What Can't Teddy Dogs Eat?

Teddy tiny paws and soulful eyes make us want to spoil our fur babies, but when it comes to food, some human snacks can turn from sweet treats into silent dangers. Let’s chat about the foods that should never cross your Teddy’s bowl—because keeping them healthy starts with what we keep out of their diet.

First up: the obvious villains. Chocolate, coffee, and tea contain theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs—even a small amount can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or worse. Dark chocolate is the most dangerous, but even milk chocolate or cocoa powder in baked goods pose a risk. Keep those Valentine’s Day chocolates or holiday cookies well out of reach—your Teddy’s curiosity isn’t worth the trip to the emergency vet.

Next, grapes and raisins. These tiny treats are a mystery—no one knows exactly why, but they can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, including our little Teddies. A single raisin in a muffin or a grape rolled under the table could spell trouble. Same goes for currants and any dried fruit containing sulfites—check those trail mix ingredients carefully when snacking together.

Onions, garlic, and chives might flavor our meals, but they’re toxic to dogs. They contain compounds that damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. This includes powders, sauces, and even broths—so skip sharing your pasta sauce or pizza toppings. And while we’re on veggies, avoid avocados too! The pit is a choking hazard, and the fruit contains persin, which can cause vomiting or diarrhea in small dogs.

Sugary and fatty foods are sneaky dangers. Teddy dogs love stealing a bite of cake or ice cream, but excess sugar leads to obesity, dental issues, and even diabetes. Worse, many sugar-free products (like gum, candy, or baked goods) contain xylitol, a sweetener that triggers a dangerous insulin spike in dogs. One tiny piece could land them in critical care—always check labels for this hidden toxin.

Fried foods and table scraps might seem harmless, but fatty meats, butter, or gravy can cause pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms like vomiting and lethargy can hit fast, especially in small breeds. Save the grilled chicken breast (plain, no seasoning!) for occasional treats, and steer clear of anything cooked in oil or laden with salt.

Alcohol is a definite no. Even a sip of beer, wine, or spirits can cause intoxication, breathing difficulties, or coma in tiny Teddies. Keep cocktails and cooking wines sealed tight, and never let them lick spilled drinks—their small body weight means even a little alcohol hits hard.

What about “healthy” human foods? Some veggies and fruits need caution too. While apples (without seeds) and blueberries are great, avoid raw potatoes, tomatoes (green parts), and mushrooms—they can be poisonous. And while carrots are a safe crunch, never feed them bones, even “healthy” ones like chicken or fish—they splinter and can pierce intestines.

Here’s a pro tip: train your Teddy to ignore food on the table or floor (yes, those puppy eyes are tough, but consistency is key!). Store snacks in sealed containers, keep trash cans latched, and educate everyone in the house about these risks. In many places, pet owners can be held liable for neglect if a preventable toxicity occurs, so it’s not just about health—it’s about responsibility too.

If your Teddy does snag something risky, act fast. Call your vet or a pet poison hotline immediately—time is critical for treatments like inducing vomiting or administering antidotes. Keep their contact info saved in your phone, along with the nearest 24/7 emergency clinic.

At the end of the day, feeding your Teddy is an act of love—and that love means being vigilant. Stick to high-quality commercial dog food (look for AAFCO certification, a common standard in many countries) and offer safe, vet-approved treats like plain boiled chicken, pumpkin, or freeze-dried liver.

So go ahead, spoil them with belly rubs and playtime—but when it comes to food, stick to what’s safe. A well-fed Teddy is a happy Teddy, and that’s the best recipe for a long, wag-filled life together.