What’s in Your Fridge? 10 Things You Can (and Can’t) Share With Your Dog

Ever open your fridge and see your pup giving you that look? You know the one—hopeful eyes, wagging tail, a silent plea for just a bite. We get it. Sharing food is a bonding moment. But not everything we eat is safe for dogs, and some common fridge items can actually be dangerous. Let’s take a look at 10 fridge staples that are totally fine (even healthy!) to share with your dog—and 10 you should absolutely keep off their plate.

2/8/20252 min read

10 Fridge Items You Can Share With Your Dog

These items are generally safe for dogs in small portions. Just remember—moderation is key, and plain is best (no added salt, sugar, sauces, or seasonings).

1. Carrots

Crunchy, low-calorie, and full of fiber and beta-carotene. Serve raw or lightly steamed.

2. Plain Cooked Chicken

Great for protein and easy on the tummy. Just make sure it’s boneless and unseasoned.

3. Green Beans

A dog-safe veggie packed with vitamins and fiber. Serve them steamed, boiled, or raw.

4. Plain Yogurt

A spoonful of plain, unsweetened yogurt (especially with live cultures) can help with digestion. Avoid flavored or sugar-added types.

5. Blueberries

These tiny berries are rich in antioxidants and make a great treat—fresh or frozen.

6. Apple Slices (No Seeds!)

Apples are full of vitamins, but the seeds contain cyanide, so always remove the core.

7. Cooked Eggs

Scrambled or hard-boiled, eggs are a solid source of protein and nutrients. Skip the butter, salt, and spices.

8. Pumpkin Purée

Great for digestion and a common remedy for mild constipation or diarrhea. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.

9. Peas

Peas offer protein, fiber, and vitamins. Most dogs enjoy them, especially mixed into their regular food.

10. Cottage Cheese

In small amounts, this can be a good source of calcium and protein. Just go easy—too much dairy can cause stomach upset in some dogs.

10 Fridge Items You Shouldn’t Share With Your Dog

Some of these might surprise you. Even small amounts can be harmful, so it's best to keep them completely out of your dog's reach.

1. Grapes and Raisins

These are highly toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure—even in small amounts.

2. Onions and Garlic

Raw, cooked, powdered—all forms are toxic to dogs and can damage red blood cells.

3. Avocado

Contains a substance called persin, which can be harmful to dogs (especially in large amounts). The pit is a choking hazard, too.

4. Deli Meats

Often high in sodium, nitrates, and preservatives—not ideal for dogs. Some also contain garlic powder.

5. Chocolate

You probably know this one already—chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.

6. Alcohol

Even tiny amounts of beer, wine, or liquor can lead to alcohol poisoning in dogs. That includes foods cooked with alcohol.

7. Coffee and Tea

Caffeine is dangerous for dogs and can cause rapid heartbeat, restlessness, and even seizures.

8. Macadamia Nuts

Highly toxic to dogs. Symptoms can include vomiting, tremors, and difficulty walking.

9. Xylitol-Containing Foods

Xylitol (a sugar substitute) is extremely toxic to dogs. It can cause a sudden insulin release and lead to hypoglycemia, seizures, or worse. Check yogurts, gums, and even peanut butter labels carefully.

10. Moldy or Spoiled Food

Just because your dog once ate something gross off the sidewalk doesn’t mean moldy leftovers are safe. Mold can produce toxins that seriously harm pets.

Final Woofs

Your dog trusts you to keep them safe, even when they’re drooling over your lunch. The occasional fridge treat is fine—just make sure it’s one that won’t send you rushing to the vet.

When in doubt, snap a pic of the label and check with your vet before sharing. And remember: treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Their main nutrition should still come from balanced dog food.

Next time those puppy eyes are begging you for a bite, you’ll know exactly what’s safe to share—and what’s best left behind the fridge door.