5 Foods That Can Mess With Your Dog’s Gut (And Why You Should Keep Them Away!)
We all love sharing food with our dogs — that little face staring up at you from under the table is almost impossible to resist! But as tempting as it is to give them a bite of your snack, not all human foods sit well with canine tummies.
Some ingredients that are harmless (or even healthy) for us can cause serious digestive upset or worse for dogs.
Here are the top 5 common culprits that can really mess with your dog’s gut
1. Chocolate
It contains theobromine and caffeine, two compounds dogs can’t metabolize efficiently. Even a small amount can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, restlessness, and in severe cases, toxicity. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are the most dangerous — always keep them out of reach.
Zazu & Co’s Tip: If your dog loves the taste of chocolate, reach for our Carob Brownie Bites instead — they taste indulgent but are 100% dog-safe and cocoa-free!
2. Onions (and Garlic too!)
Onions — whether raw, cooked, powdered, or fried — contain thiosulfates, which can damage your dog’s red blood cells and lead to anemia. Even small quantities over time can add up and cause weakness, lethargy, and digestive distress.
Zazu & Co’s Tip: Many savory human foods like gravies, soups, and sauces contain onion or garlic, so always check ingredient labels before sharing.
3. Dairy Products
A lick of ice cream or a splash of milk might seem harmless, but most adult dogs are lactose intolerant. Their systems simply can’t digest lactose efficiently, leading to bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
Zazu & Co’s Tip: If you want to treat your pup to something creamy, look for dairy-free frozen yogurts made specifically for dogs — or whip up a frozen banana-blueberry cube for a gut-friendly snack!
4. Fatty & Fried Foods
That leftover samosa, french fry, or bit of bacon might look irresistible to your dog, but these are a fast track to upset stomachs and pancreatitis. Greasy foods are heavy on the digestive system and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and long-term issues with weight and metabolism.
Zazu & Co’s Tip: Keep treats clean, simple, and naturally baked — your dog’s gut (and coat!) will thank you.
5. Grapes & Raisins
This one often surprises pet parents. Even small amounts of grapes or raisins can trigger acute kidney failure in some dogs. The exact toxin is still unknown, but the reaction can be severe — vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite can start within hours.
Zazu & Co’s Tip: Always check your trail mix or baked goodies before letting your pup sneak a bite. Safer fruity treats include blueberries, apples, or banana slices.
Your dog’s gut health is key to their overall wellbeing — from immunity to energy levels and even mood. Avoiding these harmful foods (and sticking to wholesome, natural treats made with no nasties) ensures your pup stays happy, healthy, and full of tail wags!
Try:
🫐 Blueberry Bliss – Antioxidant-rich, fruity, and gentle on tummies
🍫 Carob Brownie Bites – The guilt-free, dog-safe “chocolate” fix
Because at Zazu & Co, we believe that what’s good for their gut is great for their heart.
