Can dogs eat pasta?
Yes, in moderation Yes, a small amount of plain cooked pasta. Keep the sauce away: many contain garlic and onion.
Why
RSPCA Australia lists a small amount of plain cooked pasta or rice as fine for dogs and puppies. The risk is the sauce: tomato and pasta sauces usually contain garlic and onion (AKC).
How to give it safely
Plain, cooked, no sauce, cheese, butter or salt, in small amounts.
This is general guidance, your vet sets the actual schedule. Puppies, small dogs and dogs with a health condition can react to smaller amounts. Check with your own vet before changing what your dog eats.
Other foods people ask about
Bread Only with care
Fruit cake and Christmas pudding No, toxic
Oatmeal and porridge Yes, in moderation
Quinoa Yes, in moderation
Raw bread dough No, toxic
Rice Yes, in moderation
Next
Sources
- RSPCA Australia, What should I feed my dog?: https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/what-should-i-feed-my-dog
- RSPCA Australia, What should I feed my puppy?: https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/puppies/what-should-i-feed-my-puppy
- AKC, Can dogs eat tomatoes?: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-tomatoes/
Last reviewed 2026-09-29.