dog care dog food dog health dog treats natural dog treats

What Can Dogs Eat? Safe & Unsafe Foods (UK Guide 2026)

Written by Sharon Roberts
·3 mins read

As a dog owner, it's natural to want to share food with your furry friend. But not all human foods are safe for dogs — and some can even be dangerous.

In this guide, we'll break down what dogs can eat, what foods to avoid, and safer alternatives to keep your dog happy and healthy.

🐶 What Foods Can Dogs Eat Safely?

Many everyday foods are safe for dogs in moderation. Here are some common options:

✔️ Safe foods for dogs:

  • Cooked chicken (plain, no seasoning)
  • Carrots (great for teeth and low in calories)
  • Apples (remove seeds and core)
  • Rice (good for sensitive stomachs)
  • Peanut butter (xylitol-free only)
  • Blueberries (full of antioxidants)

These can be great as occasional treats — but should not replace a balanced dog diet.

⚠️ Foods Dogs Should NOT Eat

Some foods can cause serious health problems for dogs.

❌ Toxic foods to avoid:

  • Chocolate
  • Grapes & raisins
  • Onions & garlic
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Avocado
  • Xylitol (artificial sweetener)

Even small amounts of these foods can be harmful, so it's best to avoid them completely.

⚠️ Foods to Give With Caution

Some foods are not toxic but should only be given in small amounts:

  • Cheese (can cause stomach upset)
  • Bread (low nutritional value)
  • Cooked eggs (safe, but high in calories)
  • Fish (boneless and cooked only)

Always introduce new foods slowly and monitor your dog for any reactions.

🦴 A Safer Alternative: Natural Dog Treats

While some human foods are safe, it's often better to give your dog treats made specifically for them.

Natural dog chews are:

  • Safer
  • More digestible
  • Designed for chewing and dental health

👉 If your dog loves to chew, try long-lasting natural treats from our Long Lasting Natural Dog Chews for Aggressive Chewers collection, including:

These can help:

  • Reduce boredom
  • Support dental health
  • Keep your dog occupied for longer

🐕 Why Dogs Need the Right Treats

Dogs don't just eat for hunger — they also chew for:

  • Mental stimulation
  • Stress relief
  • Natural instinct

Giving the wrong foods can lead to:

  • Digestive issues
  • Weight gain
  • Long-term health problems

That's why choosing the right treats is so important.

🛒 Our Recommendation

Instead of sharing table scraps, choose natural dog treats designed for your pet.

👉 Explore our full range of NAW Natural Dog Treats, including:

Perfect for keeping your dog happy, healthy, and entertained.

🐾 Final Thoughts

Knowing what your dog can and can't eat is essential for keeping them safe.

While some human foods are fine in moderation, many can be harmful — so it's always best to stick to dog-safe treats and natural chews. Browse our full Dog Treats collection to find the perfect option for your dog.

💡 Tip:

When in doubt, always check before giving your dog new foods — or choose a trusted natural treat instead.