20 Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can and Can't Eat

Treat your dog to a healthy and delicious snack while ensuring their safety.

Watermelon is packed with vitamin A, B-6, and C and makes a tasty snack for your dog.
Watermelon is packed with vitamin A, B-6, and C and makes a tasty snack for your dog. | Iuliia Bondar/GettyImages

It’s normal to want to spoil your dog with a treat every once in a while. Human foods, including vegetables and fruits, are a delicacy to our canine companions—and they can add a boost of fiber and nutrients to their diet. However, not all produce is created equal. Some foods are toxic to dogs, so it’s crucial to know which items they can eat and which ones they can’t. Below are the canine dietary recommendations for 40 fruits and vegetables.

  1. 20 Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can Eat
  2. 20 Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Cannot Eat

You’ll notice that many of the fruits labeled safe still require the removal of seeds and cores. Seeds, pips, and stones (or pits) usually contain cyanide. The compound can be harmful to dogs, so you should remove those parts from the fruit or avoid the food altogether. Watermelon seeds and rinds can also cause intestinal blockages—therefore, owners should keep them away from their pets.

Some of the non-toxic items can still cause gastrointestinal issues for dogs. Like humans, pets may feel bloated after consuming cruciferous vegetables like broccoli in large amounts. That’s because they can cause gas—which, even if it doesn’t make your dog sick, may get them kicked out of the bedroom. When cooked, these veggies are best for your dog because they’re easier to digest. Toxic foods like grapes and avocados are a different story. If you suspect your dog has eaten any of the dangerous fruits or veggies on the second list, contact your vet immediately.

Remember that human food should generally be given to dogs in moderation, especially those high in sugar like bananas and berries. While it can be a healthy supplement to their diet, dogs can’t live on fruits and vegetables alone. Ensure your dog is getting is getting a proper, balanced diet before introducing vegetarian treats. According to experts, these are the best dog food brands out there.

20 Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can Eat

  1. Apples (core and seeds removed)
  2. Strawberries
  3. Oranges (peeled)
  4. Ripe, red tomatoes (stem and leaves removed)
  5. Bananas
  6. Blueberries
  7. Cucumbers
  8. Peaches (pit removed)
  9. Pears (seeds removed)
  10. Pineapple
  11. Watermelon (rind and seeds and removed)
  12. Peas
  13. Cooked potatoes
  14. Green beans
  15. Carrots
  16. Broccoli (in small amounts to avoid gastric irritation)
  17. Celery
  18. Zucchini
  19. Squash
  20. Kale (in small amounts to avoid gastric irritation)

20 Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Cannot Eat

  1. Grapes
  2. Raisins
  3. Unripe tomatoes and tomato leaves and stems 
  4. Avocados
  5. Cherries
  6. Wild mushrooms
  7. Onions
  8. Leeks
  9. Chives
  10. Scallions
  11. Garlic
  12. Shallots
  13. Raw potatoes
  14. Uncooked dried beans
  15. Limes
  16. Lemons
  17. Rhubarb
  18. Wild berries
  19. Starfruit
  20. Passionfruit

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