Can dogs eat olives?
✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last updated: 2026-06-17
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The full picture
Olives themselves — the flesh — aren't toxic to dogs. The problems are the salt, the pit, and the preparations they come in. Olive brine contains enormous amounts of sodium. Pits are choking and blockage hazards. Stuffed olives contain anchovies, garlic, blue cheese, or chilli depending on the type. Tapenade and olive spread are also salty and often contain garlic. Plain olive oil in tiny amounts is fine and sometimes used as a coat supplement — but not needed.
If your dog ate more than a safe amount
For a small accidental taste, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, or signs of discomfort over the next few hours. For a large amount or if your dog is small or has existing health conditions, call your vet. When in doubt, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
Risks to watch for
- High salt
- Pits are choking/blockage risk
- Stuffed versions often have toxic fillings
- Brine is dangerous
Safe portion size
A single pitted plain olive occasionally at most.
Does size or breed matter?
Risk with olives scales with the quantity relative to body weight, so small and toy breeds reach a meaningful dose from a much smaller amount than large dogs. Always check for hidden risk ingredients (garlic, onion, xylitol, excess salt) in any prepared or shop-bought version rather than assuming the plain ingredient name on the label tells the whole story.