The Complete Guide to Dogs Eating Olives: Toxic or Safe?

ByCanine Bible
can dogs eat olives

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Yes, dogs can eat olives in moderation, and this small, savory fruit can offer some nutritional benefits. However, before adding olives to your dog’s diet, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. While plain, unsalted, and pitted olives are generally safe, many olive preparations—such as marinated, stuffed, seasoned, or brined olives—may contain excess sodium, spices, garlic, or oils that can be harmful to dogs. Plus, what about olive pits and skins? Are green olives safer than black olives? Can too many olives cause digestive issues or contribute to weight gain?

Are Olives Good For Dogs?

Olives can be a safe and nutritious occasional treat for dogs when given in moderation.

  • Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and help reduce inflammation in the body.
  • Contains antioxidants like vitamin E, polyphenols, and oleic acid that help protect cells from oxidative damage.
  • Good source of plant-based nutrients, including iron, sodium, calcium, and copper, which contribute to metabolic function, healthy blood, and bone support.
  • They contain antioxidants and phytonutrients, which may help reduce oxidative stress and support long-term health.
  • Pack oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol, known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Always feed plain, unsalted, and pitted olives in small amounts. Avoid brined, stuffed, seasoned, or marinated olives, as they often contain salt, garlic, onions, spices, and oils that can be harmful to dogs. Never offer olive pits, as they pose a choking hazard and can damage teeth or cause digestive blockages.

Benefits

100 grams (3.5-ounce oz) of olives contain the following nutrients:

Olive Nutrition Chart (100g)

Nutrient Analysis

Component Description Nutritional Value (per 100g of Olives) Safe for Dogs?
Water Provides hydration but olives contain little moisture 74g ⚠️ Safe in small amounts
Calories Energy primarily from healthy fats 115 kcal ⚠️ Safe sparingly (high-calorie)
Carbohydrates Small amount, mostly fiber 6.3g ✅ Safe
Natural Sugars Very low compared to fruits 0g ✅ Safe
Fiber Supports digestion 3.2g ✅ Safe
Protein Small amount 0.8g ✅ Safe
Fat Main nutrient; contains healthy monounsaturated fats 10.7g ⚠️ Safe in moderation (high fat)
Vitamin E Powerful antioxidant that supports skin & coat 3.8mg ✅ Safe
Vitamin A Supports vision & immune health 20 IU ✅ Safe
Sodium Very high due to brining; can be harmful 735mg ❌ Unsafe (choose low-sodium only)
Calcium Supports bones & teeth 88mg ✅ Safe
Iron Supports oxygen transport 3.3mg ✅ Safe
Magnesium Supports muscles & nerves 4mg ✅ Safe
Potassium Important for nerve and heart function 8mg ⚠️ Safe in small amounts
Phosphorus Supports bone health 3mg ✅ Safe
Monounsaturated Fats (Oleic Acid) Heart-healthy fat beneficial in tiny amounts 7.9g ⚠️ Safe in moderation
Antioxidants Includes polyphenols that support cellular health Varies ✅ Safe
Pits Choking hazard and can damage teeth or cause blockages — ❌ Unsafe (remove pits)
Brine / Marinades Often contain spices, garlic, or high salt levels — ❌ Unsafe
Overconsumption Too many olives can cause GI upset or pancreatitis — ⚠️ Limit intake

Types of Olives Dogs Can & Can’t Eat

Type of Olive Can Dogs Eat It? Safety Notes
Plain Black Olives ✅ Yes Safe in moderation if unsalted and pitted.
Plain Green Olives ✅ Yes Offer only plain, unsalted, and pitted varieties.
Stuffed Olives (garlic, peppers, etc.) ❌ No Fillings like garlic or spicy peppers can be toxic or irritating.
Salted / Canned Olives ❌ No High sodium levels can cause dehydration or salt poisoning.
Marinated Olives ❌ No Often contain garlic, seasoning, oils, herbs, and spices unsafe for dogs.
Pitted Plain Olives ✅ Yes Best option—no pits and no added sodium.
Unpitted Whole Olives ⚠️ Not Recommended Pits pose choking, blockage, and tooth-damage risks.
Olives in Brine ❌ No Brine-soaked olives are far too salty for dogs.

Risks & Considerations Before Feeding Olives to Dogs

While olives can be a safe treat for dogs when given in moderation, there are several risks and considerations to keep in mind before feeding them to your canine companion:

  • Avoid pits and stuffed olives: Olive pits can chip teeth, cause choking, or lead to intestinal blockages. Stuffed olives may contain garlic, onions, cheese, or spices that are harmful to dogs.
  • High sodium content: Most jarred, canned, or brined olives contain large amounts of salt, which can lead to dehydration, high blood pressure, or sodium toxicity in dogs. Always choose plain, unsalted olives.
  • Seasoned or marinated olives are not safe: Olives mixed with oils, herbs, vinegar, chili flakes, or garlic should never be fed to dogs, as many seasonings are toxic or irritating to their digestive system.
  • Potential digestive issues: Some dogs may be sensitive to the fats in olives, and consuming too many can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach upset. Introduce them slowly and in very small amounts.
  • Risk of weight gain: Although olives contain healthy fats, too many can add unnecessary calories, which may contribute to obesity over time.

