Many dogs can have small amounts of plain cheese, but some are lactose intolerant. Start with a tiny piece and watch for tummy upset.

No. Grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure—avoid entirely and contact your vet if ingested.

How much human food can my dog have?

Treats, including safe human foods, should make up no more than 10% of daily calories. Keep portions small and plain.

What are signs of food toxicity in dogs?

Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, tremors, or collapse. If you suspect your dog ate something toxic, call your vet or a pet poison hotline immediately.

Can Dogs Eat This? Safe & Toxic Foods for Dogs

Whether it's a dropped blueberry, a curious sniff near your dinner plate, or those big puppy eyes begging for a bite of your burger, if you've ever asked, “Can my dog eat this?”, you're not alone.

Here's a no-stress, quick-reference list of dog-friendly foods, foods to avoid, and the gray areas in between. Let's keep those tails wagging and tummies safe!

A happy dog's meal made with safe, dog-friendly foods

Just a heads-up: While we've done our best to share safe and helpful info, we're not vets. If you're ever unsure about what's okay for your pup to eat, your vet knows best!

✅ Dog-Safe Human Foods

💡 Tip: Start small, and always observe for tummy trouble. Every pup is a little different!

These foods are generally safe for dogs and can even be healthy when offered in small amounts:

Fruits & Veggies

🫐 Blueberries
🍎 Apple slices (no seeds!)
🍌 Bananas
🍉 Watermelon (seedless & rind-free)
🥕 Carrots (raw or cooked)
🥒 Cucumber
🥦 Broccoli (raw or cooked, plain, in small amounts)
🎃 Pumpkin (plain, cooked)
🍠 Sweet potato (cooked, no seasonings)

Protein & Pantry Staples

🍗 Plain cooked chicken or turkey (no bones, no seasoning)
🥚 Cooked eggs
🐟 Salmon (boneless, cooked)
🍚 White rice
🧊 Plain Greek yogurt (low-sugar, lactose-tolerant dogs only)

❌ Definitely No

These foods are unsafe or toxic to dogs, even in small amounts:

🍫 Chocolate
🍇 Grapes & Raisins
🧄 Garlic & Onions
🍷 Alcohol
☕ Caffeine (including coffee, tea, and energy drinks)
🍟 Salty snacks like chips or fries
🍞 Raw yeast dough

🤔 Be Cautious

Some foods aren't toxic but might cause digestive issues or pose choking risks:

🧀 Cheese (some dogs love it, others = 💨💨)
🥛 Milk (lactose intolerance is common)
🥑 Avocado (flesh may be okay, but pit & skin are not)

Rule of paw: If you wouldn't give it to a baby, maybe don't give it to your dog.

🐾 Bonus: Know Your Dog's Taste & Personality

Just like people, some dogs are picky, and others will eat anything that vaguely smells edible. Your pup's preferences often reflect their personality.

Want to learn more about your dog's personality? Take our 🚀 Free Dog Personality Test and discover what type of snacker your pup really is.

References for further reading: AKC: What Can Dogs Eat? • ASPCA: People Foods to Avoid

FAQ

Can dogs eat cheese?
Often yes in tiny amounts, but some dogs are lactose intolerant. Start small and watch for gas or diarrhea.

Can dogs eat grapes?
No. Grapes and raisins are toxic—contact your vet if eaten.

How much human food is okay?
Keep treats, including people food, to ≤10% of daily calories and serve plain.

What are red flags after a food mistake?
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, tremors, or collapse—call your vet or a pet poison hotline.

Last reviewed by the Dogality Test Team on Aug. 15, 2025.