What can dogs eat?

Yes, dogs can eat (sweet) potatoes if they are cooked.

Raw potatoes are toxic, so make sure to cook them without adding salt.

No, preferably not.

Store-bought gherkins are preserved in vinegar, with added salt and spices like mustard seeds and garlic. The pickling liquid also often contains sugar and other additives.

If you really want to give your dog a taste, limit it to a very small piece and rinse it thoroughly beforehand.

No!

Avocado is toxic to dogs.

Read our blog “What is toxic for your pet?“

In moderation.

Legumes are generally safe for dogs to eat, as long as they are cooked. However, don’t give them too often. Legumes contain lectins, a natural toxin produced by the plant to protect its seeds from being eaten. In large amounts, lectins can irritate the intestines.

If you’re using beans from a jar or tin, always rinse them thoroughly before giving them to your dog.

In moderation.

It’s perfectly fine to give your dog a piece of cooked broccoli. However, don’t give too much, as the isothiocyanates in broccoli can cause stomach cramps. Make sure broccoli doesn’t exceed 5% of your dog’s daily food intake.

Yes, dogs can eat courgette both raw and cooked. Both the fruit and the flowers are safe.

No!

Garlic is toxic to dogs.

Read our blog “What is toxic for your pet?“

Garlic is often used in natural flea and tick repellents, such as Biofood Garlic Tablets. The amount of garlic in these products is safe for pets.

Yes, cucumber is a safe vegetable to give to your dog.

In moderation.

Cabbage, like broccoli, contains isothiocyanates, which can cause stomach issues and gas if consumed in large amounts.

Yes, endive is safe for dogs.

In moderation, and only if cooked.

Never give a whole corn cob, as it can cause blockages. Corn is high in carbohydrates.

Note: Corn is a grain, not a vegetable, although it’s often eaten as one.

Preferably not.

Olives can cause digestive issues and offer little nutritional value. They are often preserved in seasoned oil, garlic, or salt, which isn’t good for your dog.

While one olive generally won’t make your dog sick, the pit can cause irritation or pose a risk of blockage.

No!

Mushrooms are hard for dogs to digest and contain toxic substances like agaritine and muscarine. These can cause gastrointestinal issues and neurological symptoms in your dog.

Preferably not, or at least in moderation.

Bell peppers belong to the nightshade family and contain solanine, which can cause gastrointestinal issues if consumed in large amounts. Green peppers have a higher solanine content than yellow or red ones. If you do want to give your dog bell pepper, peel it, remove the seeds and stem, and only offer very small pieces.

Yes, dogs can eat chicory.

You can give chicory both raw and cooked. It’s a good source of potassium, magnesium, and other vitamins.

Yes, dogs can eat carrots.

Carrots are high in fibre and contain beneficial nutrients like beta-carotene and vitamin A. They’re often a crunchy, enjoyable snack for dogs and are low in calories.

Preferably not, or at least in moderation.

Tomatoes, like bell peppers, belong to the nightshade family and contain solanine. If you want to give your dog tomato, only offer ripe ones. Never give plant parts or unripe tomatoes, as these contain high levels of tomatine, which is toxic to dogs. Ripe tomatoes also contain tomatine, but in much smaller amounts. Stick to one slice of tomato or one cherry tomato, no more than once or twice a week.

Preferably not.

Aubergines, like tomato and pepper plants, contain the toxic substance solanine in their skin and raw flesh. If you want to give your dog aubergine, always peel and cook it first. Additionally, some dogs can be allergic to aubergine, so only offer very small pieces.

Yes, dogs can eat cauliflower in moderation.

Cauliflower is a low-calorie vegetable that provides fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, which can support digestion and overall health. It can be given raw or cooked, but if cooked, ensure it is plain (without salt, butter, or seasoning).

Too much cauliflower can cause gas or bloating, so introduce it gradually and serve in small amounts. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, monitor for any digestive issues.

Yes, dogs can eat celery in moderation.

