As a Pug owner, you probably share your favorite foods with your pet. But if you’re not careful, your pup could eat something that could harm her.
Pugs have a different metabolic system than humans do. That means that what’s safe for us may not be safe for our pets—and vice versa.
That’s why we created this list of 37 common fruits, vegetables and snacks Pugs can or cannot eat.
List of fruits Pugs can or can’t eat
Wondering which fruits your Pug can eat or not? Here is a list of some common fruits your Pug can or can’t eat:
Apples
Yes, Pugs can eat apples.
Apples are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber for your Pug. They’re low in protein and fat, making them the perfect snack for senior Pugs. Remove the seeds and core first, but don’t worry about the skin—your Pug will digest it just fine.
Avoid processed apples like applesauce and apple pie filling, which contain added sugar.
Avocado
Avocado is definitely not safe for your Pug to consume. Avocados contain persin, a toxin that can be harmful to your Pug if they consume it. We find the toxic ingredient in the fruit, pits, leaves, skin and the actual plant. There have been reports of Pugs having vomiting and diarrhea after consuming avocados.
Additionally, avocado oil is safe in small amounts. However, avocado oil has been reported to cause gastrointestinal distress in some Pugs who have consumed it in large amounts. It is important that you consult with your veterinarian before giving your pet any new food or treat.
Bananas
Yes, Pugs can eat bananas. Bananas are high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber and copper. They are also low in cholesterol and sodium. But they have a high sugar content, so we should give bananas as an occasional treat. And remember to remove the peel before giving your Pug an entire banana—it’s a bit too fibrous to digest well on its own.
Blackberry
Yes, Pugs can eat blackberries. Blackberries are low in calories and sugar and high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, making them a healthy snack for your Pug.
Fresh or frozen blackberries are fine. Avoid processed blackberries like blackberry jam, jelly, blackberry-flavored ice cream, as they may contain harmful chemicals from processing. You should only feed 2 blackberries per 10 pounds of body weight per day.
Blueberry
Can Pugs eat blueberries? The short answer is yes. Blueberries are very healthy for Pugs and offer a significant number of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, like any fruit, they should be fed in moderation.
Blueberries are high in sugar, so feed them in moderation (4-5 blueberries per 10 pounds of body weight). You can feed your Pug blueberries fresh or frozen—either is fine most pups.
The only exception to this rule is if you buy processed blueberries like blueberry muffins, blueberry yogurt, blueberry pie, or blueberry pancakes at the store—these may contain added harmful ingredients, so we recommend avoiding them altogether.
Cantaloupe
Yes, you can let your Pug eat cantaloupe. However, it should be given in moderation.
Cantaloupe has a relatively low amount of calories and high levels of nutrients. It contains fiber and moisture, which are both good for Pugs’ digestion and health. It also contains sugar, but in small amounts that can be consumed without harm to your Pug’s health.
However, remove the rinds and seeds before giving your Pug cantaloupe. The rinds can present a choking hazard, and the seeds could cause intestinal blockage if ingested whole by Pugs.
Cherry
No, Pugs can’t eat cherries. Although the fleshy part around the seed is safe, the plant contains cyanide, which destroys cellular oxygen transport in your Pug. The symptoms of cyanide toxicity include dilated pupils, increased heart rate and blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and seizures. Contact your vet if your Pug ate cherry.
Grapes
Grapes are very toxic to Pugs, even in small amounts. They can cause sudden kidney failure, as well as vomiting and diarrhea.
If you suspect your Pug ate grapes, seek veterinary help immediately. If you notice symptoms of grape poisoning—vomiting or diarrhea, lethargy or weakness, loss of appetite—take your Pug to your vet right away.
Mango
Yes, Pugs can eat mango.
Mangos contain four different vitamins: A, B6, C and E that are essential for maintaining a healthy Pug’s skin and coat and for their digestive system. Mangos also have potassium, fiber and antioxidants which help with digestion and immune system function.
Remove mango skin, pits to prevent choking in your Pug. Also remove the seeds if they’re large enough to cause obstruction by removing them with a spoon or knife before feeding them to your Pug.
Avoid processed mango products like mango sorbet, mango popsicles, mango ice cream as they may contain harmful ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup or artificial coloring agents that can upset your Pug’s stomach if consumed regularly.
The amount depends on the size of your Pug but one-quarter cup of fresh ripe mango once a week should be fine for your Pug.
Oranges
Yes, Pugs can eat oranges in moderation. Oranges provide Vitamin C, potassium, fiber and moisture.
Give only the fleshy part to your Pug. Remove all traces of peel, skin, pith and seeds. 1-2 sections as an occasional treat are enough for most Pugs.
