As a loving dog owner, you’re constantly seeking ways to enhance your furry friend’s health and happiness. One of the most impactful ways to do this is through their diet. While commercial dog food forms the cornerstone of a balanced diet, many human foods can offer incredible nutritional benefits and add exciting variety to your dog’s meals. But with so much conflicting information out there, knowing What Are Good Things For Dogs To Eat can be a challenge. This guide, brought to you by Dog Care Story, delves into a comprehensive list of safe, healthy human foods that can positively contribute to your dog’s well-being, while also highlighting crucial preparation tips and potential hazards to ensure their safety.
Understanding which foods are beneficial goes beyond just satisfying hunger; it’s about providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support everything from a robust immune system to optimal digestion. Remember, moderation is key, and it’s always wise to consult your veterinarian before introducing significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions. Let’s explore the world of dog-friendly human foods that can truly make a difference in your companion’s life. However, it’s equally important to know what are some things dogs can’t eat to prevent any accidental ingestions.
Safe and Nutritious Fruits for Your Canine Companion
Fruits offer a burst of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. When prepared correctly, they can be delightful, healthy treats.
Apples
Fresh apples are a fantastic, crunchy snack for dogs, provided you meticulously remove all seeds. Apple seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide, which can be harmful. This fruit is a good source of vitamins A and C, along with fiber, which is crucial for healthy digestion. Vitamin A supports the immune system, bone growth, and skin health, and is vital for maintaining good vision. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, can reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and support cardiovascular function.
Bananas
Bananas are a soft, palatable treat, particularly suitable for older dogs or those with sensitive teeth, as they are easy to chew and digest. This tropical fruit offers numerous health benefits, including helping to manage blood pressure and promoting overall heart health due to its potassium content. Bananas are also rich in fiber, which aids digestion; folate (vitamin B9), essential for healthy cell growth; lectin, which can improve blood sugar regulation and intestinal health; tryptophan, an amino acid important for regulating sleep, appetite, mood, and pain; and additional vitamin C for immune support.
Blueberries
These small, deep-purple (or sometimes blue) berries are a delightful and highly beneficial treat for both humans and dogs. Blueberries are an excellent source of essential vitamins and powerful antioxidants, including vitamins C, K, and A. These compounds are known to help combat free radicals, potentially reducing the likelihood of various diseases, disorders, and age-related health issues in dogs.
Mango
Don’t hog this delicious tropical fruit all to yourself! Mangoes are high in fiber and a wealth of vitamins, including A, B6, C, and E, making them an excellent sweet treat for dogs. However, it’s absolutely crucial to always remove the hard pit and the peel before offering mango to your dog, as both can pose choking hazards and contain compounds that could cause digestive upset or make your dog sick. Additionally, due to its natural sugar content, too much mango can lead to stomach issues, so offer this treat in strict moderation.
Watermelon
Everyone knows that watermelon is a refreshing treat, especially during warmer months, and it’s also a great way for dogs to stay hydrated. This juicy fruit is a good source of vitamins A, C, and B6. Just like with mango, you must remove all seeds and the rind before giving watermelon to your dog, as seeds can cause intestinal blockages and the rind is difficult to digest and can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
Beneficial Vegetables for Canine Health
Vegetables are packed with essential nutrients, fiber, and often have a satisfying crunch that dogs enjoy.
Carrots
Carrots are a wonderful treat for dogs, offering a satisfying crunch that can even help scrape plaque from their teeth, contributing to better dental hygiene. This popular orange root vegetable is also a good source of vitamin A, which is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. For teething puppies, cold or even frozen carrots can provide much-needed relief and a safe chewing outlet. However, it’s important to note that whole carrots can be a choking hazard for young or small dogs, so always cut them into small, manageable, bite-sized pieces to prevent any problems.
Cauliflower (Unseasoned)
Cauliflower is a low-calorie vegetable rich in nutrients, making it a great supplement to your dog’s regular diet. It provides fiber, antioxidants, folate, pantothenic acid, potassium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, choline, sulforaphane, and vitamins C, K, and B6. Despite its many benefits, cauliflower can sometimes cause gas in dogs, so it’s best to offer this treat in small amounts. It is safe to share with your pup either raw or cooked, but always ensure it is unseasoned to avoid ingredients harmful to dogs.
