Let’s face it: we can’t always control what goes into our dogs’ mouths. A piece of food can fall off your plate and be scarfed down by your pup before you can tell them “no”. Some sneaky dogs like to sneak leftover food off the kitchen counter. Situations like this happen to every dog parent! 

Instead of scrambling through Google Search, we’ve compiled a list of which people foods are safe for dogs. You’ll also find foods to avoid or ask your vet about before feeding your pup. For the parents of food-motivated breeds, feel free to bookmark this link so you have fast access next time your pup steals a snack. 

Before you feed something to your dog…

Remember that just because it’s edible to you doesn’t mean it’s good for your pup. There are plenty of foods to share with your furry friend, but there’s also a safe way to do it. Always research the best way to serve these foods to your dog before actually giving it to them. Call your vet if you are unsure what’s safe and what isn’t. 

What fruits can dogs eat?

Can dogs eat strawberries? What about bananas for dogs? Fortunately, most fruits are safe fruits for dogs–so long as any stems, pits, or seeds are removed. Here’s a list of fruits dogs can eat: 

Safe for Dogs (in moderation)

• Strawberries
• Watermelon
• Blueberries
• Apples
• Tomatoes (fully ripe, only!)
• Cucumbers
• Cantaloupe
• Raspberries
• Blackberries
• Pears
• Cherries

Ask Your Vet Before Serving

• Figs
• Bananas
• Peaches
• Kiwi
• Cranberries
• Oranges
• Beets

Avoid!

• Grapes (red or green)
• Unripe or green tomatoes
• Avocado
• Dried fruits (raisins, apricots, prunes, etc.) 
• Lemon
• Lime

What vegetables can dogs eat?

The best vegetables for dogs may surprise you. We recommend keeping your pup away from starchy veggies, like potatoes and corn. Nightshade vegetables, even in small amounts, can also do damage to your dog’s health. Instead, improve your pup’s overall wellness with help from these safe vegetables for dogs: 

Safe for Dogs (in moderation!)

• Broccoli
• Celery
• Carrots
• Kale
• Spinach
• Shiitake mushrooms
• Squash

Ask Your Vet Before Serving

• Peas
• Potatoes
• Corn
• Sweet potatoes
• Green beans
• Brussels sprouts

Avoid! 

• Onions
• Asparagus
• Bell peppers
• Cauliflower
• Wild mushrooms

Which herbs, spices, & snacks are safe for dogs to eat?

Dogs have a different palate, so it’s hard to know what dogs can eat and what’s toxic. We did the hard work for you! Here’s a list of popular foods, herbs, and spices, and whether they are good for your furry friend:

Safe for Dogs (in moderation!)

• Honey
• Popcorn
• Ginger
• Cashews
• Cheese
• Liver
• Shrimp
• Eggs
• Peanuts (and peanut butter)
• Coconut
• Cottage cheese
• Quinoa
• Plain cooked rice
• Beans (black beans or kidney beans)
• Cinnamon
• Peanut butter
• Parsley

Ask Your Vet Before Serving

• Almonds
• Milk
• Tofu
• Olives
• Bread
• Lemongrass
• Crab meat
• Oysters

Avoid! 

• Pistachios (too risky for stomach upset) 
• Pickles (too much salt and garlic, which are both threats for your pup)
• Marshmallows (contains xylitol, which is poisonous to dogs)
• Garlic (even small amounts are toxic for dogs)
• Chickpeas (linked to heart disease)
• Anything sugar-free (likely contains xylitol)