Can dogs eat biscuits?

Caution — depends entirely on type

A plain biscuit crumb isn't toxic but biscuits are empty calories, and chocolate, raisin, or nut biscuits can be dangerous. Know what's in the biscuit.

The full picture

'Biscuits' covers a huge range of products — plain digestives, rich tea, and shortbread are non-toxic but nutritionally pointless and high in sugar. The dangerous ones are: chocolate biscuits (chocolate digestives, Hobnobs, bourbons), raisin biscuits (Garibaldi, fruit shortbread), nut biscuits (sometimes macadamia), and anything with xylitol (rare but check sugar-free ranges). A single plain digestive dropped on the floor isn't an emergency. A packet of chocolate digestives is. Always identify what type of biscuit before deciding the response.

Risks to watch for

  • Chocolate varieties are toxic
  • Raisin varieties are toxic
  • Xylitol in some sugar-free ranges
  • Empty calories, weight gain

Safe portion size

Not recommended. If sharing, a small plain biscuit (digestive, rich tea) occasionally.

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Safer alternatives

  • Dog biscuits from pet shops
  • Plain cooked chicken

Unexpected vet bills can run into thousands

One emergency visit for food poisoning can cost £500–£5,000+. Compare UK pet insurance in 60 seconds.

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Related foods

Chocolate no Raisins no Cake caution
Written and reviewed by
The Can My Dog Eat editorial team

Every food page is cross-checked against UK veterinary sources including the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the Animal PoisonLine, PDSA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual before publication. We do not accept paid placements from brands. If you spot an inaccuracy, please let us know — we take errors seriously and correct them quickly.

Spot an error? Report it

Checked against UK veterinary guidance — see our editorial standards and source list. If your dog has eaten something and you need urgent advice, call a vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000.

Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 in the UK.