What Human Foods Are Toxic to Dogs

We love spoiling our dogs, but not every human snack is safe to share. Some everyday foods cause only mild tummy trouble, while others can trigger life-threatening reactions. This guide explains — in plain language — which human foods to keep away from your dog, why some items are worse than others, what symptoms to watch for, and simple steps to prevent accidental poisonings.

Why human foods can be dangerous for dogs

Dogs process certain chemicals differently than people. A substance that’s harmless to a human can linger in a dog’s body, attack a specific organ, or trigger a chain reaction (like sudden low blood sugar). Toxicity also depends on the dog’s size, age, health, and how much was eaten. Because there’s no one-size-fits-all rule, the safest choice is to assume a questionable food could be harmful and keep it out of reach.

Foods to absolutely avoid (and why)

1. Xylitol (sugar-free gum, candies, some nut butters & baked goods)

Why it’s dangerous: Xylitol causes a rapid spike in insulin in dogs, leading to a sharp drop in blood sugar. In many cases it can also damage the liver. Very small amounts may be enough to cause serious problems in small dogs.Signs: Sudden weakness, wobbliness, tremors, vomiting, seizures.

2. Chocolate and cocoa (especially dark & baking chocolate)

Why: Chocolate contains stimulants called methylxanthines. Dogs clear these slowly, so the compounds can build up and overstimulate the heart and nervous system. Darker chocolates contain more toxin per ounce.Signs: Hyperactivity, vomiting, fast heartbeat, tremors, collapse.

3. Grapes and raisins

Why: Grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney injury in susceptible dogs. Experts don’t know the exact culprit, and sensitivity varies — so no amount is safe.Signs: Vomiting, decreased urination, lethargy, abdominal pain.

4. Onions, garlic, leeks, and chives (Allium family)

Why: These foods damage red blood cells in dogs, potentially causing a form of anemia. Both raw and cooked forms are risky if eaten in quantity.Signs: Pale gums, weakness, rapid breathing, dark urine.

5. Macadamia nuts

Why: Macadamia nuts produce a distinct, short-lived toxicosis in dogs. The exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, but the effect is predictable and uncomfortable.Signs: Tremors, hind-leg weakness, vomiting, lethargy.

6. Alcohol and raw bread dough

Why: Alcohol depresses the nervous system. Raw bread dough can ferment in a dog’s stomach, creating alcohol and expanding, which can cause toxic effects and dangerous distension.Signs: Stumbling, disorientation, vomiting, breathing problems.

7. Fatty, greasy foods and table scraps (fried foods, bacon, fatty bones)

Why: High-fat meals can lead to pancreatitis — an inflamed, painful pancreas that often needs veterinary care. Cooked bones can also splinter and injure the digestive tract.Signs: Severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fever, reluctance to move.

8. Caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks)

Why: Caffeine acts much like theobromine in chocolate — it stimulates the nervous and cardiovascular systems and can be dangerous in concentrated forms.Signs: Restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, tremors.

9. Salt-heavy foods and salty doughs

Why: Consuming a lot of salt can upset electrolyte balance and lead to neurological problems.Signs: Excessive thirst, vomiting, tremors, seizures.

10. Avocado (pit and skin concerns)

Why: Avocado contains persin; while dogs are less sensitive than some species, large amounts can still upset the stomach. The pit is a choking and obstruction hazard.Signs: Vomiting, diarrhea, possible breathing difficulty in severe cases.

11. Raw or undercooked meat, eggs, and fish

Why: Raw animal products sometimes harbor bacteria and parasites that affect both pets and humans. Certain raw fish in some regions can also carry parasites or toxins.Signs: Diarrhea, vomiting, fever, weakness.

12. Moldy or spoiled foods

Why: Mold can produce mycotoxins — potent poisons that cause a range of symptoms. Spoiled food also carries bacterial risks.Signs: Vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, collapse.

13. Fruit pits and seeds (cherries, peach, apple seeds)

Why: Pits are choking hazards and can cause blockages; some seeds contain compounds that can release toxic substances (in large amounts). Always remove cores and seeds.Signs: Gagging, abdominal pain, vomiting.

14. Nutmeg and some spices

Why: Certain spices (nutmeg, large amounts of garlic powder, etc.) can cause neurologic signs or other toxic effects in concentrated doses.Signs: Disorientation, tremors, rapid heart rate.

15. Dairy (milk, cheese)

Why: Many adult dogs are lactose intolerant. Dairy usually causes digestive upset rather than life-threatening symptoms, but can still be unpleasant.Signs: Gas, diarrhea, vomiting.

