40 Poisonous & Toxic Foods for Dogs (A to Z List)
Dogs account for 70 to 80% of all animal poisoning cases, and many of those emergencies start with everyday foods found at home.
Some human foods contain compounds a dog’s body cannot safely handle, and even small amounts can cause serious health problems.
This guide breaks down poisonous and toxic foods for dogs from A to Z, explains how these foods affect dogs, the warning signs to look out for, and what to do in case of an accident.
How Toxic Foods Affect Dogs
Some foods contain compounds that a dog’s body cannot safely break down.
Theobromine, found in chocolate and caffeine, builds up in a dog’s system and overstimulates the heart and brain. Xylitol, a sweetener in sugar-free gum and candy, causes a rapid insulin surge that can dangerously lower blood sugar levels within 30 minutes and damage the liver. Grapes and raisins can trigger acute kidney failure within 24 to 72 hours.
Signs of Food Toxicity in Dogs
Symptoms can appear quickly or be delayed, depending on the food and the amount eaten. If you notice any of the signs below, contact your veterinarian right away:
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Vomiting.
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Diarrhea.
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Breathing issues.
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Drooling.
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Restlessness or unusual agitation.
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Tremors or shaking.
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Weakness or trouble standing.
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Seizures.
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Urinating much less than usual.
A to Z List of Poisonous & Toxic Foods for Dogs
Use this simple A to Z chart as a quick reference to keep unsafe foods out of your dog’s reach.
|
Letters |
Poisonous or Toxic Foods |
|
A |
Alcohol, Almonds, Apple Seeds, Apricot Pits, Avocado |
|
B |
Bacon, Bones (Cooked) |
|
C |
Caffeine, Cannabis, Cherries, Chives, Chocolate, Corn on the Cob, Currants |
|
D |
Dairy Products |
|
E |
Eggs (Raw) |
|
F |
Fatty Meats, Fried Foods |
|
G |
Garlic, Grapes |
|
H |
Ham, Hops |
|
I |
Ice Cream |
|
M |
Macadamia Nuts, Mushrooms (Wild), Mustard Seeds |
|
N |
Nutmeg |
|
O |
Onions |
|
P |
Peach Pits, Pecans, Persimmons, Plum Pits, Potatoes (Raw or Green), Pork (Raw/Seasoned) |
|
R |
Raisins, Rhubarb Leaves, Raw Meat |
|
S |
Salt, Spicy Foods, Star Fruit, Sugar, Sultanas |
|
T |
Tomatoes (Unripe or Green), Tobacco (Nicotine), Turkey Skin |
|
W |
Walnuts |
|
X |
Xylitol |
|
Y |
Yeast Dough |
What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Toxic Food
If your dog eats a toxic food, follow these steps.
Stay Calm and Act Fast
Take a breath and focus. Staying calm helps you think clearly and act quickly for your dog.
Remove Your Dog From the Source
Move your dog away from the food right away. Make sure no other pets can reach it either.
Figure Out What Was Eaten
Check what your dog ate, how much, and when it happened. Bring any packaging, labels, or food pieces with you or keep them nearby for reference.
Do Not Induce Vomiting on Your Own
Do not make your dog vomit unless a veterinarian tells you to. Vomiting can be dangerous with certain foods or objects, and home remedies can make things worse.
Call for Expert Help Immediately
Contact your veterinarian first and follow their instructions. If it’s after hours, call a 24/7 emergency clinic or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855)-764-7661. Expert guidance, even by phone, can save lives.
Follow Professional Instructions
A professional may ask you to monitor your dog or come in right away. Never give human medicine unless a veterinarian confirms it is safe.
FAQs
Can dogs eat small amounts of toxic foods without harm?
Sometimes even a tiny amount can cause serious problems, so there’s no truly safe “small bite” when it comes to toxic foods.
Why are grapes and raisins so dangerous for dogs?
Grapes and raisins can trigger acute kidney failure in dogs, sometimes within 24 to 72 hours, and because the toxin and safe dose are unknown, even small amounts are treated as emergencies.
Are cooked bones really unsafe for dogs?
Yes, cooked bones can splinter easily and cause choking, internal injuries, or dangerous blockages.
What fruits are safe alternatives for dogs?
Plain options like apple slices without seeds, blueberries, and bananas are generally safe when served in moderation.
Should I induce vomiting if my dog eats something toxic?
No, you should only do this if a veterinarian specifically tells you to, since vomiting can sometimes make things worse.
A Little Caution Goes a Long Way
You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be aware and keep toxic foods out of reach, because prevention is always better than treatment. If an accident does happen, respond quickly and lean on your vet for guidance.
Reminder: Always consult a veterinarian before feeding your dog human food.