What Would Scooby Do? The Ultimate Guide To Sharing Holiday (And Everyday) Foods with Your Dog

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You’re holding a snack. Your dog is staring as if it’s a life-or-death situation. One bite won’t hurt, right?

Before you channel your inner Scooby and Shaggy — especially during holiday feasts or game-day spreads — make sure you know what human food dogs can eat safely (and which ones can send you racing to the vet). Some snacks are fine in moderation, but others hide sneaky risks that could make your dog sick.

Here’s your rulebook for what human food dogs can eat — and what’s better left off their plate.

The Real Rulebook: What Your Dog Can (And Can’t) Eat

Your dog’s already tried to eat half of these — off your plate, the floor, or your toddler’s fingers. Some are totally fine. Others? Sneaky health risks hiding in plain sight.

Whether it’s a dropped chip during game day, a slice of turkey under the table, or an unguarded cookie platter, it’s hard to resist those eyes. But when it comes to what human food dogs can eat safely, it’s not always black and white.

Some snacks are fine in moderation; others can send you racing to the emergency vet. Here’s what you can (and can’t) share.

Safe (In Moderation)

These snacks are fair game. Just keep portions small, avoid added flavors, and opt for plain, cooked versions when necessary.

• Apples – Fresh, familiar, and often shared by kids and pups alike.
• Carrots – Crunchy, sweet, and tooth-friendly.
• Chicken – The holy grail of table scraps. Plain and cooked is perfect.
• Eggs – Scrambled or boiled? Yes. Raw? No thanks.
• Peanut Butter – A go-to for hiding pills or stuffing toys. Just ensure it’s xylitol-free.
• Rice – Gentle on upset stomachs and easy to digest.

Use Caution

These fall into the “depends on the dog” category. Some pups do fine. Others? Not so much.

• Bread – Plain is fine, but avoid toppings.
• Cheese – Great training treat for some, GI disaster for others.
• Hot Dogs – Kids drop them, dogs grab them. Too processed for daily treats.
• Popcorn – Air-popped is okay. Buttered, salted, or flavored? Better not.
• Yogurt – Some dogs tolerate plain, unsweetened versions. Others? Cue the tummy rumbles.

When in doubt, check the ASPCA’s guide to pet toxins or contact your vet before sharing human snacks.

The Holiday Spread Edition: What Dogs Can Eat At Every Feast

From game-day wings to Thanksgiving leftovers, food-filled celebrations are the most tempting times for dogs to sneak a bite. Here’s how to share safely — and avoid an emergency vet visit.

Bookmark Bonus: Save this section before your next big celebration so you know exactly what’s safe to share (and what’s off-limits).

Super Bowl, Game-Day & Backyard BBQ Snacks

Crowded living rooms and snack tables spell trouble for opportunistic pups.

Safe To Share

• Plain, unseasoned chicken or turkey bites (no buffalo sauce or breading)
• Carrot sticks, celery sticks, and cucumber slices
• Air-popped popcorn (no butter, salt, or flavoring)
• Small chunks of cheese if your dog tolerates dairy

Skip These

• Buffalo wings and boneless wings (spicy sauces, bones, and fat)
• Pizza crusts or cheesy breadsticks (high in salt, oil, and garlic powder)
• Nachos and queso dip (loaded with salt, onion, and dairy)
• Dips like guacamole, French-onion, or ranch (all contain onion, garlic, or avocado)
• Processed meats—hot dogs, sausages, pepperoni (too salty and fatty)

Pro Tip: Keep party platters high up — dogs can clean an entire coffee table before halftime.

Halloween Treats & Candy Bowls

Candy and party snacks can cause serious health issues if your pup gets into them.

Safe To Share

• Small bites of plain pumpkin or apple slices
• A few unsalted popcorn kernels
• Dog-safe pumpkin treats (no added sugar or nutmeg)

Skip These

• Chocolate in any form (dark, milk, white)
• Sugar-free candy or gum (xylitol can be deadly)
• Candy wrappers and sticks (choking hazards)
• Caramel, raisins, or grapes (toxic to dogs)

Safety Tip: Keep trick-or-treat bowls and dropped candy out of reach. Dogs can smell chocolate through a closed bag. View our full guide to Halloween safety with dogs.

