee, tea, and energy drinks can dangerously overstimulate your dog’s system.
Cooked Bones and Yeast Dough:
Cooked bones splinter easily and can cause internal injuries. Yeast dough expands in the stomach, creating painful and dangerous bloating.
Salt, Fatty Foods, and Moldy Scraps:
Excess salt can lead to dehydration and poisoning, fatty foods can cause pancreatitis, and moldy leftovers may lead to tremors or seizures.
What To Do If It Happens
If your dog eats something dangerous, stay calm and act quickly:
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Identify what and how much they ate, and note the time.
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Call your vet right away—don’t wait for symptoms.
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If unavailable, contact ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).
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Don’t make your dog vomit unless told by a vet.
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Watch for signs like vomiting, shaking, drooling, or fatigue.
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Store foods safely to prevent repeat accidents.
A quick call can save your dog’s life. When in doubt, always check it out.
Myth vs Fact
Clearing up confusion about what’s truly safe
Myth: “Dogs can eat anything natural.”
Fact: Nature has toxins too, grapes, mushrooms, and even apple seeds can be harmful.
Myth: “A little chocolate won’t hurt.”
Fact: Even a small amount can be dangerous depending on the type of chocolate and your dog’s size.
Myth: “If it’s cooked, it’s safe.”
Fact: Cooked bones, onions, and garlic stay toxic no matter how they’re prepared.
Myth: “Peanut butter is always fine.”
Fact: Only xylitol-free peanut butter is safe. Always read the label.
Myth: “Dogs know when something’s bad for them.”
Fact: Dogs rely on us; they’ll happily eat almost anything that smells good.
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Great Human Foods for Dogs
Nutritious snacks that keep tails wagging and bodies healthy
Apples (no seeds): Crunchy source of vitamins A & C, freshens breath, aids digestion. Remove core and seeds.
Blueberries: Tiny antioxidant boosts for brain and immune health. Great for training.
Bananas: Potassium-rich and gentle on digestion; serve in small bites due to sugar.
Watermelon (seedless): Hydrating, full of vitamins A, B6, C. Remove rind and seeds.
Strawberries: Antioxidants and natural teeth whiteners; serve fresh, not sweetened.
Carrots: Crunchy, low-fat dental cleaners loaded with vitamin A. Raw or lightly steamed.
Green Beans: Fiber-rich, filling, and low-calorie; serve plain without seasoning.
Sweet Potatoes: Fiber and beta-carotene powerhouses; cook plain, no butter or salt.
Cucumbers: Light, hydrating, and vitamin-rich; great for cooling snacks.
Pumpkin: Aids digestion and gut balance; use pure canned or cooked pumpkin only.
Cooked Chicken or Turkey: Lean protein for muscle support; avoid skin, bones, seasoning.
Eggs (cooked): Protein and healthy fats; scrambled or boiled are best.
Oatmeal (plain): Gentle fiber source for sensitive stomachs; serve cooled, unsweetened.
Plain Greek Yogurt: Probiotics and calcium for gut and bone health; low-fat, no sugar.
Peanut Butter (xylitol-free): Protein and healthy fats; always check labels for safety.
Snack Smart:
Keep portions small, avoid salt and sugar, introduce foods slowly, and check with your vet when in doubt.
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A Rockstar Puppy Reminder
A rockstar lifestyle should be as safe as it is stylish. Keep these foods out of reach and choose healthy, dog-safe alternatives instead: blueberries, carrots, and small bites of plain chicken are all excellent choices.
At Rockstar Puppy, we believe every legend deserves a long, healthy, and unforgettable life.