Prioritizing Fresh Dog Food Options
As dog owners, we all want to spoil our furry friends with love, attention and the occasional treat. But not all human foods are safe for dogs—in fact, some can be dangerous. Feeding your dog the wrong food can lead to serious health problems, including vomiting, organ damage and even death in extreme cases. Understanding which foods are toxic to dogs is essential to keeping them safe and healthy.
Here are five of the worst foods you should never feed your dog, along with some nutritious alternatives from trusted fresh dog food brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie and others. Using fresh dog food options is a great way to keep your pet happy and healthy!
5 of the Worst Foods for Dogs
1. Chocolate
Chocolate is probably the most well-known food hazard for dogs, and for good reason. It contains theobromine and caffeine, two substances that dogs can’t metabolize efficiently. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous types, but even small amounts of milk chocolate can be harmful.
When a dog eats chocolate, symptoms can range from vomiting and diarrhea to tremors, seizures and in severe cases, death. The risk increases with the dog’s size and the amount and type of chocolate consumed. If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, it’s important to call your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
2. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins may seem like harmless snacks, but they can be highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can lead to sudden kidney failure, which can be fatal. The exact substance in grapes that causes this reaction is still unknown, but the effects can be devastating.
Symptoms usually appear within a few hours and may include vomiting, lethargy and loss of appetite. Without prompt veterinary treatment, kidney damage can occur rapidly. Because there’s no known safe amount, it’s best to avoid giving your dog any grapes or raisins altogether.
Related Search Topics (Ads)
3. Onions and Garlic
Onions, garlic and other members of the allium family (like leeks and chives) can cause serious damage to a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. These ingredients are dangerous whether they’re raw, cooked, powdered or part of another food like soup or seasoning.
The symptoms may not show up right away. Over time, dogs may become weak, lethargic and lose interest in food. In more severe cases, dogs may collapse or have difficulty breathing. Garlic is even more potent than onions, so even a small amount can be toxic.
4. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free gums, candies, baked goods and even some peanut butters. While it's safe for humans, it can be deadly for dogs. When a dog consumes xylitol, it triggers a rapid release of insulin, which can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Within 10 to 60 minutes of eating something with xylitol, dogs may experience vomiting, weakness, loss of coordination, seizures and in severe cases, liver failure. Always check ingredient labels, especially for treats or snacks that may seem harmless.
5. Cooked Bones
Many people think it's natural to give dogs bones, but cooked bones—especially from chicken, turkey or pork—can splinter easily and pose a serious choking hazard. They can also puncture your dog’s digestive tract or cause blockages.
Raw bones from reputable sources can sometimes be safe under supervision, but cooked bones are a definite no. If your dog loves to chew, opt for safe alternatives like dental chews or veterinarian-approved rawhide-free treats.
Healthy, Fresh Dog Food Options
Fortunately, there are many healthy and fresh dog food options that can give your pup the nutrition they need without the risks. These companies deliver balanced meals made from real ingredients and avoid fillers and preservatives found in many commercial brands.
The Farmer’s Dog
The Farmer’s Dog offers human-grade meals tailored to your dog’s age, breed, activity level and health needs. Each meal is cooked fresh and delivered right to your door. Their recipes use simple ingredients like turkey, carrots, sweet potatoes and lentils—no artificial stuff, just real food your dog will love.
Ollie
Ollie is another popular brand that makes fresh, vet-formulated meals. They use ingredients like beef, lamb, chicken and veggies. They also offer supplements and treats made from healthy, whole foods. Ollie’s personalized plans make it easy to keep your dog on a healthy diet that suits their needs.
Spot & Tango
Spot & Tango delivers fresh, ready-to-serve meals made without artificial additives or preservatives. Their “UnKibble” option gives you the convenience of dry food with the quality of fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for pet owners who want healthy food with less hassle.
Nom Nom
Nom Nom also provides freshly cooked meals portioned for your dog. Their recipes are developed by veterinary nutritionists and made with restaurant-quality ingredients. They even offer gut health testing and personalized supplement options.
These brands make it easy to feed your dog a safe, nutritious diet without guessing what's in their bowl.
Keep Your Dog Safe and Healthy
Feeding your dog human food can be tempting, but knowing which foods are dangerous is the first step to protecting your pet. Avoid chocolate, grapes, onions, xylitol and cooked bones at all costs. Instead, stick with healthy, fresh options from trusted pet food companies that focus on real, whole ingredients.
Your dog depends on you to make the right choices. By staying informed and choosing wisely, you’re giving them the best chance at a long, happy and healthy life.
Keep reading to learn how to find the right pet insurance policy.