Winter Holidays & Leftovers

Between cookie trays, cocktails, and family feasts, dogs face endless temptations in December.

Safe To Share

• Small portions of plain cooked proteins
• White or brown rice
• Apples, carrots, and plain green beans
• Small bites of peeled orange (in moderation)

Skip These

• Chocolates, fruitcake, or alcohol (top winter toxins)
• Rich sauces or gravies (high fat and salt)
• Nutmeg, macadamia nuts, and cookie dough (toxic ingredients)
• Leftovers that sat out too long (dogs get food poisoning too)

Holiday Hack: Store leftovers in sealed containers or the garage fridge; some dogs have mastered opening refrigerator doors for midnight raids.

Fruits Dogs Can Eat

Fruit can be a healthy option for dogs, and most of the time, it is. However, not all fruits are safe for dogs, and even the good ones can cause issues if you forget to remove seeds, pits, or peels.

Here’s what your pup can and can’t munch on from the fruit bowl.

Berries

Berries are small, low-calorie, and full of antioxidants. Most are dog-safe, and dogs usually love them. Just be sure to wash them well and avoid anything moldy or wild unless you’re certain it’s safe.

• Blackberries – High in fiber and vitamin C; feed fresh in moderation
• Blueberries – Antioxidant-rich and low in calories; a top pick for training treats
• Cranberries – Tart but safe in small quantities; avoid sweetened dried versions
• Goji Berries – Safe fresh and plain in small amounts; avoid dried versions with additives or excess sugar
• Mulberries – Ripe ones are safeƒ in moderation; unripe or fermented fruit may upset the stomach
• Raspberries – Fine in small amounts; contain trace xylitol but not harmful in typical portions
• Strawberries – Naturally sweet and full of vitamin C; remove the green tops and cut in halves for smaller dogs

Caution: Avoid feeding dried berries with added sugar or preservatives, and never let your dog snack on wild berries unless you’re absolutely certain they’re safe. Many lookalikes—like holly berries—can be toxic.

Citruses

Most citrus fruits are safe in small amounts, but not all dogs like the sour taste. Skip lemons, limes, and grapefruits—they’re too acidic and more likely to cause stomach upset.

• Oranges – Peeled and seedless only; feed in small amounts
• Mandarins – Naturally sweet and low acid; peel and remove seeds
• Clementines – Easy-to-peel and low in acid
• Tangerines – Similar to mandarins; remove peel and seeds
• Kumquats – Tart but safe if deseeded and sliced; not all dogs like them
• Pomelos – Safe if sweet and fully peeled; remove all membranes and seeds

Melons

Most melons are safe for dogs and make a great hydrating summer treat. Be sure to remove all seeds and rinds first, as they can pose a choking or digestive risk.

• Canary Melon – Mild and sweet; remove rind and seeds
• Galia Melon – Similar to cantaloupe; serve seedless and in small bites
• Muskmelon – Includes cantaloupe; safe when peeled and deseeded
• Honeydew – Safe but high in sugar; feed sparingly
• Watermelon – A favorite; go seedless and avoid the rind

Tip: Melons like cantaloupe and honeydew can be chopped into bite-sized pieces and frozen for a cool, hydrating snack on hot days. Just be sure to remove all seeds and rinds first. They’re a safer, natural alternative to store-bought frozen treats—and most dogs love the juicy crunch.

Pome Fruits

These crisp, juicy fruits include dog favorites like apples and pears. They’re safe in moderation as long as you remove the seeds and cores first.

• Asian Pears – A crisp, hydrating snack; remove seeds and core
• Apples – Crunchy and sweet; no seeds or core
• Loquats – Only the ripe flesh; remove all seeds and never feed leaves
• Pears – Soft and juicy; core and seeds must be removed
• Quince – Cooked only and in small amounts; raw quince is too tough for most dogs

Note: Apple seeds (and the seeds of other pome fruits like pears and loquats) contain cyanide. While one or two seeds likely won’t harm your dog, larger quantities or regular exposure can be hazardous over time.

