Toxic Foods for Dogs: What to Keep Out of Your Pup’s Bowl

We all love spoiling our furry friends, but not all human foods are safe for dogs. Some seemingly harmless treats can be surprisingly toxic, even in small amounts. At Astoria Fetch, we’re here to help you keep your pup happy, healthy and out of danger. That’s why we only provide pet-parent-approved treats!

Here’s a guide to the most common foods that should never make it into your dog’s bowl.

1. Onions, Garlics & Chives 

The onion family, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, is highly toxic to dogs. It can cause gastrointestinal irritation and damage to red blood cells, sometimes leading to anemia. Symptoms may not appear immediately and can take several days to show, so early vigilance is important.

2. Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound that affects the heart and acts as a diuretic. Even a small amount can be dangerous, and large amounts can be fatal. Keep all chocolate out of reach!

3. Grapes & Raisins

Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure. Even a few grapes can be dangerous - keep them on surfaces your dog can’t reach.

4. Fruit Pits & Seeds

Seeds from apples, cherries, peaches, and other fruits contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can produce cyanide poisoning. The fruit flesh is generally safe, but always remove seeds or pits.

5. Bones

Cooked bones, especially chicken bones, can splinter, causing lacerations or blockages in your dog’s digestive tract. Avoid giving your dog cooked bones altogether.

6. Potato Peelings & Green Tomatoes

The green parts of tomatoes, potato peelings, and green potatoes contain oxalates, which can affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary systems.

7. Yeast Dough

Raw yeast dough can expand in the stomach, potentially causing dangerous gas buildup or even stomach rupture.

8. Alcohol (Beer, Wine, Liquor)

Alcohol can lead to coma or death in dogs. Keep all alcoholic beverages completely out of reach.

9. Other Foods to Avoid

  • Human vitamins (especially iron-containing)

  • Persimmons

  • Raw eggs & raw fish (risk of salmonella)

  • Salt, baking soda, & baking powder

  • Mushrooms

  • Macadamia nuts

  • Broccoli (in large quantities)

  • Sugar-free foods containing xylitol

  • Nutmeg

  • Avocado

  • Mustard seeds

  • Caffeinated teas

  • Walnuts

This list is not exhaustive. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether a food is safe for your dog.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your dog safe starts with knowing which foods to avoid. Even small treats can become dangerous over time, so stick to dog-approved snacks and meals. At Astoria Fetch, we combine attentive care with the knowledge and love your pets deserve, so you can enjoy peace of mind, whether you’re home or away.

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