Celery is low in calories and contains vitamins A, C, and K, fibre, and antioxidants, which can support your dog’s health. It also has a high water content, helping with hydration.

Cut celery into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking, especially for small dogs. While it’s safe raw or cooked, avoid seasoning or added ingredients.

Too much celery may cause digestive upset due to its fibre content, so introduce it gradually and serve in moderation.

No! Dogs should not eat onions.

Onions are toxic to dogs, whether raw, cooked, dried, or powdered. They contain thiosulfate, which can damage red blood cells and cause haemolytic anaemia, leading to weakness, vomiting, breathing difficulties, and even organ damage in severe cases.

Even small amounts can be dangerous, especially if eaten regularly. If your dog has consumed onions, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Yes, dogs can eat parsnips in moderation.

Parsnips are safe and nutritious, containing vitamins C and B6, fibre, and antioxidants, which support digestion and overall health. They can be given raw or cooked, but always plain, without seasoning, butter, or oil.

Cut raw parsnips into small pieces to prevent choking, especially for small dogs. Too much parsnip may cause digestive upset, so introduce it gradually and serve in moderation.

Yes, dogs can eat peas in moderation.

Peas are nutritious and contain vitamins A, B, and K, fibre, protein, and antioxidants, which can support overall health. Dogs can eat fresh, frozen, or cooked peas, but avoid canned peas, as they often contain added salt.

Types of peas that are safe for dogs include garden peas, snow peas, and sugar snap peas. Always remove the pods from garden peas, as they can be tough to digest.

Too many peas may cause digestive issues, so serve them in small amounts. Avoid peas if your dog has kidney problems, as they contain purines, which can worsen kidney conditions.

No, dogs should not eat baked beans.

Baked beans are typically high in sugar, salt, and preservatives, which are unhealthy for dogs. They often contain tomato sauce, garlic, and onions, which can be toxic. The high sugar and salt content can also contribute to obesity and digestive issues.

If your dog eats a small amount of baked beans, they may experience stomach upset, but larger amounts or regular consumption can lead to serious health problems. It’s best to avoid baked beans and opt for plain, cooked beans like kidney beans or green beans instead.

Yes, dogs can eat strawberries.

Strawberries are low in sugar, but make sure to wash them thoroughly before giving them to your dog.

Yes, dogs can eat fresh pineapple.

Only give the flesh, and make sure to remove the skin, leaves, and hard core.

Pineapple is rich in B vitamins, vitamin C, and contains beneficial minerals and electrolytes. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids protein digestion.

Avoid canned pineapple, as it contains too much sugar.

Yes, dogs can eat apples.

Wash the apple thoroughly and remove the core, as apple seeds can be toxic to dogs.

Yes, dogs can eat bananas.

Always remove the peel. Bananas contain potassium, vitamin C, and healthy fibre. However, be mindful of the amount, as bananas are high in sugar. An average-sized dog should not have more than a quarter of a banana per day. Too much banana can cause constipation, just like in humans.

Yes, dogs can eat most types of berries.

Blueberries, in particular, are a great option for dogs. Make sure to choose ripe berries, as unripe ones can cause digestive issues. For extra safety, stick to berries that are safe for human consumption.

Blueberries are low in sugar and can even support your dog’s health, as they are rich in vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants.

Important: Grapes are technically berries too, but dogs must never eat them! Read our blog “What is toxic for your pet?“ for more information.

No!

Grapes are toxic to dogs.

Read our blog “What is toxic for your pet?“.

Yes, dogs can eat raspberries.

Raspberries are low in calories and high in fibre, as well as beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Yes, dogs can eat blackberries.

Always wash blackberries thoroughly before giving them to your dog, as ripe wild blackberries can be contaminated with fox tapeworm.

Blackberries are a good source of fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and they may even have an anti-inflammatory effect due to the anthocyanidins in the fruit.

Yes, in moderation.

Some dogs may experience diarrhoea from kiwis, as they can stimulate digestion.