Always remove cores and seeds before sharing pome fruits with your pup. Avoid leaves and stems as well, especially with loquats, which are more toxic.

Stone Fruits

Peaches, apricots, nectarines, and other stone fruits are safe in small amounts—but only the soft flesh. The pits, stems, and leaves can be toxic or cause choking.

Always remove the pit completely and never let your dog chew on it. Stone fruits should only be served in small, pitted, bite-sized pieces.

• Apricots – Safe as long as the pit is removed
• Cherries – Only the flesh of pitted, fresh cherries (not maraschino or canned)
• Nectarines – Pitted and plain
• Peaches – Fresh, not canned; remove pit
• Plums – Pitted; avoid canned or sugary versions

Tropical Fruits

Tropical fruits are sweet, juicy, and often packed with fiber and vitamins. Many are dog-safe in small portions, but some require preparation. Remove skins, pits, or tough cores, and always serve in bite-sized pieces.

• Bananas – A favorite for dogs; rich in potassium, easy to mash
• Kiwi – Tart but dog-safe; peel the fuzzy skin first
• Mango – Peeled and pitted is fine; rich in sugar
• Papaya – Gentle on digestion; remove seeds and skin
• Pineapple – Fresh only; avoid the core and sugary canned versions
• Plantains (cooked only) – Safe when cooked plain; never raw or fried

Tip: Tropical fruits are higher in sugar, so stick to small portions as a treat.

Fruit Curveballs: What About These?

These may not be the most commonly shared fruit snacks, but they’re still worth mentioning, especially if your dog is relentless.

Some are fine in moderation. Others? Best left off the menu.

• Avocado – Not recommended. Contains persin, which can be toxic to dogs, and a giant pit that’s a choking hazard.
• Coconut (flesh) – Safe in small amounts; avoid the shell and too much oil
• Dates – Safe in tiny amounts, but very sugary. Too many = bathroom problems.
• Dragon Fruit – Safe in moderation. Nutrient-rich and high in fiber, but the texture may be off-putting to some pups.
• Durian – Technically safe, but strongly flavored. Remove seeds and serve in tiny amounts (if you dare).
• Guava – Ripe and peeled only. Too many seeds or skin can cause GI distress.
• Figs – Not toxic, but may cause loose stool. Best kept as a rare bite.
• Lychee – Only when fully ripe, peeled, and de-seeded. Unripe lychee can be toxic.
• Olives – Only plain, pitted olives. Avoid canned or seasoned types. High in fat and salt.
• Passion Fruit – Skip it. The seeds contain compounds that could be harmful.
• Persimmons – Flesh is safe, but remove the seeds and pit first.
• Pomegranate – Not toxic, but seeds can cause stomach upset. Best avoided.
• Starfruit – Not safe. Can be toxic to dogs, especially those with kidney issues.

Curious about other dog-safe fruits? View our extensive guide to the fruits that dogs can and can’t eat.

Vegetables Dogs Can Eat

Most vegetables are low in calories and packed with nutrients. Not all are dog-approved, though. Some need to be cooked, others can be raw, and a few are better left off the menu.

Here’s how to break down your veggie drawer before your dog does it for you.

Leafy Greens

Light, fibrous, and packed with nutrients, leafy greens can be a healthy snack or kibble-topper for dogs. They’re a source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and water. But moderation is key; too many greens can cause tummy troubles.

• Arugula – Safe in small amounts; peppery flavor might not be every pup’s favorite.
• Collard Greens – Safe when cooked and chopped. High in fiber and calcium.
• Dandelion Greens – Nutrient-rich and safe in moderation; best served cooked
• Iceberg Lettuce – Safe, but mostly water. Not much nutrition to offer.
• Kale – Fine in small, cooked pieces. Too much can irritate the stomach and contribute to other health issues.
• Mustard Greens – Safe cooked in small amounts; too much can cause gas
• Romaine Lettuce – Safe, but mostly water. More crunch than nutritional boost.
• Spinach – High in iron and fiber, but also oxalates. Stick to small amounts, lightly steamed.
• Swiss Chard – Safe when lightly cooked; raw can cause stomach upset.

