Dog Nutrition — Feeding, Treats & Toxic Foods
What to feed your dog, how much, and which human foods are safe or dangerous. Covers toxic foods, bananas, and daily feeding amounts.
Foods Toxic to Dogs — The List Every Owner Needs
The most dangerous are chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, xylitol (in sugar-free gum), and alcohol. Even small amounts can be serious for a small dog.
Can Dogs Eat Bananas? Yes — in Moderation
Yes, bananas are safe for dogs in small amounts. They are a healthy treat, but their sugar and fiber mean they should stay an occasional snack, not a daily staple.
How Much Should I Feed My Dog? (By Weight and Age)
Start from your dog's target weight and the food's calorie label, then adjust by body condition — you should feel ribs but not see them.
Can Dogs Eat Apples? Yes — Seeds and Core Out
Yes, apples are safe and healthy for dogs in moderation. The flesh is fine; the seeds and core are the parts to skip.
Can Dogs Eat Watermelon? Yes — Rind and Seeds Off
Yes, watermelon is safe for dogs — the red flesh only. Leave out the rind and the seeds, which can upset the stomach or cause a blockage.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese? In Small Amounts, Sometimes
Most dogs can eat a small amount of cheese, but many are lactose intolerant and all should keep it occasional because of the fat and salt.
Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter? Yes — Read the Label First
Yes, plain peanut butter is a great dog treat — but only if it contains no xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Always read the label.
Can Dogs Eat Carrots? Yes — A Near-Perfect Treat
Yes, carrots are one of the best treats you can give a dog: low in calories, high in fiber and vitamin A, and a crunchy chew many dogs enjoy.
Can Dogs Eat Eggs? Cooked, Plain, and Moderate
Yes, cooked eggs are a healthy, protein-rich addition to a dog's diet. Raw eggs are best avoided because of salmonella risk and a biotin concern.
Can Dogs Eat Chicken? Cooked, Plain, Boneless
Yes, plain cooked chicken is one of the safest, most common proteins for dogs. The risks are cooked bones and rich seasoning, not the meat itself.
Can Dogs Drink Milk? Usually Not Worth It
Most dogs should skip milk. Adult dogs are commonly lactose intolerant, and a bowl of milk more often leads to gas and diarrhea than any benefit.
Can Dogs Eat Strawberries? Yes — Wash and Limit
Yes, strawberries are safe for dogs in moderation. They are low in calories and full of vitamin C, but their natural sugar means they should stay an occasional treat.
Can Dogs Eat Grapes? NO — They Are Toxic
No — grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs and can cause sudden, severe kidney failure. There is no safe amount, so treat any ingestion as an emergency.
Can Dogs Eat Chocolate? NO — It Is Toxic
No — chocolate is toxic to dogs because it contains theobromine, which they cannot metabolize well. Dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous.
Can Dogs Eat Avocado? Risky — Best Avoided
Avocado is best avoided. The flesh is the safest part but still high in fat; the pit is a choking hazard and the skin and leaves carry persin, which upsets the gut.
Good nutrition is the cheapest health insurance you can buy for a dog. Start with how much to feed, then learn which table scraps are safe and which can land you in the ER.