Why some foods are more dangerous than others — the science, simply

1. Targeted damage: Some substances attack a specific organ (e.g., grapes → kidneys; xylitol → blood sugar/liver).

2. Metabolic speed: Dogs metabolize certain chemicals slowly, so compounds that clear rapidly in humans build up in dogs.

3. Dose relative to size: Toxicity often scales with how much was eaten versus the dog’s weight; a bite that’s benign for a Labrador may be dangerous for a Chihuahua.

4. Unknown factors: For a few foods (like grapes and macadamia nuts), veterinarians don’t know the exact toxin — which is why avoidance is the safest policy.

What to do if your dog eats something questionable

1. Stay calm and note details: What did they eat, how much, and when? Photos or packaging help.

2. Call your veterinarian right away or a pet poison helpline for immediate advice. Be ready to describe the dog (weight, age, health) and the food.

3. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed. Some substances make vomiting dangerous or ineffective.

4. If the dog is seizing, has trouble breathing, collapses, or is unresponsive, go to an emergency clinic immediately.

   
   

Prevention tips that work

• Keep dangerous foods out of reach and out of sight.

• Use dog-proof trash cans and store baking supplies where curious noses can’t find them.

• Teach “leave it” and practice it around counters and at the table.

• Don’t reward begging by offering table scraps — use dog-safe treats instead.

• Check ingredient lists for hidden sweeteners (xylitol is sneaky).

Final note from Trails & Tails Dog Walking

Caring for a dog means keeping them safe from curious snacking. If you want a printable fridge poster listing the top foods to avoid, or a short card to hand to guests at gatherings, we’ll make one for you—just tell us which format you prefer. Keep treats simple, keep snacks stored, and as always — if something seems wrong, get professional advice. Your dog’s life could depend on the decision you make in those first few minutes. 🐾

Make Your Seattle Apartment Deck Pet-Friendly

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean your pet can’t enjoy fresh air and sunshine. With a few smart changes, your deck or balcony can be a safe, relaxing outdoor space for dogs — and even a cozy catio for curious felines. Below is a detailed, practical guide with tried-and-true tips we use on our Seattle walks and in client homes.

1) Safety first: fence it in (yes, even for cats)

Even “indoor” animals can slip, jump, or get spooked — and a fall from a balcony can cause serious injury for Seattle pets. For that reason we always recommend physically enclosing the deck with a secure barrier: cat netting, plexiglass panels, framed enclosures, or a custom railing-top fence. Commercial catio and balcony enclosures are widely used and designed specifically to prevent escape and accidental falls. If you build or install anything permanent, confirm landlord/building rules and, for higher floors, consider professional installation for stability. (Tractive)

Quick tips:

• Use heavy-duty netting or mesh that’s UV and weather resistant.

• Secure all gaps at floor and railing level so small paws can’t wiggle through.

• Anchor netting or panels safely — don’t rely on light clamps that can fail if your pet leans on them.

• Supervise early outings until you’re certain your pet won’t test the boundaries.

2) Making a potty area: roll-out grass vs. grass pee pads (our preferred option)

If you want your deck to double as a potty spot, there are two common approaches:

A. Roll-out artificial turf / full-deck turf — looks natural and covers a large area. It’s a good option if you want a grassy feel and have room for drainage and regular cleaning. Choose pet-rated turf that allows drainage and is made from non-toxic materials. Experts recommend checking fiber quality and drainage design before installing. (The Spruce Pets)

B. Grass pee pads / tray systems (preferred for many apartment owners) — these are smaller trays or mats topped with real or high-quality synthetic grass. They’re compact, easy to swap/replace, and designed for balcony use (no digging, less mess). Many pet owners find live-grass trays or hydroponic patches make training easier because dogs prefer the scent of real grass, while synthetic pads are lower maintenance. Brands and products vary, but the concept is dependable for apartment living. (Fresh Patch, DoggieLawn)

Which to choose? If you need lower maintenance and easier odor control, start with a grass pee pad. If you have a larger deck and want a more natural look, artificial turf with proper drainage works well.

3) Water access + routine cleaning = fewer smells and flies

Setting up easy water access near the potty area is helpful for diluting urine and rinsing the surface. Regular rinsing and weekly deeper cleanings will go a long way toward preventing odors and flies. For tray systems and artificial turf: empty catch trays, rinse with water, and use a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner as needed — these break down odor molecules rather than just masking them. For synthetic turf, many manufacturers recommend periodic rinsing and enzyme sprays or specialized turf cleaners to keep things fresh. Doing a quick hose-down a couple times a week (and a thorough enzymatic clean once weekly or as needed) prevents buildup and makes the area far more pleasant for you and your neighbors. (Wag!, DoggieLawn, The Washington Post)

Cleaning checklist:

• Remove solid waste immediately.

