Those hopeful eyes. That perfectly timed head tilt. Dogs know exactly how to negotiate for a bite.
But knowing which toxic foods for dogs to avoid matters more than their snack-time sales pitch. At PetWell, we believe in nourishing pets with real, human-grade ingredients. That also means recognising that something suitable for us isn’t automatically suitable for them.
Think your dog has eaten something poisonous? Call your vet immediately. You can also contact the Australian Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738. Consultation fees apply. www.animalpoisons.com.au
At PetWell, we believe in real food for pets, whole, human-grade ingredients that nourish, not harm. But knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to feed
Which foods are toxic to dogs?
Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, xylitol, alcohol and macadamia nuts can poison dogs. Raw yeast dough and excessive salt are also dangerous. Cooked bones belong on the avoid list because they can cause choking or internal injuries. The risk depends on the food, amount eaten and individual dog.
1. Chocolate and caffeine
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which affect a dog’s heart and nervous system. Dark chocolate, baking chocolate and cocoa powder are particularly concentrated. Signs of poisoning include vomiting, a racing heartbeat, tremors and seizures.
Keep coffee grounds and other caffeine-containing products out of reach too.
2. Onions, leeks and chives
These vegetables can damage red blood cells and cause anaemia. Raw, cooked, dried and powdered forms can pose risks, including ingredients hiding in gravy, stock and pasta sauces.
3. Grapes, raisins and sultanas
These can cause serious kidney injury, and sensitivity varies between dogs. There’s no reliably safe serving to recommend.
Think beyond the fruit bowl: raisin toast, hot cross buns and Christmas cake count too. If your dog eats any, seek veterinary advice immediately.
4. Xylitol
This sweetener appears in some sugar-free gum, lollies, baked goods and peanut butters. It can cause dangerously low blood sugar and, in some cases, liver failure.
Read the ingredients: “natural” on the front of a jar doesn’t confirm it’s xylitol-free.
5. Alcohol
Alcoholic drinks and foods containing alcohol can cause vomiting, poor coordination, breathing difficulties and potentially fatal poisoning. Keep glasses and cocktail leftovers away from curious noses.
6. Macadamia nuts
Macadamias can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors and an elevated temperature. Chocolate-coated nuts and macadamia biscuits may contain additional hazards.
7. Excessively salty foods
Dogs need sodium, but excessive salt can cause poisoning. Heavily salted snacks shouldn’t be part of their treat routine.
One dropped chip isn’t automatically a poisoning emergency; the amount eaten, your dog’s size and access to water affect the risk.
8. Raw yeast dough
Unbaked bread or pizza dough can expand in the stomach, causing dangerous bloating. Fermenting yeast also produces alcohol.
Leave rising dough somewhere your four-legged kitchen supervisor can’t reach.
9. Cooked bones
Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking, digestive injuries or blockages. Keep roast chicken carcasses and barbecue bones out of reach, including in the bin.
Prefer a raw meaty option? PetWell’s Freeze-Dried Chicken Necks are freeze-dried rather than cooked. Choose treats appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing habits, and always supervise them while eating.
What to do if your dog eats toxic food?
Contact your vet or the Animal Poisons Helpline immediately. Have your dog’s weight, the food or packaging, the approximate amount eaten and the time of ingestion ready. Don’t induce vomiting or give food, drinks or home remedies unless instructed. Supplements are not a treatment for poisoning. www.animalpoisons.com.au
Should you wait for symptoms after your dog eats toxic food?
No. Contact your vet promptly, even if your dog seems fine. Some effects can be delayed, and early advice helps determine whether treatment is needed. Looking well immediately afterwards doesn’t rule out poisoning.
What can you offer your dog instead?
Keep a suitable treat handy so sharing a moment doesn’t mean sharing your snacks.
PetWell’s Freeze-Dried Chicken Breast and Turkey Breast offer single-ingredient, human-grade options without added seasonings. Choose treats suited to your dog’s dietary needs, serve appropriately sized pieces and supervise snack time.
Because saying no to your chocolate doesn’t mean saying no to a little joy.
Explore PetWell’s freeze-dried treats for something to offer those hopeful eyes.
This article provides general information and does not replace veterinary advice.
Research
Grape and raisin toxicity
Xylitol Toxicosis in Dogs
Disclaimer: The entire contents of PetWell emails and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet health care decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
Posted By Ayda Hornak - Trained in Canine Phycology and Natural Animal Nutrition Care. Originally published March2022. Updated October 2026.