Tip: Chop and steam greens before serving to reduce bitterness and improve digestibility.

Root Vegetables

Hearty and nutrient-dense, root vegetables can make great additions to your dog’s diet when prepared properly. Most should be cooked and served plain, as raw versions can be hard to digest or even toxic.

• Beets – Safe cooked and chopped; rich in antioxidants and fiber
• Carrots – Crunchy and sweet, raw or cooked. Great for teeth and training.
• Parsnips – Mild, safe when cooked; high in vitamins C and B6
• Rutabaga – Safe when peeled, cooked, and served in small amounts
• Sweet Potatoes – High in fiber and beta carotene. Always serve cooked and plain.
• Turnips – Fine in moderation, cooked or raw; may cause gas in some dogs
• White Potatoes – Only cooked and peeled. Never serve raw or green ones.

Tip: Skip seasoned roasted potatoes or buttery mashed spuds. They may smell amazing, but your dog’s stomach won’t thank you.

Stem Vegetables

These stalky veggies can be fibrous and hard to digest raw. Steaming or finely chopping helps your dog get the most out of them without upsetting their stomach.

• Asparagus – Safe when cooked; raw stalks are tough to chew and not very appealing to most dogs
• Bamboo Shoots – Safe when fresh, cooked, and unsalted; canned versions often contain sodium or preservatives
• Celery – Crunchy and hydrating. Cut into small pieces to avoid choking.
• Fennel – Can help freshen breath and support digestion; serve in small amounts, cooked or raw

Flower Vegetables

These are the “sprouty” ones that look like tiny trees or mini cabbages. Dogs can eat them with a bit of prep. They are highly nutritious but may cause bloating or flatulence.

• Broccoli – Safe in small portions, raw or cooked. Too much can cause gas.
• Brussels Sprouts – Fine when steamed. Gassy for everyone, not just dogs.
• Cauliflower – Similar to broccoli. Offer sparingly to avoid digestive drama.

Fruit Vegetables

Botanically, fruits, but culinarily, vegetables. These are the edible odds-and-ends that grow from flowering plants and contain seeds.

• Bell Peppers – Red, green, yellow, and orange are all safe. No spicy varieties.
• Cucumbers – Great for hydration and crunch. Just skip pickles.
• Eggplant – Safe in moderation, cooked only. Some dogs may be sensitive.
• Green Beans – A common low-calorie filler. Fresh, frozen, or steamed is best.
• Okra – Fine in small amounts, cooked or raw. Steamed is easiest to digest.
• Peas – Snow, sugar snap, and garden peas are all safe for dogs. Avoid canned peas with added salt.
• Pumpkin – A favorite for digestion. Cooked and plain only. Plain canned pumpkin is fine, but not pie filling.
• Zucchini – Raw or cooked, it’s a mild veggie most dogs tolerate well.
• Tomatoes – Ripe ones are okay in small amounts. Avoid green tomatoes, stems, and leaves.

Learn More: Corn often gets lumped in here, too—but we’ll cover that in the grains section. Plus, read about 15 other safe vegetables for your pup to eat in our veggies guide.

Proteins & Dairy Dogs Can Eat

Dogs thrive on protein, but not all sources are created equal. Chicken, beef, and dairy are among the most common food allergens in dogs, so always introduce new proteins slowly and watch for signs of sensitivity.

The key? Keep it plain, cooked, and low on extras. Here’s what you can safely share (and when to skip it).

Eggs

Eggs are a great source of protein and essential fatty acids. Just make sure they’re fully cooked.

• Scrambled, boiled, or poached is fine
• Avoid raw eggs due to salmonella risk and possible biotin interference
• No butter, salt, or cheese add-ins

Dogs don’t need a fancy brunch. Keep it simple.

