If you’re anything like me, you’ve looked into your dog’s eyes mid-snack and wondered, “Can I share just a little bit?” I get it—my pup Luna is family, and sharing food feels like love. But not everything from our plates is safe for her bowl.
Over the years, I’ve learned which bites bring her joy, and which ones could send us racing to the vet.
Cooked Chicken
Luna’s ears perk up the second I start shredding warm, cooked chicken. It’s lean, protein-packed, and gentle on her tummy—especially when she’s feeling under the weather.
I keep it plain with no seasoning or skin. Mixed with rice or served alone, it’s her version of comfort food.
Carrots
Crunchy and slightly sweet, carrots double as a healthy treat and a chew toy. I give my fur-baby baby carrots cold from the fridge—she crunches them like she’s on a mission.
They’re low-calorie, high in fiber, and a great snack for dogs who love to munch. Plus, they’re great for her teeth.
Plain Rice
Warm, soft rice has been my go-to when Luna’s stomach is feeling off. It’s easy to digest, filling, and great with a little chicken.
I use white rice for its blandness, and she laps it up like it’s something special. Sometimes, simple really is best.
Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin (not pie filling!) is a digestive hero. I spoon a little into Luna’s bowl when things aren’t moving quite right—and like magic, she’s back on track.
It’s full of fiber and has a creamy texture she actually seems to enjoy. Autumn or not, it’s a staple in our pantry.
Apples (No Seeds)
Crisp apple slices are like candy for Luna. She loves the crunch, and I love knowing she’s getting vitamins without added sugar. I always cut out the core and seeds, which can be harmful.
On hot days, I even freeze the slices for a refreshing treat.
Peanut Butter (Xylitol-Free)
Luna would do backflips for peanut butter. I stuff it into her chew toys, use it for training, or just let her lick it off a spoon. It’s rich, satisfying, and packed with protein and healthy fat.
But I double-check that it’s xylitol-free—because even a tiny bit of that sweetener is dangerous.
Green Beans
These crunchy green spears are Luna’s surprise favorite. Whether fresh or cooked (no salt!), they’re full of fiber and make her feel like she’s part of dinnertime.
I started adding them to her kibble for volume, and now she looks for them. It’s the only “vegetable” she’ll beg for.
Blueberries
Tiny, juicy, and packed with antioxidants, blueberries are a fun little treat I toss across the floor like a game. Luna pounces after them like they’re treasure.
They’re sweet without being sugary, and small enough to serve safely as-is. I always wash them first, of course—she’s a classy girl.
Cooked Salmon
Cooked salmon is a delicious and nutritious treat for dogs. Flaky, rich, and full of healthy omega-3s, salmon makes Luna’s coat shine like she just got back from the groomer.
I give her small, boneless pieces, cooked with zero seasoning. She sniffs it out before it hits the bowl. It’s a “special occasion” protein, and she knows it.
Chocolate
There’s always a moment during dessert when Luna gives me those big hopeful eyes. But chocolate is a no-go, full stop.
It contains theobromine, which dogs can’t process, and it can cause everything from vomiting to seizures. I keep all chocolate out of reach—no exceptions.
Grapes And Raisins
Even a few grapes or raisins can be toxic to dogs, damaging their kidneys in ways we don’t fully understand. I found that out the scary way when a friend’s dog got sick from trail mix.
Now, if I drop one, I sprint to grab it before Luna does.
Onions And Garlic
Anything from onion rings to garlicky pasta is off-limits. These strong-flavored foods can hurt a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Cooked or raw, powdered or fresh—they’re all risky.
Luna might love the smell, but she’s not getting a bite.
Avocados
It surprised me, too, but avocados can be risky for dogs. The pit is a choking hazard, and the flesh contains a toxin called persin. While a little may not hurt every dog, it’s not worth the risk.
I save the guac for me and give Luna a carrot instead.
Macadamia Nuts
Even a few macadamia nuts can make a dog seriously sick—weakness, tremors, and vomiting aren’t worth the crunch. I avoid mixed nuts entirely, just to be safe.
My pup doesn’t miss them (she prefers popcorn anyway), and I rest easier not having them in the house.
Alcohol
Luna once sniffed a spilled beer at a barbecue, and I panicked. Even small amounts of alcohol can be incredibly dangerous to dogs—slowing their heart rate, lowering blood sugar, and more.
Now I watch every open drink like a hawk. Water bowl only, thank you very much.
Caffeinated Drinks
Soda, coffee, tea, and anything with caffeine can overstimulate a dog’s nervous system. It may seem harmless in tiny amounts, but it can lead to restlessness, tremors, or worse.
I always finish my morning cup before cuddling up with Luna, because accidents happen fast when wagging tails are involved.
Cooked Bones
It’s tempting to toss a leftover bone to your pup, but cooked bones can splinter dangerously. They can puncture the stomach or get stuck in the throat.
I stick to raw bones made for dogs, or better yet, chew toys. Luna still thinks she’s getting something special.