Celery
If you’re looking for a healthy, low-calorie treat for your dog, especially if they are a bit on the chunky side, celery can be an excellent option. Celery is remarkably low in fat and is a good source of fiber, as well as vitamins A, C, and K. It’s also packed with folate, potassium, and manganese, which are important for a healthy metabolism. An added bonus? Celery may even help freshen your pet’s breath! Similar to carrots, celery stalks can be a choking hazard due to their fibrous nature, so prevent any issues by chopping the veggie into bite-sized pieces, particularly for smaller dogs.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers, much like celery, are a fantastic low-calorie, sodium-free, and fat-free crunchy treat that many dogs adore. They are primarily water, making them hydrating and refreshing. However, just like celery and carrots, cucumbers can be a choking hazard, especially larger slices. Always be sure to cut them into small, bite-sized pieces for your four-legged family member to ensure safe consumption.
Green Beans
Green beans are one of the best choices for dogs needing to manage their weight, as they are exceptionally low in calories and fat. This versatile veggie is also a good source of fiber, which promotes digestive health, and vitamin C, an important antioxidant. You can feed your dog cooked green beans (steamed or boiled without seasoning) or even offer them frozen beans for a crunchy, cooling snack.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a truly fantastic supplement for almost any dog’s diet, especially for those with digestive sensitivities. It’s rich in nutritional value, offering vitamins A, C, and E, along with essential minerals like iron and potassium. Its high soluble fiber content makes it exceptional for your dog’s digestion, helping to alleviate common tummy issues such as diarrhea or constipation. Additionally, pumpkin is high in prebiotics, which support a healthy gut microbiome. Pumpkin is naturally low in calories and can be an excellent addition to your dog’s regular food. Always ensure that if you are buying canned pumpkin, it is 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which often contains dangerous additives and sweeteners that are toxic to dogs.
Healthy and Safe Food for Dogs
Wholesome Proteins & Grains for Your Canine Companion
Lean proteins and certain grains can be beneficial additions, providing energy and essential building blocks. However, when considering protein sources, it’s important to be aware of what meat is not good for dogs.
Beef (Cooked)
Beef is a highly nutritious protein source that provides all the essential amino acids dogs need, along with a wealth of vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. If you choose to offer your dog beef, it is paramount to ensure it is fully cooked to eliminate any potential bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli. Opt for grass-fed cattle if possible, as they tend to be a better source of beneficial fatty acids compared to grain-fed cattle. Always serve plain and unseasoned, and trim off any excess fat.
Chicken (Cooked and Unseasoned)
Plain, boiled chicken is a common recommendation from veterinarians for dogs experiencing an upset stomach, often paired with white rice. It’s easily digestible, high in lean protein, and low in fat, making it an ideal bland diet component. It can also be offered as a meat topper to your dog’s regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. However, since dogs are omnivores and require a balanced diet that extends beyond just meat, it’s best to offer chicken as a supplement or treat rather than a primary food source. Crucially, never give your dog chicken bones, especially cooked ones, as they can splinter easily and cause serious damage to your dog’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract, leading to internal injuries or blockages. For more details on avoiding harmful foods, explore what food dogs can’t have.
Eggs (Cooked and Unseasoned)
Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein and are packed with numerous vitamins, including A, B (Biotin, B12, Riboflavin), D, and K. They also provide other important nutrients such as selenium, calcium, and zinc, all of which contribute to a super healthy treat for your dog. It’s vital to make sure eggs are fully cooked, as raw eggs can contain Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning in dogs, just like in humans. Your dog may enjoy scrambled eggs or even a hard-boiled egg as a nutritious compliment to their regular diet.
Fish (Cooked and Unseasoned)
Certain fish, particularly salmon and sardines, are rich in protein and essential amino acids, while also being excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties and benefits for skin, coat, joint, and brain health. An added benefit of sardines is that their soft, tiny bones are safe for consumption and offer a valuable boost of calcium. However, for all other types of fish, it is absolutely essential to remove all bones before feeding fish to your dog, as they can be a choking hazard or cause internal damage. Always fully cook fish and ensure it is unseasoned. Limit your dog’s intake to no more than two servings per week to prevent potential mercury exposure and ensure a balanced diet. It’s especially important to know what is the one meat dogs should not eat to keep your pet safe.