Meat & Poultry

Meat is a staple in many canine diets, but not all types are equal. Allergies to chicken and beef are common, and fatty cuts can trigger digestive issues.

Stick to plain, cooked, unseasoned cuts:

• Beef – Choose lean cuts. Avoid greasy or heavily marbled meat.
• Chicken – A popular, lean protein. Cooked thoroughly and skinless is best.
• Pork – Safe in small amounts if cooked plain and fat is trimmed.
• Turkey – A solid option, but avoid the skin and pan drippings.
• Salmon – Fully cooked only. A healthy omega-3 boost.

Skip anything processed or cured:

• Bacon
• Sausage
• Deli meats
• Ham
• Jerky made for humans

These are often packed with sodium, preservatives, garlic/onion powder, and other additives that can harm your dog. Never feed cooked bones or any food that is fried, spicy, or covered in sauces.

Peanut Butter

A go-to for hiding pills or stuffing toys, peanut butter feels like the universal dog treat. It’s rich in healthy fats and protein — just check the label first.

Warning: Always check the label for xylitol, a sugar substitute that’s extremely toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar or liver failure.

Cheese & Dairy Products

We mentioned it earlier with caution, but it’s worth repeating here. Many dogs tolerate cheese well, but others don’t.

• Stick to low-fat types like mozzarella or mild cheddar
• Avoid anything with herbs, garlic, or mold (like blue cheese)
• Test small amounts first if you’re unsure about lactose sensitivity

Other low-lactose options:

• Plain yogurt – Choose unsweetened and unflavored varieties
• Cottage cheese – In moderation; it’s easier to digest than harder cheeses

Legumes (Beans, Peas & Lentils)

Some legumes are safe in moderation, especially when fully cooked and unseasoned.

• Beans – Pinto, black, kidney, and other types are okay in small amounts
• Green peas – Snow, sugar snap, and garden peas are all safe
• Lentils – High in fiber and protein. Only serve well-cooked

Note: Beans can cause gas. You’ve been warned.

Grains Dogs Can Eat

Despite what some trends suggest, not all grains are bad for dogs. In fact, whole grains can be a great source of fiber, B vitamins, protein, and slow-burning carbs for energy. The key is to serve them cooked, plain, and in moderation.

Common Cooked Grains

These are the ones you’re most likely to already have in your pantry.

• Barley – An excellent fiber source. Cooked and plain is best.
• Brown Rice – A common base in many dog foods. Easy on sensitive stomachs.
• Corn – Fine when cooked and off the cob. Avoid cornmeal-based junk food.
• Farro – Chewy, hearty, and safe when cooked plain.
• Oats – Use plain, unsweetened oats. Steel-cut or rolled oats are ideal.
• Quinoa – High in protein, but rinse before cooking to remove bitter coating.
• White Rice – Often used in bland diets. Easy to digest and soothing for upset tummies.

Less Common (But Still Dog-Safe) Grains

You may not feed these often, but they’re safe and even appear in some premium dog foods.

• Amaranth – Protein-rich and gluten-free. Must be fully cooked.
• Buckwheat – Not a true grain, but safe when cooked. Avoid soba noodles with additives.
• Millet – Mild, easy to digest, and naturally gluten-free.
• Rye – Safe in small amounts, but more likely to cause gas.
• Sorghum – Found in some grain-inclusive dog foods. Cooked is fine.
• Spelt – A type of wheat. Cooked spelt berries are fine in small amounts.

Tip: Grains can be a great addition to a home-cooked dog diet, but always skip seasoning, butter, salt, and oils. Think plain and simple—like you’re cooking for a sensitive toddler.

Dogs & Their Favorite Human Snacks

Every dog has their thing—the snack they’ll beg, bark, or break the rules to get. Here are a few of our team’s food-obsessed pups.

Falkor will climb up your leg for peanut butter and not apologize for it. If he doesn’t get some, he throws the biggest tantrum you’ve ever seen.

