Ingredient families

Fruits and Fillings

Many plain fruits make great low-calorie treats. Grapes, raisins and pits don't. Here's how to tell.

Never: grapes and raisins

Grapes, raisins, Zante currants and sultanas can cause kidney failure in dogs, and no safe amount is known (Merck).

Remove first: seeds, pits and peels

  • Apple seeds, stems and core contain cyanogenic glycosides (ASPCA).
  • Cherry pits, stems and leaves contain cyanide compounds, and whole pits can block the gut (Pet Poison Helpline).
  • Citrus peels and seeds contain irritating oils (ASPCA).

Good choices

UC Davis and Tufts list plain fruits and vegetables as good low-calorie treats for many dogs, including blueberries, strawberries, apple (without seeds), banana and carrots.

Fillings

Pie fillings, jams and jellies are mostly sugar. Grape jelly is made from grapes, and sugar-free versions may contain xylitol (FDA). Plain pumpkin and pumpkin pie filling look alike on the shelf. Read the can.

Keep exploring

Sources

  1. Grape, Raisin, and Tamarind Toxicosis in Dogs, Merck Veterinary Manual. Checked October 22, 2026.
  2. Apple (toxic and non-toxic plants), ASPCA. Checked October 22, 2026.
  3. Cherry, Pet Poison Helpline. Checked October 22, 2026.
  4. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets, ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Checked October 22, 2026.
  5. Treat Guidelines for Dogs, UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Nutrition Support Service. Checked October 22, 2026.
  6. Does an Apple a Day Keep the Vet Away? Harmful vs Healthy Foods for Pets, Tufts Petfoodology (Cummings School). Checked October 22, 2026.
  7. Paws Off Xylitol; It's Dangerous for Dogs, U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Checked October 22, 2026.

Last checked against these sources: October 22, 2026.

Written by VanillaGoods from the cited sources. Not reviewed by a veterinarian. Not a substitute for veterinary advice.