Can Dogs Eat Bell Peppers? Yes

Why it’s safe

Bell peppers are non-toxic to dogs, and red, yellow, orange and green ones are all acceptable. Unlike chili peppers, they contain no capsaicin, the compound that makes peppers hot, so they will not burn your dog's mouth or stomach.

They are low in calories and bring fiber plus vitamins A, C, E and B6 and beta-carotene. According to the AKC, red peppers are the most nutrient-dense of the colors, with the most vitamins and antioxidants. Even so, a dog eating a balanced diet gets what it needs from its food, so the nutritional gain from a few pieces is modest. PetMD makes the same point.

The usual problems are practical. Seeds and stems can cause indigestion, the outer skin is hard going for some dogs, and too much can bring gas, bloating, vomiting or diarrhea. Peppers cooked for people often carry onions, garlic, salt or chili, all of which should stay out of your dog's bowl.

Benefits

Low in calories and a good source of fiber
Rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A
Also provides vitamins E and B6 and lutein
Crunchy and mild, so many dogs accept them readily

Risks

Seeds and stems can upset the stomach, so remove them
Large amounts can cause gas, bloating, vomiting or diarrhea
The tough outer skin is hard for some dogs to break down
Hot peppers such as jalapeños and chilies can irritate the stomach and should be avoided
Peppers cooked with onion, garlic, salt or spices are not safe

How to serve it safely

Rinse a plain bell pepper, remove the stem and seeds, and chop it into small pieces. Raw is fine. If your dog finds raw pepper hard going, steaming or pureeing makes it easier to digest. Offer it as a treat or sprinkle it over food, and introduce it gradually.

The AKC suggests less than a quarter of a pepper per serving for a small dog and less than half for a large dog. PetMD's weekly guide runs from a small piece or two for an extra-small dog up to about three-quarters of a pepper for a very large one. Keep treats under about 10% of daily calories.

Related forms

Food	Verdict	Why
Red, yellow, orange and green bell peppers	Yes	All are fine plain; red has the most vitamins and antioxidants.
Steamed or pureed bell pepper	Yes	Easier to digest for dogs that struggle with the raw skin.
Jalapeños, chilies and cayenne	With caution	Hot peppers can irritate the stomach; the AKC and PetMD advise avoiding them.
Peppers with onion or garlic	No	Onion and garlic are harmful to dogs, so skip dishes like fajitas.

If your dog already ate it

If your dog snatched a plain pepper, expect nothing worse than possible gas or a loose stool. Offer water and watch.

Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than about 24 hours, or if your dog seems lethargic or dehydrated. Hot peppers can irritate the stomach, so call your vet if your dog ate one and seems unwell. If the pepper came mixed with onion or garlic, call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (US; fees may apply). Do not make your dog vomit at home.

Frequently asked questions

Are red bell peppers better for dogs than green?

All colors are safe. The AKC notes that red peppers pack the most vitamins and antioxidants.

Can dogs eat bell pepper seeds?

It is best to remove them. The AKC advises taking out seeds and stems to prevent indigestion.

Can dogs eat raw bell pepper?

Yes. Raw is fine, though cooked, steamed or pureed pepper may be easier on some stomachs.

Can dogs eat spicy peppers?

Skip them. Hot peppers like jalapeños, chilies and cayenne contain capsaicin, which PetMD says can cause a painful burning feeling in the throat and stomach, and both the AKC and PetMD advise against feeding them.

Written from veterinary sources by the Pawsplained editorial team. Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian; this is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Updated Oct 30, 2026. Editorial policy

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