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Safety

Which foods should dogs never eat?

Common human foods that are toxic to dogs.

A fresh organic dog meal with beef, pumpkin, carrots and herbs

1 min read · Reviewed by the Organic Dog Chef team

01

The danger list

Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener found in some sugar-free gum and baked goods), macadamia nuts, alcohol and cooked bones are among the most common household dangers for dogs.

02

Less obvious risks

Raw bread dough can expand in a dog's stomach and produce alcohol as it ferments.

03

If your dog eats one

Call your vet or an emergency vet line straight away, even if your dog seems fine, since some effects are delayed by several hours.

01

The danger list#

Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener found in some sugar-free gum and baked goods), macadamia nuts, alcohol and cooked bones are among the most common household dangers for dogs.

Some of these are dangerous even in small amounts — xylitol in particular can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, and grapes and raisins can affect the kidneys even in tiny quantities in some dogs.

02

Less obvious risks#

Raw bread dough can expand in a dog's stomach and produce alcohol as it ferments. Avocado, certain nuts, and some sugar-free products can also cause problems, and cooked bones of any kind should never be given because they splinter easily.

It's worth checking product labels for xylitol specifically, since it's increasingly used in peanut butter, some baked goods and chewing gum.

03

If your dog eats one#

Call your vet or an emergency vet line straight away, even if your dog seems fine, since some effects are delayed by several hours. Try to note what was eaten and roughly how much, as this helps your vet decide on treatment.

Don't try to induce vomiting at home unless a vet specifically tells you to and how, since it isn't safe for every substance and every situation.

04

How Organic Dog Chef can help#

If you're ever unsure whether one of our products is suitable alongside medication or a sensitivity your dog has, our team is happy to talk it through — though for anything your dog has already eaten by accident, your vet should always be the first call.

Not sure what to feed your dog?

Try our meal finder for a personal match, or browse the shop.