Food

What Would Scooby Do? The Real Guide to Human Foods Dogs Can (and Can’t) Eat

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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, find out which human foods are actually safe for dogs to eat, and which ones might land you at the vet.

The Usual Suspects: What Your Dog’s Already Tried To Steal (And If It’s Safe)

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.

When it comes to what human food dogs can eat safely, it’s not always black and white. Some human snacks are fine for dogs to eat 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 a kid’s snack that gets shared.
  • 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 – Great for upset tummies and easy to digest.
  • Watermelon – Super common in summer. Dogs love the sweetness.
Brown dog holding carrot in mouth while looking up at camera.

Never Feed These

These are straight-up dangerous. Even a little can lead to vomiting, seizures, or worse. Skip them entirely.

  • Chocolate – Caffeine + theobromine = toxic for dogs.
  • Grapes & Raisins – Even a few can cause kidney failure.
  • Onions & Garlic – In any form (powder, raw, cooked). Major red flag.
  • Xylitol – Found in sugar-free gum, PB, and baked goods. One bite can be fatal.
Little white Maltese dog and food ingredients toxic to him.

You can learn more about foods that are not safe for dogs in our Foods Not To Feed Your Dog guide.

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.
Dog eating bread.
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash

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
Dog and a cup of blueberries in hand on the background of a green lawn.

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
Small white dog eating orange sliced in half.

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
Brown dog biting out a slice of watermelon.

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
White and Brown Dog Sniffs at Fruit

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
Person dangling apricot piece over dog's head.
Photo by Niko Nieminen on Unsplash

Watch The Pit!

Stone fruit pits (like those in peaches, apricots, and plums) can be toxic and pose a choking hazard or intestinal blockage if swallowed.

  • Never let your dog chew or play with the pit.
  • Always remove the pit and any tough stem or leaf pieces.
  • Serve only the soft fruit flesh, in bite-sized pieces.

When in doubt: If it has a hard pit, toss it before you share it.

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
Dog with pineapple on head outside.

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.
Ruby Cavalier dog looking at bowl of spinach on table.

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.
Pomeranian eating carrot.

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
Puppy sniffing a stalk of celery.

Bulb Vegetables: Mostly A No For Dogs

Most bulb veggies like onions, garlic, shallots, leeks, and chives are toxic to dogs—even in small amounts. They can damage red blood cells and cause serious health issues over time. Skip the seasoning scraps and table leftovers with these ingredients.

Learn more about foods that are not safe for dogs in our Foods Not To Feed Your Dog guide.

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.
Beagle dog eating broccoli vegetable.

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.
Dog in a field of green beans.

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
Raw egg in dog bowl with kibble.

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.
Dog holding meat in mouth.

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

Dogs go wild for peanut butter. Just check the label first.

  • Always check the label for xylitol (a sweetener that is deadly to dogs)
  • Choose unsweetened, natural varieties
  • Serve from a spoon, a toy, or frozen in a treat puzzle
Maltese Bichon sitting on table eating peanut butter from spoon while owner holds jar.

Note: It’s calorie-dense. Spoon with care.

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
Vegan Spread

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.
Dog looking up at bowl of rice.

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

Edited with Afterlight
Edited with Afterlight

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.
Dog eating rotisserie chicken.

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.

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

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

Pet pug in a veterinary clinic

If Your Dog Ate Something Questionable

  • Check the label or ingredient (Google it fast)
  • If it’s dangerous: Call your vet or a poison control hotline
  • If your dog is showing symptoms: Don’t wait
  • Not sure? Use a 24/7 vet chat to get answers fast

Still unsure? Ask a vet now using our 24/7 online vet chat tool (see the lower right-hand corner of your browser window). You’ll get answers from a doctor within minutes.

“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.

How To Avoid A $1,200 Snack Mistake

That one bite of garlic bread? It could cost you a small fortune in vet bills.

Emergency visits for vomiting, poisoning, or surgery after a food-related incident can easily hit $500 to $1,500 or more. And it usually happens when you least expect it—like when your dog swipes a plate off the counter during dinner.

Pet insurance helps you prepare for the worst, without draining your wallet. We compare top providers and break down what they cover in our pet insurance guide. Compare Pet Insurance Plans →

If your dog has a habit of eating everything in sight, it might be the best treat you give yourself.

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.

A bowl of Farmers Dog next to a photo of a dog eating nom nom out of a bowl on the counter.

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)

Scrolling through a long list of foods can feel overwhelming. That’s why we made this cheat sheet. Consider it your go-to menu of safe, shareable snacks—served plain, without seasonings or sauces, and always in moderation.

Dog-friendly human food menu.

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 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.

Keep Your Dog’s Diet on Track From Day One

The best time to start feeding your dog the right food? Day one.

Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different nutritional needs. So do small dogs vs. large breeds, or pups with health issues like diabetes, allergies, or weight gain.

There’s no one-size-fits-all bowl. Always talk to your vet before making big changes—and make sure whatever you’re feeding matches your dog’s age, size, and health.

Looking for meals you can make at home? Check out our chicken and rice recipe for dogs or browse these homemade dog food recipes for every type of pup.

Tara Maurer

Tara is a writer and content creator for Canine Journal, specializing in health and nutrition. She has 8+ years of experience in the wellness industry, where she has worked with countless dog parents on holistic approaches to healing and aging. Tara holds a B.A. in Multimedia Journalism from Simpson College and is also an AFPA-certified holistic nutritionist. She currently lives with a very good boy named Rio, a Golden Retriever, and “the girls” Luna and Lucy, his feline siblings.

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