• Rinse the pad or turf after heavy use.

• Use enzyme cleaners formulated for pet urine to neutralize ammonia and uric acid.

• Swap or replace real-grass trays per manufacturer guidance; synthetic pads may need periodic deep cleans.

4) Plants, flowers, and scents — what’s safe, what’s not for Seattle pets

Fragrant flowers and green planters are a lovely way to make the deck inviting and can help mask mild outdoor odors. However — important safety note — many common garden and house plants are toxic to dogs and cats. Before adding planters, check each plant against an authoritative list (for example, the ASPCA maintains searchable toxic/non-toxic plant lists). Avoid known hazards like sago palm, many lilies (dangerous for cats), oleander, azaleas, and others. If you love flowers, pick pet-safe varieties and keep plants out of reach or mounted behind the protective fencing. (ASPCA). You can also check out our post for some more info.

Pet-safe planter suggestions: herbs (rosemary, basil in moderation), gerbera daisies, spider plants, and cat grass (for cats). Always confirm the species before buying.

5) Flooring, shade, and temperament: design for comfort

• Non-slip surfaces: Dogs can slip on wet decking. Add non-slip tiles, outdoor rugs (pet-safe), or textured turf to provide traction.

• Shade & shelter: Provide a shaded nook or small canopy. Even short sun sessions can get hot on decks.

• Temperature checks: In summer, decking and turf can heat up. Place a paw test before long play and offer cool water.

• Wind and noise: Some pets are anxious with city noise or wind. Add visual barriers (bamboo screens or plant screens behind fencing) to reduce stress.

  
  

6) Training & etiquette: teach the deck routine

Make the deck a predictable potty spot by:

• Bringing the dog to the spot on leash and cueing (“go potty”) during training.

• Rewarding successful use with small treats/cheers.

• Limiting access until your pet reliably uses the designated area.

• Cleaning promptly — odors attract repeat marking.

For apartment dwellers, consistent cues and a tidy routine make the difference between a well-used petio and an unwanted smell problem.

7) Landlord rules, neighbors & safety rules to remember

• Always check your lease and building rules before installing fencing, netting, or heavier fixtures.

• Let neighbors know you’re creating a pet area (courtesy helps avoid complaints about odors or usage).

• Avoid chemical fertilizers and pesticides on planters or turf — those can be dangerous to pets.

  
  

8) Quick shopping & product ideas (what to look for)

• Catio/netting kits — sturdy, UV-resistant mesh or framed balcony enclosures for cats and small dogs.

• Real grass trays (hydroponic) — short-term swaps of live grass for training; great scent for dogs.

• Synthetic turf pads — pet-rated turf with perforations and drain trays for balconies.

• Enzymatic cleaners — formulated to neutralize pet urine odor (not just mask it).

  
  

Final thoughts from Trails & Tails (Seattle)

A little planning and maintenance turn an ordinary apartment deck into a safe, useful, and pleasant outdoor space for your pet. The three big priorities are safety (fencing and fall prevention), easy-to-clean potty solutions (pads/trays or turf with drainage), and regular cleaning/water access to keep smells and flies away. If you’d like, we can help you evaluate your deck during a walk, recommend specific tray/turf products we’ve seen work well, or craft a short training plan so your dog learns the deck routine quickly.

Sources & further reading: ASPCA toxic plant lists; catio and balcony safety guides; product pages and reviews for grass potty pads and artificial turf; cleaning and odor control guides for pet outdoor areas. (ASPCA, Tractive, Fresh Patch, The Washington Post)

Plants To Avoid When Seattle Dog Walking

Why dogs eat grass while walking— and why you should still be cautious

Dogs eating a blade or two of grass is common and often normal behavior. Vets and pet experts give several possible reasons: instinctual behavior, boredom, an attempt to self-soothe an upset stomach, or (less commonly) pica from a dietary deficiency. However, eating large amounts of grass can make a dog vomit, and grass (or lawn) can also be contaminated with pesticides, herbicides, or parasites. If you notice persistent grass-eating, repeated vomiting, lethargy, or other worrying signs, check with your vet. (Vca, Live Science, WebMD)

The big list: common plants that are toxic to dogs

(If you garden or walk in neighborhood beds, scan this list and remove or fence off these plants where possible.)