Peaches
Peaches are a healthy fruit for Pugs and can be served to your Pug in small amounts.
However, remove the pit before serving it to your Pug as it contains cyanide. Also, avoid processed peaches like peach cobbler or peach pie, as they may contain harmful chemicals.
Pears
Can Pugs eat pears? Absolutely!
It’s good for them.
Pears are a great snack because they’re high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. These nutrients help keep your Pug’s bones, skin, muscles, and heart healthy. They also reduce the risk of having a stroke significantly. Just be sure to cut pears into bite-size chunks and remove the pit and seeds first, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide.
Skip processed pears like canned pears as it may contain sugar syrups and other additives that your Pug doesn’t need. One small slice is ok for most Pugs as pears contain sugar.
Pineapples
Yes, Pugs can eat pineapple—it’s a tasty snack for them!
Pineapple contains vitamins, minerals, and bromelain, which is a digestive enzyme. It also helps provide moisture to your Pug’s coat.
Make sure you give your Pug only the soft inner fruit of the pineapple. You should avoid giving him or her any of the spiky skin or hard inner core, because these parts are toxic to Pugs.
2/3 small bites of raw pineapple are enough for your Pug.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a great choice for your Pug’s healthy snack. Not only does it taste good, but it also has some health benefits for your Pug.
Pumpkins can help with your Pug’s skin and coat. It will make their fur shiny and soft and help reduce any itching or dry skin that they might have. It can also relieve constipation in Pugs.
If you are looking for a natural remedy for diarrhea in Pugs, pumpkin is another great option as well. It helps to add bulk to their stool and makes it easier for them to pass through the intestines without causing further irritation or discomfort.
Never feed your Pug pumpkin pie mix—it can be harmful if eaten on its own by humans or Pugs alike! Canned pumpkin is okay if you want to give it to your Pug as a treat—just make sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin (no additives).
Strawberry
Yes, Pugs can eat strawberries.
Strawberries are a delicious and nutritious treat for Pugs. They contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants—all of which help to keep your Pug’s body healthy and strong. Fresh or frozen strawberries have the same benefits, so you don’t have to worry about how you serve them up!
But always cut the strawberries in small pieces before serving them to your Pug. Pugs have sensitive teeth that can easily get damaged by hard foods like Un-Cut strawberries. If you want to avoid cutting up your Pug’s treats every time they eat them, try freezing the whole strawberry instead of chopping it up (this will also make it easier for your Pug to chew).
You should also remove the stem from the strawberry before giving it to your Pug because this part isn’t digestible. It can also cause problems if swallowed whole.
Finally, try not to give your Pug processed strawberries—these aren’t as healthy for him as fresh ones because they contain more sugar than their fresh counterparts.
Watermelon
Yes! Pugs can eat watermelon, but you should never feed them the rind, seeds and skin. Only the flesh of a watermelon is safe and nutritious for your Pug. Cut it into small chunks and remove the seeds, rinds and skin before feeding it to your Pug. Half a cup of diced seedless and rind-free watermelon is enough per 10 pounds of body weight.
List of vegetable Pugs can or can’t eat
Wondering which vegetables your Pug can eat or not? Here is a list of some vegetables your Pug can or can’t eat:
Broccoli
Yes, Pugs can eat broccoli. Broccoli contains vitamin K, which is good for your pup’s blood clotting factors, as well as vitamins C and A.
Broccoli stems and florets, both are safe to eat, either cooked or raw. However, always cut them into small pieces because they could be a choking hazard for your pup!
Offer 1/4 (0.25) cup of broccoli per 10 pounds of body weight of a pup each day.
Cabbage
Yes, Pugs can eat cabbage. Cabbage is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s also rich in fiber and moisture, which are great for Pugs with sensitive stomachs.
Pugs can eat all colors of cabbage, including red cabbage! Red cabbage is more nutritious than green cabbage—it contains 10 times more vitamins than green cabbage.
It’s best to cook your Pug’s cabbage lightly or roast it so it’s easy for them to digest. You don’t want to add any seasoning or oil to their cabbage because those can cause diarrhea in Pugs.
You should offer your Pug about one bite of roasted or lightly cooked cabbage per 10 pounds of body weight each day.
Carrots
Yes, carrots are a great treat for Pugs.
Carrots contain vitamins, minerals, fiber and crunching on this orange veggie is great for your Pug’s teeth.
Raw, frozen, or cooked carrots are all fine. Cooked carrots are better since they’re easier to digest. Chop raw or frozen carrots into smaller pieces to avoid choking hazards.
If you’re giving your Pug carrot cake, make sure it doesn’t have any harmful additives in it that could harm your pup. A single or two baby carrot is enough for an average sized pup.