Kiwis are high in sugar, fibre, and acidity. Don’t give more than 1–2 small pieces of ripe kiwi per day, and always remove the skin before offering it to your dog.

Yes, dogs can eat mango.

Only give the flesh and remove the skin and pit. The pit contains cyanide, which is toxic to both dogs and humans, and the skin is difficult to digest.

Yes, dogs can eat melon.

You can choose types like Galia melon, cantaloupe, or watermelon. Only give the flesh and avoid cutting too close to the rind. Remove the seeds, as they can be toxic to dogs.

Don’t give your dog too much melon, as it can cause digestive issues.

Yes, dogs can eat pears.

Wash the pear thoroughly and remove the core, as pear seeds can be toxic to dogs.

Yes, dogs can eat peaches.

Remove the pit and cut the flesh into small pieces. Like mango pits, peach pits contain toxic substances that can produce cyanide.

Only give small pieces and make sure the peaches are ripe.

No, dogs should not eat cherries.

While the flesh of a cherry is not toxic, the pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which is poisonous to dogs. Eating cherries (especially whole) can lead to cyanide poisoning, causing symptoms like difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, and red gums. The pits also pose a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages.

Even seedless cherries are high in sugar, which can lead to digestive upset. If your dog eats cherries, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Yes, dogs can eat coconut in moderation.

Coconut is non-toxic and contains healthy fats, antioxidants, and lauric acid, which can support the immune system and help reduce inflammation. However, it is high in fat and can cause digestive upset or pancreatitis if eaten in large amounts.

Always remove the hard shell, as it can be a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages. Avoid sweetened or processed coconut products, as they may contain added sugars or preservatives.

For most dogs, small amounts of fresh or unsweetened dried coconut are safe as an occasional treat.

Preferably not.

Walnuts are very high in fat and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. In larger amounts, they may even lead to pancreatitis. Due to their size, walnuts can also cause blockages in the intestines.

Nuts are prone to mould growth, which can produce mycotoxins and lead to walnut poisoning.

Preferably not.

Nuts are very high in fat, which can cause digestive issues and may even lead to pancreatitis. They also contain a significant amount of phosphorus. A few cashew nuts usually won’t cause harm, but it’s hard to predict how well your dog will tolerate them.

No!

Macadamia nuts are toxic and dangerous for dogs.

Read our blog “What is toxic for your pet?”.

In moderation.

Dogs usually love cheese, but it’s high in fat and salt. It also contains lactose, which some dogs struggle to digest. One small cube or slice is usually fine, but it’s best not to give more.

Preferably not.

Milk contains a lot of lactose, which dogs struggle to digest compared to humans. Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and drinking milk can cause severe diarrhoea. Milk also contains milk proteins, which can trigger food allergies in some dogs.

Yes, in moderation.

Dogs can have small amounts of plain yoghurt, preferably a low-fat variety. Make sure it doesn’t contain added sugars. Yoghurt provides protein, calcium, and probiotics, which can support digestive health. For dogs with lactose intolerance, it’s best to choose lactose-free yoghurt.

Never give more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake in yoghurt.

Preferably not.

Whipped cream is too high in fat for dogs and often contains added sugars. It also has a high lactose content, which can cause digestive issues in sensitive dogs.

Yes.

Quark contains less lactose than yoghurt and has twice as much protein. It also provides calcium and beneficial lactic acid bacteria. Choose a low-fat variety without added sugars.

Preferably not.

Dogs can eat bread, but it offers little nutritional value. It mainly contains carbohydrates, fibre, and some vitamins and minerals. Too much bread can cause excessive gas. Make sure the bread doesn’t contain too much added salt.

If your dog is allergic to wheat or gluten, avoid bread altogether.

Yes, dogs can eat eggs.

A cooked egg is a great source of essential amino acids and fatty acids. Eggs are often used as a protein source in dog food. As with any treat, don’t overdo it.

