Can dogs eat it?
Can dogs eat cookies?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Human cookies and biscuits are not meant for dogs. Plain varieties such as a digestive or a simple sugar cookie are not toxic, and a crumb will not hurt, but they are high in sugar and fat. Many popular cookies contain chocolate, raisins, macadamia nuts, or xylitol, all of which can be dangerous. Stick to treats made for dogs.
The dangerous ingredients
Chocolate chip cookies contain theobromine and caffeine, and dark chocolate chunks are more dangerous than milk chocolate. Oatmeal raisin cookies contain raisins, which can cause kidney damage. White chocolate macadamia cookies contain macadamia nuts, which can cause weakness and tremors.
Sugar-free and keto cookies may be sweetened with xylitol, which can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and liver damage.
Plain biscuits in moderation
A plain digestive biscuit has around 70 calories, similar to a quarter of a small dog's daily treat allowance. Shortbread and butter cookies are richer. A broken piece dropped on the floor is not a concern, but they should not be regular treats.
Spiced biscuits such as gingerbread may contain nutmeg, which is only a concern in large amounts.
If your dog ate a packet
Keep the packet so you can read the ingredients and note how many are missing. For chocolate cookies, your vet will want the type of chocolate and your dog's weight. For raisin or xylitol cookies, call your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately, even if your dog seems fine.
Do not try to make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Dog biscuits and homemade treats
Dog biscuits are formulated without toxic ingredients and are designed to be part of a balanced diet. You can also bake simple treats from oat flour, egg, and plain pumpkin puree. Keep homemade treats small and count them within the daily treat allowance.
Key takeaways
- Plain cookies are not toxic but are sugary and fatty.
- Chocolate, raisin, macadamia, and xylitol cookies are dangerous.
- Keep the packet so your vet can check the ingredients.
- Dog biscuits are a better choice.