What Human Foods Are Bad for Dogs?

Your dog is part of the family, but when it comes to meals, it’s best to treat them differently. There are many foods dogs should avoid. It’s easy to learn what foods not to feed dogs, but it’s just as important to keep them sealed and out of their reach. Reference the list below to learn what human foods are bad for dogs. Consider printing it out for easy reference and be sure to talk to everyone in your family, especially children, about what not to feed your dog.

What Human Foods Are Bad for Dogs?

Macadamia Nuts

Often found in cookies or candy, macadamia nuts can cause vomiting, weakness, and hyperthermia in dogs.

Onions

Another food not to feed your dog is an onion. In large quantities, onions can cause gastrointestinal irritation in dogs.

Raw Meat and Eggs

Both the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have come out against feeding your dog a raw diet including uncooked meat and raw eggs.  

Chocolate

Most people know that chocolate is a food dogs can’t eat, and it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate have a higher percentage of theobromine which is toxic for dogs.

Foods With Xylitol

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener used in lots of sugar-free products like gum and candy. If your dog eats something with xylitol, it can lead to liver failure.

What Other Human Foods Are Bad for Dogs?

The above list is a few of the most common foods dogs should not eat, which can be dangerous to your dog’s health, but it’s not a full list. If you’re unsure about what not to feed your dog, or if a food is safe for them, ask your veterinarian.

If you think your dog may have eaten something dangerous, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. You should also make sure to always have the number of a 24-hour emergency animal hospital in case your veterinarian is not available.

Dog treats and snacks can be a safe alternative to human foods or table scraps. Click here to find a safe snack your dog will love.

1. American Veterinary Medical Association: “Raw or undercooked animal-source protein in cat and dog diets.”
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: “Q&A: Salmonella outbreak.”