Are Dogs Allergic to Olive?

Most dogs are not allergic to olives, and it’s generally considered safe for canine consumption. However, some dogs may develop an allergic reaction, as with any food. Food allergies in dogs typically manifest as itchy skin, hives, infections, and anaphylaxis (a medical emergency) in severe cases. If you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction to any food, including olives, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian.

Additionally, conducting an at-home dog allergy test like the 5Strands can help determine if your dog is allergic or intolerant to certain foods. For a more comprehensive approach, consider an at-home dog gut health test, like the Embark Gut Health Test, which can provide deeper insights into your dog’s digestive health and immune function. These tests can identify food sensitivities, bacterial imbalances, and other underlying issues contributing to allergies, helping you take proactive steps to prevent discomfort and support your dog’s overall well-being.

Risks

The following symptoms may indicate a bad reaction to olive oil.

  • Discomfort and bloating
  • Gas
  • Upset stomach
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy

What to Do If A Dog Reacts Badly to Olives

Dogs showing worsening symptoms, such as blood in their vomit or stool, difficulty breathing, weakness, or collapse, should be taken to the veterinarian immediately.

1. Contact a veterinarian immediately: Even if your dog seems fine, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison hotline right away. This includes services such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-764-7661. If you can’t reach your vet, you can chat live with a registered online veterinary professional via our online vet chat or video chat support (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). You can also schedule an at-home veterinary appointment with The Vets, a mobile veterinary service that provides at-home vet care nationwide for just about everything.

2. Gather important information: When speaking to a vet, provide: Quantity consumed (estimate if unsure), time of ingestion, and the dog’s weight and breed (to assess potential risk).

3. Follow veterinary instructions: The vet may suggest monitoring at home or emergency treatment at the clinic.

  • Keep your dog calm and prevent them from eating anything else.
  • Be prepared to transport your dog to the vet quickly if advised.
  • Bring any remaining olive or packaging to help the vet assess the situation.

How to Safely Feed Olives to Dogs

When feeding olives to your dog, it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines to keep them safe:

  • Remove the pits
  • Serve in moderation
  • Start with small amounts
  • Avoid brined, canned, or marinated olives
  • Cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Monitor for any reactions

Ways to Feed Olives to Dogs

  • As a snack: Offer a plain, unsalted, pitted olive as an occasional treat.
  • Meal topper: Chop 1–2 plain olives and sprinkle lightly over your dog’s food for added flavor and healthy fats.
  • Olive tapenade alternative: Make a simple, dog-safe version by blending plain, pitted olives with a bit of water—no garlic, onion, or salt—and mix in a teaspoon to their meal.
  • Mashed olive mix-in: Lightly mash a pitted olive and combine it with your dog’s regular food for a savory boost.
  • Olive oil drizzle: Instead of whole olives, a few drops of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil can provide similar nutrients with a lower sodium risk.
  • Dehydrated olive pieces (unsalted): If you dehydrate plain, pitted olives at home with no salt or seasonings, you can offer small pieces as a chewy treat in strict moderation.

As with any new food, starting slowly and feeding gradually is recommended to give the digestive system time to adjust. 

How Much Olive Can Dogs Eat?

Treats should only constitute 10% of your dog’s diet, with the remaining 90% coming from well-balanced dog food. This guideline also applies to healthy treats like olives. Below are general guidelines for safely portioning olive oil based on your dog’s weight.

Dog SizeServing SizeBreed Examples
Extra-small (2-15 lbs.)½–1 plain, pitted olive (sliced)Shih Tzu, Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Maltese
Small (16-25 lbs.)1–2 plain, pitted olives (sliced)Boston Terriers, Beagles, Dachshund
Medium (26-60 lbs.)2–3 plain, pitted olivesBulldogs, Basset Hounds, Border Collies
Large (61-90 lbs.)3–4 plain, pitted olivesGolden Retrievers, Pit Bulls, Boxers, Labrador Retrievers
Extra-large (91+ lbs.)4–5 plain, pitted olivesBullmastiffs, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Great Pyrenees

Can Puppies Eat Olives?

