Can dogs eat cake?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
High sugar and fat, and chocolate, raisin or xylitol cakes are toxic; use a dog-safe treat instead.
Why
Cake is sugary and fatty and best avoided; many cakes contain toxic ingredients.
Can dogs eat cake, and why?
Cake is sugary and fatty and best avoided; many cakes contain toxic ingredients. High sugar and fat, and chocolate, raisin or xylitol cakes are toxic; use a dog-safe treat instead.
Dogs are omnivores, so most of their diet should be a complete, balanced dog food, with treats on top. They cope with a wide range of foods, but rich, fatty or sugary ones can cause stomach upset and, over time, weight gain or pancreatitis.
Warning — what to watch for
High sugar and fat, and chocolate, raisin or xylitol cakes are toxic; use a dog-safe treat instead.
If your dog has eaten cake, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods dogs might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat cake?
Caution. Cake is sugary and fatty and best avoided; many cakes contain toxic ingredients.
What happens if my dog eats cake?
High sugar and fat, and chocolate, raisin or xylitol cakes are toxic; use a dog-safe treat instead. If your dog has eaten cake, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is cake poisonous to dogs?
Caution. Cake is sugary and fatty and best avoided; many cakes contain toxic ingredients.
Check cake for another pet