Be cautious with raw eggs, as they may contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella. Raw eggs also contain substances that can inhibit biotin absorption, potentially causing health problems for your dog.

Preferably not.

Honey is high in sugar, which isn’t ideal for dogs. While it can be a source of antioxidants, dogs don’t need it in their diet. Additionally, many types of honey contain additives that aren’t suitable for dogs.

Yes, in moderation.

Cinnamon has health-promoting properties, such as anti-inflammatory effects, blood sugar regulation, and antifungal benefits. However, only use it in very small amounts.

Preferably not.

Prawn crackers contain a lot of salt and often spices that can be harmful to dogs. They are also deep-fried, making them high in fat and potentially causing digestive issues.

Yes, in moderation.

Dogs can eat peanut butter, but always choose a variety without xylitol, added sugars, or salt—100% peanut butter is best. It is naturally high in fat, which can cause digestive issues or even lead to pancreatitis. So, only give small amounts.

Yes, dogs can eat prawns in moderation, but they must be cooked and plain.

Prawns are a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins B12 and E, which can support brain and skin health. However, they are high in cholesterol, so they should only be an occasional treat.

If feeding prawns to your dog:

• Always cook them – raw prawns may contain harmful bacteria or parasites.
• Remove the shell, head, and tail – these can be a choking hazard or cause digestive issues.
• Avoid seasoning, butter, or oil – these can upset your dog’s stomach.

For most dogs, a small amount of plain, cooked prawn is safe as an occasional treat.

Yes, dogs can eat herring.

Herring is a fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure to remove all the bones and prepare it without salt or seasoning. Cooked or steamed herring is the safest option for your dog.

Important: Never give raw herring, as it contains anti-thiamine, which breaks down vitamin B1.

Check out our herring snacks as well.

Yes, in moderation.

Dogs can eat tuna, as it’s rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, tuna can also contain high levels of mercury, so it’s best not to give it too often. Avoid tuna in oil and make sure to remove any bones.

Raw tuna may carry parasites that can harm dogs, so always serve it properly prepared—either cooked, canned in water, or frozen for at least 24 hours beforehand.

Yes, dogs can eat salmon.

Salmon is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure to prepare the fish properly and remove all bones. Cooking the salmon ensures it’s safe for your dog.

Smoked salmon is less suitable, and raw salmon should be avoided, as it can carry parasites similar to those found in tuna.

Check out our salmon skin snacks as well.

Yes, dogs can eat rice.

Rice is a nutritious source of carbohydrates, especially if you’re preparing your dog’s meals yourself. It’s commonly used in easily digestible dog foods. Cooked white rice is the best option.

Creating a complete, balanced meal for your dog isn’t always straightforward. Need guidance? Feel free to contact us at [email protected].

Yes, dogs can eat pasta in moderation, but it should be plain and cooked.

Pasta is not toxic to dogs, but it is mostly carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain if eaten too often. Whole wheat pasta is a better option than white pasta, as it contains more fibre and nutrients.

If feeding pasta to your dog:

• Serve it plain – avoid sauces, garlic, onions, and seasonings, as these can be toxic.
• Cook it well – raw pasta is difficult to digest.
• Give only small amounts – too much can cause bloating or digestive upset.

For most dogs, a little plain pasta as an occasional treat is safe, but it should not replace a balanced diet.

Yes, dogs can eat pork, but there are important considerations.

Pork is a good source of protein and contains essential amino acids, but it is also high in fat, which can lead to weight gain and pancreatitis if eaten in large amounts.

If feeding pork to your dog:

• Always cook it thoroughly – raw or undercooked pork can carry parasites like Trichinella, which can cause illness.
• Serve it plain – avoid seasonings, garlic, onions, or sauces, as these can be toxic.
• Remove bones – cooked pork bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

Avoid processed pork products like bacon, ham, or sausages, as they are high in salt and preservatives, which can be harmful to dogs.

For most dogs, small amounts of plain, cooked pork are safe as an occasional treat.