Yes, puppies can eat olives, but only in very small amounts and only when they are plain, unsalted, and pitted. Since puppies have more sensitive digestive systems, it’s best to start with just a tiny portion—such as ¼ to ½ of a plain, pitted olive, finely chopped—to see how they react. Feeding too many olives at once can lead to digestive upset, as puppies’ stomachs are still developing and may struggle to process the fruit’s fats and naturally occurring sodium. Additionally, only offer plain olives—never brined, canned, marinated, or stuffed varieties, as these often contain salt, garlic, oil, or seasonings that are harmful to dogs. When introducing olives or any new food, avoid giving multiple new foods on the same day so you can easily monitor for food sensitivities or allergies. If your puppy experiences digestive issues, introducing only one new food at a time makes it easier to identify the cause. Try offering a tiny amount of plain, chopped, pitted olives, then wait a few days to observe how your puppy’s digestive system reacts before considering offering more. Always remove the pit, as it can pose a choking hazard, damage teeth, or cause intestinal blockage.

Alternatives

Here’s a list of alternatives to olives that are just as safe and nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, dogs can eat olive oil in small amounts, and it can even offer benefits such as improved skin and coat health and better digestion. Extra virgin olive oil is the best option because it contains antioxidants and healthy fats. However, too much oil can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or weight gain due to its high-calorie content. Start with only a few drops mixed into food and monitor your dog for any digestive issues.

No, dogs should never eat olive pits. The pits are hard and can easily crack a dog’s teeth, cause choking, or lead to intestinal obstruction if swallowed. Even if a pit passes through the system, it can irritate the digestive tract and create complications. Always remove the pit before offering olives to your dog to ensure their safety.

No, Olive Garden breadsticks are not recommended for dogs. They contain garlic powder, high sodium levels, butter, seasonings, and refined flour—ingredients that can harm a dog’s stomach or be toxic in larger amounts. While a tiny accidental bite may not cause severe issues, regularly feeding breadsticks is unsafe. Stick to plain, unseasoned bread if you want to offer a small treat.

Most bread served at Olive Garden is seasoned with garlic, herbs, salt, and oils, which are not safe for dogs. Garlic is particularly dangerous, even in small amounts, and can lead to anemia. The added butter and salt can also upset your dog’s stomach or contribute to long-term issues. It’s better to avoid restaurant bread entirely and, if necessary, offer only small amounts of plain, unseasoned bread at home.

No, dogs should not eat olive hummus. Most hummus contains garlic, lemon juice, salt, and seasonings that are harmful or irritating to dogs. Even small amounts of garlic can be toxic, and the acidity of lemon may cause stomach issues. If you want a dog-friendly dip, mash a plain, pitted olive with unsalted chickpeas as a safe alternative.

Yes, dogs can eat green olives as long as they are plain, unsalted, and fully pitted. Green olives are slightly firmer and often saltier than black olives, especially when packaged in brine. Because of this, they must be rinsed and offered in very small amounts. Avoid any green olives that are stuffed, seasoned, or marinated.

Dogs can eat olives safely when they are plain, unsalted, pitted, and given in moderation. The healthy fats and antioxidants in olives can complement a dog’s diet, but too many can lead to stomach upset or weight gain. Always avoid olives stored in brine, oil, or seasonings, as these additives can be harmful. Introduce them slowly and monitor your dog for any digestive changes.

Yes, black olives are generally safe for dogs when served plain, pitted, and unsalted. They tend to be milder and less salty than green olives, making them a better choice for canine digestion. However, the serving size should remain small due to its fat content. Avoid canned or brined black olives unless thoroughly rinsed to remove excess sodium.

Dogs should not eat olive leaves directly, as the raw leaf can be difficult to digest and may cause stomach upset. However, olive leaf extract is sometimes used in supplements for antibacterial and antioxidant benefits—but only under veterinary guidance. Feeding raw leaves or allowing a dog to chew on olive branches is not recommended. Stick to dog-safe forms approved by your vet.

Yes, dogs can eat ripe olives (typically black olives) as long as they are plain, unsalted, and pitted. Ripe olives are softer and often easier for dogs to digest compared to unripe green olives. However, like all olives, they should be fed sparingly because of their natural fat content. Avoid any ripe olives packed in brine, oil, or seasonings.

The Bottom Line

Olives can be a safe and occasional treat for dogs when prepared properly and served in small portions. Sticking to plain, unsalted, and fully pitted olives helps avoid the risks associated with brined, stuffed, or seasoned varieties. While olives offer healthy fats and antioxidants, they should never replace a balanced diet or be fed in excess. As with any new food, introduce olives slowly and monitor your dog for any digestive changes. When offered responsibly, olives can add a flavorful and nutritious boost to your dog’s treat rotation.

Whether you’re introducing olive or any new treat, unexpected reactions can happen. Having the right pet insurance ensures you can handle any vet visits with peace of mind. Check out our guide to the best pet insurance plans to keep your furry friend covered in every situation. If you’re looking for other healthy snack options, check out the best dog treats to find safe and nutritious alternatives. And if you’re seeking something more therapeutic to support anxiety, pain, inflammation, or other health concerns, explore the benefits of CBD oil for dogs and CBD dog treats for a natural way to help your pup feel their best.

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