Celery
Pugs can eat celery, but as you’ll see in this article, it’s important to know how and when to feed your Pug this vegetable.
Celery is a great low-calorie treat for Pugs. It contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and plenty of moisture and fiber. It’s also a great way to add variety to your Pug’s diet! You can top it with small peanut butter or mix it with their regular food. You can even pair up celery sticks with other treats like carrots or green beans.
However, because of its high water content, celery can cause digestive distress if your Pug eats too much of it at once. That’s why we always recommend that you cut the celery into bite-sized pieces before giving it to your Pug—and start with one or two bite-sized pieces at first.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are safe for your Pug to eat, and they’re good for them.
Cucumbers are filled with vitamins and minerals, like vitamin A and potassium. They also contain moisture and fiber, which can help keep your Pug’s digestive system healthy. When you feed your Pug cucumbers, you’re also giving them phytochemicals that will freshen their breath—so if your pup has stinky breath, this is a great option for you!
Cucumber seed and peels or skin are safe as long as they are organic. Processed cucumbers like cucumber pickles may contain harmful food additives like salt, sugar or even worse things like artificial coloring or preservatives. So choose wisely when buying pre-cut cukes at the store.
It’s best to feed your Pug one or two pieces of cucumber per day (depending on the size of your pup). You want to make sure it’s a small enough amount that they won’t get sick from eating too much fiber all at once—but big enough so that there’s plenty of nutrients left over for them to enjoy.
Garlic
Garlic is toxic to Pugs.
It contains N-propyl disulfide, a sulfur compound that causes hemolysis leading to anemia and other symptoms. Raw and cooked garlic cloves or bulbs are toxic to your Pug. A toxic dose of garlic is 15 to 30 grams per kilogram of body weight.
Contact your vet immediately if you think your Pug has eaten garlic.
Onions
Can a Pug eat onions? The answer is a resounding no.
Onions contain a sulfur compound called N-propyl disulfide, which can cause hemolysis and anemia in Pugs. The toxic dose of this compound is 15 gm/kg of the body weight of your Pug.
Besides, all parts of the onion plant are toxic to Pugs too, including the flesh, ring, leaves, juice, and processed powders. If your Pug ate onions, contact your vet right away.
Zucchini
Yes, Pugs can eat zucchini. Zucchini is a low-calorie treat that’s full of vitamins and antioxidants and also high in fiber and moisture. Plain raw, steamed, or cooked zucchini is safe for Pugs to eat. However, raw zucchini provides more Vitamin A than cooked ones. The amount depends on the size of your Pug, but start with just one or two small bites.
List of some other snacks Pugs can or can’t eat
Wondering which snacks your Pug can eat or not? Here is a list of some snacks your Pug can or can’t eat:
Bacon
The short answer is no.
Bacon is an incredibly rich and fatty food with a high salt content. While the occasional small piece of cooked bacon should not harm your Pug’s stomach, it can prove to be too much for a Pug’s stomach to handle if they eat large amounts of it.
This is because bacon has a high fat content, which can lead to pancreatitis in Pugs. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea in Pugs. If left untreated, it can be fatal for Pugs.
If you do give your Pug small amounts of cooked bacon infrequently, make sure you monitor closely for any signs of illness such as vomiting or diarrhea so you can take them to the vet if necessary.
Beef
Yes, Pugs can eat beef.
Your Pug would probably love it if you gave them some cooked, unseasoned lean beef. It’s a source of protein and many important vitamins and minerals—and it’ll even keep them from getting bored with their regular food. Some Pugs can be allergic to beef, but most aren’t.
You should never feed your Pug raw meat, though! However, large raw bones can be a great chew toy but cooked bones are dangerous for your pooch because they splinter into sharp shards when chewed on by a Pug.
For a 20-pound pooch, one cup of kibble or 0.3 pounds of ground beef is ok if you choose a raw diet—but make sure it’s not too fatty.
Bread
Yes, Pugs can eat bread. However, ensure they are not allergic to it first.
Bread doesn’t really provide much in the way of nutrients for your Pug, so it should be used in moderation. If you give them too much bread, they could become constipated or develop other health problems.
Cheese
Yes, Pugs can eat cheese.
A small amount of cheese is ok for the Pug, but be careful of what types of cheese you are feeding to your Pugs. Mozzarella, cottage, swiss and cheddar cheese are safer. Stay away from spicy cheese like cheesecake, blue, goat, parmesan and cream cheese.
Amount depends on the size of your Pug, however, a few small bites are fine.
Chicken
Yes, Pugs can eat chicken. Chicken contains protein, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Boneless cooked breast meat is the best option because it has less fat than other parts of the bird. Chicken skin contains a high amount of fat that can cause pancreatitis in Pugs, so avoid feeding your Pug this part.
