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Can dogs eat olives?

A little plain, pitted olive flesh is usually not an emergency for dogs, but olives are not an ideal treat. Brined olives are salty, and pits can choke or obstruct.

Not medical advice — general pet-safety info only. Confirm with your vet before changing your dog’s diet.

Updated Jul 31, 2026 Category Nutrition

Alternatives to olives for dogs

A low-sodium dog treat is a safer snack than a brined olive.

Low-sodium dog treats

Replace brined snacks with rewards designed to keep sodium lower.

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Low-calorie dog treats

Use a light dog treat instead of a salty olive.

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Dental dog treats

Choose a dog-specific chew rather than a slippery, pitted snack.

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How much is okay?

If sharing any, use one small piece of plain, pitted, unsalted olive flesh.

Small under 20 lb
A small piece
Pit removed.
Medium 20–50 lb
1 small olive
Rarely.
Large 50+ lb
1–2 small olives
Plain and pitted only.

Rule of thumb: treats of all kinds should stay under ~10% of daily calories.

How to prepare them

  • Remove pits and rinse plain olives to reduce surface brine.
  • Never offer brine, stuffed olives, tapenade, or seasoned olives.

Risks & exceptions

  • Pits can choke or obstruct.
  • Brine and fillings can add salt, garlic, onion, or spices.

The safe-ish version is plain pitted olive flesh only; pits and salty brine are the bigger hazards.

If they ate too many

A small plain piece may cause no signs; salty or pitted olives require more caution.

  • Thirst
  • Vomiting

Call your vet / pet poison line if:

  • Pit swallowed
  • Brine consumed
  • Garlic or onion in the ingredients

FAQ

Can dogs eat black olives?

A plain pitted black olive is limited, but brined products are still salty.

Can dogs eat olive pits?

No. Pits are a choking and obstruction risk.

Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from product links. Safety guidance is editorial and may change — verify with your veterinarian for your dog.