• Sago palm (Cycas spp.) — extremely toxic; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and liver failure. Even small amounts (especially the seeds) are dangerous. (ASPCA, Chewy)

• Oleander — contains cardiac glycosides; ingestion can cause cardiac arrhythmias and can be fatal. (ASPCA)

• Azalea / Rhododendron — can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and cardiovascular signs. (ASPCA)

• Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) — causes severe vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, organ damage (liver/ kidney) and can be fatal. (ASPCA)

• Tulips & Hyacinths (bulbs) — bulbs are more toxic than flowers; can cause drooling, vomiting, cardiac problems in severe cases. (ASPCA)

• Daffodils (Narcissus) — bulbs especially can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even cardiac arrhythmia/low blood pressure in big ingestions. (ASPCA)

• Foxglove (Digitalis) — contains potent cardiac compounds; can cause fatal heart abnormalities. (ASPCA)

• Dieffenbachia / Dumb cane, philodendron, pothos (Araceae family) — cause oral irritation, drooling, difficulty swallowing, vomiting. (ASPCA)

• Amaryllis, Cyclamen, Kalanchoe — common holiday/house plants that can cause GI upset and more serious signs depending on species and amount. (ASPCA, ASPCA Pet Insurance)

• Eucalyptus — can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness. (ASPCA Pet Insurance)

• Larkspur, larkspur-type plants and gladiolus — can cause neurologic signs and cardiac problems in larger ingestions. (ASPCA)

• Mistletoe & Holly (holiday plants) — GI upset, weakness, cardiac effects with larger ingestions. (ASPCA)

• Sago palm and other cycads — listed separately because of severity; see above. (ASPCA)

This is not an exhaustive list — the ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline maintain searchable, up-to-date plant databases that are excellent references. If you suspect ingestion of any plant and can’t identify it, call a poison expert or your veterinarian right away. (ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline)

Quick symptoms to watch for after plant ingestion

• Drooling, pawing at the mouth, or visible oral irritation

• Vomiting or diarrhea (may be bloody)

• Lethargy, weakness, collapse

• Tremors, seizures, or unsteady gait

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathingIf you see any of the above after your dog chews a plant, treat it like an emergency. (ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline)

Prevention: make walks and yards safer

• Know your neighborhood plants. Learn what’s planted on your block and avoid flower beds that have high-risk plants.

• Leash & supervise. Keep curious dogs close on walks and teach the leave it cue so you can interrupt plant chewing.

• Remove or fence off toxic plants from your yard. Replace them with pet-safe alternatives (roses, some palms, gerbera daisies, spider plants — but always double-check). (AP News)

• Skip chemically treated lawns. Pesticides and herbicides can make otherwise harmless grass dangerous. Ask neighbors/landscapers about treatments and avoid recently treated areas. (Live Science)

• Provide enrichment and a balanced diet. Boredom and nutritional gaps can encourage pica/grass eating — adequate exercise, mental stimulation, and high-quality food help. If grass-eating is frequent, discuss diet and behavior with your vet. (PetMD, Vca)

If your dog eats a suspicious plant — what to do right now

1. Stay calm, remove access to the plant, and note what (and how much) was eaten. If possible, take a photo of the plant.

2. Do NOT induce vomiting or give home “antidotes” without professional instruction. Some remedies make things worse. (Pet Poison Helpline)

3. Call your veterinarian immediately and/or one of these poison hotlines for guidance:

   • ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435. (ASPCA)

   • Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661 (US/Canada). (Pet Poison Helpline)

4. If your dog is drooling, having trouble breathing, seizing, or collapsing, get to an emergency vet now (call first if possible). (Cornell Vet College)

Final notes from Trails & Tails (Seattle)

We love exploring green spaces with your pups — but green doesn’t always mean safe. If you’re unsure whether a plant in your yard or on your walk route is risky for dogs, snap a photo and ask your vet or the ASPCA/Pet Poison Helpline. And if your dog is a frequent grass-snacker, give us a heads up so we can help redirect them on walks (extra attention, enrichment, or training cues can make a big difference).

Stay safe, sniff responsibly, and give your pups a belly rub from us. — Michelle & the Trails & Tails team

Sources & further reading

• ASPCA Toxic & Non-Toxic Plant Lists (searchable database). (ASPCA)

• Pet Poison Helpline — poison lists & emergency guidance. (Pet Poison Helpline)

• VCA, WebMD, PetMD — why dogs eat grass (behavioral context). (Vca, WebMD, PetMD)

• Chewy / veterinary articles — plant highlights (sago palm severity, holiday plants, etc.). (Chewy, AP News)

If you’d like, I can:

• Turn this into a printable handout to leave at local dog-friendly cafés, or

• Create a one-page “plants to avoid” yard sign you can print and tape to your gate.

Which would be most helpful?