– Danielle DeGroot, Professional Treat Negotiator & Canine Journal Writer

Sally starts a full-on happy dance when pizza arrives. Normally, she’s polite, but for crust? She’ll bark like she just joined a protest.

– Kimberly Alt, Crust Distribution Specialist & Canine Journal Writer + Pet Insurance Expert

Rio will eat anything you give him. But what he’s truly obsessed with? Ice. The moment he hears the ice machine, he’s at your side like you summoned him with a magic spell.

– Tara Maurer, In-House Ice Sommelier & Canine Journal Writer

Bonkers and his sister go bananas for… well, bananas. The moment one’s unpeeled, Bonkers starts trembling with excitement like it’s the most thrilling thing he’s ever seen. His younger sister locks in too—tail wagging, ready to pounce.

– Emma Braby, Official Banana Opener & Canine Journal Writer

Lily LOVES bell peppers. She is 15 years old and rarely begs for food, but the minute I take out a pepper to cut for dinner, she is on my heels, asking for a piece or five!

– Michelle Schenker, Pepper Procurement Officer & Co-Founder of Canine Journal + Licensed Insurance Professional

What About These? Human Foods Dogs Beg For (But Might Regret)

These aren’t fruits, veggies, or protein powerhouses, but they’re the real-life foods dogs beg for the most. Here’s what to know before you “accidentally” drop one on the floor.

Sometimes Okay (In Moderation)

• Bread – Plain white or whole wheat is fine in small bites. Avoid anything with raisins, garlic, or herbs.
• Cooked Pasta – Plain and unbuttered is okay. Keep portions small.
• Plain Crackers – In tiny amounts, low-sodium only. Watch out for seasonings.
• Rotisserie Chicken (Skin Removed) – Fine if you remove the skin and avoid seasoned birds.

Use With Caution

• Cereal or Oatmeal Packets – Flavored varieties often contain added sugar, dairy, or artificial additives.
• Egg Dishes – Scrambled is fine. Quiche, omelets, or anything with seasoning = no.
• Nut Butters (Other Than PB) – Almond or cashew butter may be okay in tiny amounts, but double-check ingredients and avoid added sweeteners.
• Yogurt – Plain and unsweetened is fine for some dogs. Avoid fruit-on-the-bottom or sweetened kinds.

Skip These

• Casseroles or Creamy Dishes – Too rich and usually packed with unsafe ingredients.
• Garlic Bread – Delicious, but garlic is toxic.
• Leftovers with Sauce – Anything with onion, garlic, butter, or oil is a no-go.
• Lunch Meats – Salty, cured, and packed with preservatives. Not worth it.
• Anything Sugar-Free – If it says “sugar-free,” assume it might have xylitol and keep it far away from your dog.

Uh-Oh. My Dog Ate Something Bad—Now What?

If your dog just gobbled something they shouldn’t have, don’t wait it out. Some symptoms show up fast—others take hours. Call your vet or local emergency clinic immediately.

Have your dog’s weight, age, symptoms, and what they ate ready. Even “just a bite” can be serious, depending on the food.

If it’s after hours, contact one of these 24/7 hotlines:

1. Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-764-7661
2. North Shore America / ASPCA Hotline at 1-888-232-8870
3. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435

Note: Some hotlines may charge a consultation fee.

“I Gave My Dog Grapes—Here’s What Happened”

Here’s a cautionary tale from Kathy Solarino, who experienced the dangers of dogs ingesting grapes first-hand.

I was babysitting my son David’s dog, Jack, a Jack Russel Terrier mix. I loved that little guy, and he was so much fun.

This happened some years ago. It was a Saturday afternoon, and I was talking to my sister on the phone, munching on grapes. Jack was staring at me, so I threw him one, and he leaped in the air to catch it.

As I continued to talk and eat, I occasionally tossed Jack a grape, delighting in his “circus dog” antics. I happened to mention to my sister how funny he was jumping to catch the grapes, and she quickly told me grapes were deadly for dogs.

I panicked, hung up the phone, and looked for the number of the Animal Poison Control. I called and found that to receive any help, I would first need to “donate” a certain amount of money. I scrambled to get my credit card, gave the money, and finally got someone on the line.