Depending on the size of your Pug, give them 1/8 to 1/6 cup of meat protein per 10 pounds of body weight per day if they are on a raw meat diet.
Chocolate
Chocolate is a delicious treat that people can enjoy, but not Pugs. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to pups.
If your Pug ate chocolate, contact your vet immediately. To prevent accidental ingestion of chocolate by your pup, educate your family about the danger of chocolate in Pugs so they can keep it out of reach.
Eggs
Yes, your Pug can eat eggs.
Eggs are a great source of protein, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. They’re also relatively inexpensive and easy to find.
As long as you cook them well and avoid adding any seasoning or harmful ingredients (like raw egg whites), eggs are a great addition to your Pug’s diet.
Eggshells are fine too but make sure you grind it up or crush it into small pieces before feeding it to your Pug.
Fish
Yes, Pugs can eat fish. Fish is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. But not all fish are safe for your Pug.
Smaller, younger, wild-caught, shorter-lived species like salmon, shrimp, tilapia are safe for your Pug. Avoid longer-lived fish species like tuna, shark and swordfish as they can contain heavy metals like mercury. Always clean them properly—debone them before cooking—then cook it adding no harmful additives. Feeding your Pug one or two times per week in small controlled amounts is also safe.
Icecream
Can Pugs eat ice cream?
No, the Pug shouldn’t eat ice cream. Ice cream contains a high amount of dairy products and sugar. These ingredients are harmful to your Pug’s health and can cause severe side effects.
Symptoms of ice cream toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, lethargy, seizures and even coma. If you suspect your Pug accidentally ate ice cream, seek veterinary help immediately.
Peanut butter
Yes, Pugs can eat peanut butter. In moderation.
Peanut butter provides protein, vitamins and healthy fats—all of which your Pug needs to stay healthy and strong. It’s important to remember that peanut butter is high in fat, so it’s not something you want to feed your Pug daily. It should be used as a treat or special food in small amounts.
As long as your Pug doesn’t have any allergies to peanuts, peanut butter is a great way to get them some extra nutrients without having to buy a bunch of supplements or expensive treats. Feeding peanut butter can also help keep their breath fresh!
Make sure the peanut butter you choose for your pup has no xylitol or chocolate (or other harmful ingredients) in it—that will make it dangerous for your pooch! You also need to avoid those big tubs of peanut butter pretzels, as they contain three times more sodium than regular peanut butter does!
The amount depends on the size of your Pug—but start with a half teaspoon per day if you’re unsure about how much they need at first.
Popcorn
Can Pugs eat popcorn?
Well, they can. But it’s not without its risks.
Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for Pugs to eat in small quantities as an occasional treat. Popped corn kernels actually contain several minerals important to Pugs, like magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and zinc, along with fiber and trace amounts of vitamins.
However, avoid processed popcorn. Buttered popcorn or popcorn with other toppings like chocolate are not safe for your Pug. Also, un-popped or partially popped kernels can be a choking hazard and may even cause damage to your Pug’s teeth.
Turkey
Pugs can eat turkey, but only if it’s cooked and lean.
Turkey is a good source of protein for your Pug, as well as other nutrients like iron and fatty acids. Turkey breast meat is the best option because it’s low in fat and calories, so you don’t have to worry about your Pug getting too many calories or gaining weight from eating turkey. However, turkey skin can cause gastrointestinal upset in Pugs, so avoid giving your Pug any skin.
You can feed them 20 grams of white meat turkey or 15 grams of dark meat turkey per 12 pounds body weight daily, if you opt for a raw diet.
Yogurt
Yes, Pugs can eat yogurt. Plain yogurt is a perfectly acceptable snack for Pugs—and it’s actually good for them!
Pugs are omnivores, which means they can digest both meat and plants. And while Pugs do not have the same types of digestive systems as humans, they do have similar organs that break down food into nutrients. So if your Pug can digest it, the beneficial bacteria in yogurt can help strengthen the digestive system.
However, some Pugs may have trouble digesting dairy products because their bodies don’t produce enough lactase enzymes to break down lactose efficiently. So we recommend plain yogurt instead of flavored varieties or ones with added sugar or artificial sweeteners. If your Pug doesn’t have issues with dairy products, one teaspoon of plain yogurt a day is fine for most pups.
Conclusion
There you have it, a list of 37 common fruits, vegetables and snacks Pugs can or cannot eat.
Stay away from the unsafe ones and feed safe ones only to your Pug. However, with any safe food follow the 90/10 rule: 90% calories should come from their normal food, only 10% from the treats like these.