Can My Dog Eat That? A Simple Guide to Dog-Friendly Fruit, Veg and Human Food

Sharing a snack with your dog might seem harmless, but some everyday human foods can cause real problems for your furry friend. That said, there are plenty of fruits and vegetables that are perfectly safe (in moderation). The key is knowing which ones to offer, which ones to avoid, and how to serve them.

Fruity Treats: The Sweet Stuff That’s Safe

Dogs can enjoy a variety of fruit, but not all fruit is created equal! Make sure to share them in small amounts, as too much natural sugar can cause an upset stomach.

Safe options include:

1. Apples (without seeds or core)
   1. Sweet, crunchy, and full of fibre and vitamins. Just make sure to remove the seeds, which contain small amounts of cyanide.
2. Bananas
   1. Great for a quick potassium boost, but high in sugar, so keep it as an occasional treat.
3. Strawberries and blackberries
   1. These are antioxidant-rich and naturally sweet. A small handful chopped up makes a nice reward.
4. Pineapple (peeled and cored)
   1. Tropical and tasty, but acidic, so offer sparingly.
5. Sweetcorn (kernels only)
   1. A fun addition to your dog’s meal, but never give them the cob - it’s a major choking hazard.

Veggies That Get the Green Light

Many vegetables make excellent dog-friendly snacks, especially for dogs on a diet or those needing a low-fat option. They can also help teething puppies or older dogs who like to crunch.

Cooked or raw carrots are a popular favourite. They’re packed with beta-carotene and gentle on the gut. Green beans and peas are also safe in small amounts and contain useful nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C.

Stick to plain, unseasoned vegetables. Skip the butter, salt and sauces - their stomachs certainly won’t thank you for it!

What About Other Everyday Foods?

Beyond the fruit bowl and veg drawer, there are plenty of other foods dog owners are curious about. Some are surprisingly okay, but others are strictly off the table.

Bread is fine in small pieces, but only plain. Anything containing raisins, nuts, or garlic is a hard no. Cheese is safe for most dogs in moderation, although too much can cause digestive issues, especially for lactose-intolerant pups. Cooked meat, like chicken or beef, is generally safe, but make sure it's plain, boneless, and free from seasoning.

Peanut butter is a common treat, but you should really be checking the label. Some brands contain xylitol, which is an artificial sweetener that’s extremely toxic to dogs even in tiny doses.

Foods to Absolutely Avoid

Some things are never safe for dogs — not even a nibble. This includes:

1. Grapes and raisins – Toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure.
2. Onions and garlic – Can damage red blood cells, leading to anaemia.
3. Chocolate – Contains theobromine, which is dangerous to dogs.
4. Alcohol – Even a small amount is toxic.
5. Cooked bones – They can splinter and cause choking or internal damage.
6. Xylitol – Found in sugar-free gum, sweets, and some peanut butters.

If your dog eats any of the above, call your vet immediately - don’t wait for symptoms to appear.

Safe Snacking!

Feeding your dog human food isn’t off-limits, but it should be done mindfully. Stick to small portions which are plain and unprocessed, and keep an eye out for any signs of allergies or digestive upset. After all, dogs are happiest when they’re well-fed, well-loved, and not suffering from a surprise bout of banana-induced diarrhoea.