They told me that they were unsure if it was the skin, pulp, or seeds of the grapes that caused the problem; it didn’t seem to matter if the grapes were white, red, or purple, and they were unsure why it did not affect some dogs and killed others. They instructed me to force Jack to vomit by giving him a saucer of milk with peroxide in it.

I was told if all the grapes did not come up, I needed to take him to a vet. I asked if I could wait to see if he seemed sick, and they said it would be too late to save him by then.

Jack immediately began vomiting all over the house, and I followed behind him, trying to count chewed-up grapes, only to realize that I wasn’t even sure of the number of grapes I had actually given him. So off we went to the nearest emergency vet that was open.

I was frantic! I knew that if anything happened to Jack, my son would never forgive me.

The vet advised me there was no way to know if Jack would react to the grapes, so he would need intravenous fluids to flush his kidneys through the night and the next day. Poor Jack and poor me, that mistake cost me $800, but at least Jack was fine and returned to his old self.

Quick Takeaway: The Snack Sharing Rulebook

• Keep it simple: Plain, cooked, and unseasoned is usually safest
• Watch the “sometimes” foods: Cheese, bread, and peanut butter are fine in small doses
• Avoid the big dangers: Grapes, garlic, xylitol, onions, chocolate
• When in doubt: Skip it or ask your vet

One bite can be a treat—or a $1,200 emergency. Know the difference.

Want To Feed Human Food—Without The Risk?

If you love the idea of giving your dog real food but worry about what’s safe, there’s a smarter way: fresh, human-grade dog food made just for dogs.

Brands like Ollie, Nom Nom, and Spot & Tango deliver pre-portioned, vet-formulated meals right to your door—no guesswork, no risky leftovers.

It’s real meat, real veggies, and real nutrition, all tailored to your dog’s needs.

Want our honest opinion? We tested The Farmer’s Dog with our own pups. See what we liked, what we didn’t, and how it worked in our full Farmer’s Dog review.

Dog-Safe Menu: What To Feed Your Pup (No Guessing Required)

Need a go-to menu you can trust any day of the year — holiday or not? Here’s what your dog’s plate should actually look like.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ever found yourself Googling “what human food can dogs eat” while your pup gives you the sad eyes from under the dinner table? You’re not alone.

Here are quick answers to the most frequently asked questions by pet parents. Don’t see yours? Ask us in the comments!

Can Dogs Eat Fruit Every Day?

Yes, but in small amounts. Stick to low-sugar fruits like blueberries, apples (no seeds), and watermelon. Consuming too much fruit can lead to an upset stomach or weight gain.

What Human Foods Are Most Toxic To Dogs?

Grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, garlic, and anything with xylitol (like sugar-free gum or peanut butter) are all highly toxic—even in small amounts.

Can Dogs Eat Holiday Turkey or Ham?

Plain, unseasoned turkey or lean ham is fine in small amounts. Skip the skin, gravy, and glazed coatings, which are loaded with salt, fat, and spices that can upset your dog’s digestion.

What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Chocolate Or Candy?

Call your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately (855-764-7661). Provide details on what was eaten and how much. Even small doses can be toxic depending on your dog’s size.

Can Dogs Eat Seasoned Or Saucy Food?

No. Most seasonings, sauces, and marinades contain ingredients that are unsafe for dogs, especially garlic, onion powder, salt, and butter.

Is It Okay To Feed My Dog Table Scraps?

It depends. A plain bite of chicken or rice is fine. A piece of lasagna or salad with dressing? Probably not. If in doubt, don’t share.

Can I Feed My Dog The Same Food I Eat Every Day?

Not a good idea. Dogs need a balanced, species-appropriate diet. Regularly feeding human meals can lead to nutritional imbalances or health problems over time.

What If My Dog Has Food Allergies?

Common allergens include chicken, beef, dairy products, and certain grains. If you suspect allergies, consult your veterinarian about elimination diets or allergy testing.