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Can Dogs Eat Pizza?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Is pizza safe for dogs?
Pizza is a baked dish of dough, tomato sauce and cheese, often topped with meat, vegetables or extra seasonings. A small plain bite is unlikely to harm most dogs, but pizza is high in fat and salt, and common toppings like onion, garlic and certain cheeses are not safe.
How to reduce the risks if you offer pizza
- If you offer any at all, use a small piece of plain crust with no toppings
- Skip the sauce and cheese, since both are often salty or seasoned
- Treat it as a rare exception, not a regular snack
What to avoid
- Toppings such as onion, garlic, pepperoni and extra cheese
- The grease and salt from a whole slice
- Pizza dough that has not been baked, which can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol
How much pizza can my dog have?
If you decide to offer pizza despite the cautions above, give just one tiny taste and check with your vet first, especially if your dog has any health condition. When in doubt, skip it.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat pizza?
Because pizza needs extra caution for adult dogs, it is best to avoid it for puppies.
What if my dog ate too much pizza?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
Should pizza be a regular part of my dog's diet?
No. We recommend not making pizza a regular part of your dog's diet.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Pizza?