Can dogs eat olives?
CAUTION Category: Fruit · Reviewed September 2026
Plain, unsalted, pitted olives are safe for dogs in small amounts. The risks are the pit (choking and tooth damage), the sodium in brined olives, and stuffed or flavored varieties with garlic or blue cheese. If your dog snags an olive, remove the pit from reach and keep the martini garnishes off low tables.
Symptoms to watch for
- sodium overload with many olives
- choking on pits
If you suspect poisoning: call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (available 24/7). Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
Quick answers
Can dogs eat olives?
Only with precautions. Plain, unsalted, pitted olives are safe for dogs in small amounts. The risks are the pit (choking and tooth damage), the sodium in brined olives, and stuffed or flavored varieties with garlic or blue cheese. If your dog snags an olive, remove the pit from reach and keep the martini garnishes off low tables.
What are the symptoms if my dog eats olives?
Watch for sodium overload with many olives, choking on pits. Symptoms may appear within hours; when in doubt, call your vet.
What should I do if my dog ate olives?
Assess how much was eaten and whether seeds, pits, shells or seasoning were included. Small plain amounts usually need monitoring only; large or seasoned amounts warrant a call to your vet.
Related foods
Can dogs eat grapes? · Can dogs eat avocado? · Can dogs eat cherries? · Can dogs eat lemons & limes? · Can dogs eat plums? · Can dogs eat peaches?
Source: AKC Can Dogs Eat series. This page is informational and is not veterinary advice.