✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last reviewed: 2026-07
Can dogs eat crackers?
The full picture
Plain water biscuits, cream crackers, or rice cakes in tiny amounts are non-toxic but offer nothing nutritionally. The problems are with flavoured crackers: cheese crackers often contain onion powder, Ritz crackers are very salty, Bath Olivers and similar savoury crackers can have seasonings, and any cracker with herbs or garlic flavour should be skipped entirely. If sharing cheese with a dog (small amounts), skip the cracker.
If your dog ate more than a safe amount
Plain crackers in small amounts are safe. Salted crackers carry salt load risk. Crackers with onion, garlic, or seasoning can cause GI upset.
Risks to watch for
- Salt content
- Onion/garlic in flavoured varieties
- Empty calories
Safe portion size
A small piece of plain unsalted cracker occasionally.
Safer alternatives
- Plain rice cakes
- Carrot sticks
Want to check the E-numbers and additives in this food? Our food ingredient checker covers allergens, vegan status, and clean-label information.
And while you're thinking about what's good for your dog, keeping on top of flea and parasite prevention is just as important as diet.