Turkey (Cooked and Unseasoned)
Like chicken, plain, cooked turkey is a good source of lean protein that can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. When preparing turkey for your dog, be sure to remove all skin, bones, and excessive fat. Turkey skin is high in fat, which can cause pancreatitis, and bones, particularly cooked ones, are brittle and can splinter, leading to serious internal injuries or blockages. Any turkey you offer your dog should be fully cooked and completely unseasoned, avoiding any spices, gravies, or marinades that are commonly used in human cooking but can be toxic or irritating to dogs.
White Rice (Cooked)
Cooked white rice is a commonly recommended bland diet staple for dogs who are experiencing digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. It is easy to digest and its mild nature helps to firm up stool, providing relief for a temporarily sensitive stomach. However, it’s important to remember that rice can cause a spike in blood sugar. Therefore, dogs with diabetes should only consume small amounts, if any, and only under strict veterinary guidance. Your vet can help you determine the appropriate amount of rice for your dog, considering their specific health needs.
Other Healthy Treats and Considerations
Beyond fruits, vegetables, and proteins, some other items can offer health benefits.
Peanuts (Unsalted) and Peanut Butter
Peanuts are generally considered a safe nut for dogs to eat, provided they are unsalted and given in moderation. They contain healthy fats and protein, which are beneficial in small quantities. However, too much fat from peanuts can lead to issues like weight gain or even pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. Peanut butter offers the added benefits of vitamins B and E, as well as fiber, all of which are good for cardiovascular and digestive health. The most critical caution with peanut butter is to meticulously check the ingredients list to ensure it does not contain xylitol, a common sugar substitute that is highly toxic and potentially fatal to dogs. Always choose plain, unsalted, xylitol-free peanut butter.
Yogurt (Plain)
While some dogs have difficulty digesting dairy products due to lactose intolerance, plain, unsweetened yogurt can be a wonderfully healthy treat for many canines. The probiotics found in yogurt can help strengthen your dog’s digestive system and promote a healthy gut microbiome. However, it is absolutely essential not to give your dog yogurt with any added sugar, artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol), or artificial flavors, as these ingredients can be harmful or toxic. Opt for plain, whole milk yogurt with live active cultures.
Key Considerations When Feeding Your Dog Human Food
Introducing human foods to your dog’s diet comes with responsibilities. Here are some essential guidelines to ensure safety and maximum benefit.
Moderation is Key
Even the healthiest human foods should only be given as treats or supplements, making up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. The bulk of their diet should always come from a high-quality, nutritionally complete commercial dog food. Overfeeding, even with healthy items, can lead to weight gain and an imbalanced diet.
Always Cook and Unseason
Raw meats can harbor dangerous bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, while cooked bones can splinter. Always cook meats and eggs thoroughly. Furthermore, spices, salt, onions, garlic, and many other seasonings commonly used in human food are toxic or harmful to dogs. Always offer foods plain and unseasoned.
Remove Harmful Parts
Many fruits and vegetables have parts that are dangerous for dogs. This includes seeds, pits, cores, and rinds, which can be choking hazards, cause intestinal blockages, or contain toxic compounds. For example, avocado pits and skins are toxic, as are apple seeds. Knowing what vegetables dogs should not eat is also vital.
Introduce Gradually
When introducing a new food, start with a very small amount and observe your dog for any signs of digestive upset, allergies, or other adverse reactions. This allows their system to adjust and helps you identify any sensitivities.
Consult Your Vet
Before making significant changes to your dog’s diet or if your dog has any underlying health conditions (like diabetes, kidney disease, or allergies), always consult your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog’s specific needs and health profile.
Conclusion
Providing a varied, nutritious diet is a fundamental part of caring for your dog. By understanding what are good things for dogs to eat from your own kitchen, you can safely enrich their meals with beneficial vitamins, minerals, and fiber. From crisp apples and hydrating watermelon to lean proteins like chicken and turkey, and digestive aids like pumpkin, the options for healthy treats are plentiful. However, always prioritize safety by preparing foods correctly—removing seeds, pits, and bones, and serving everything plain and unseasoned. Remember, these human foods are supplements, not substitutes, for a well-balanced commercial dog food diet. For any dietary concerns or before making substantial changes, a consultation with your veterinarian is always the best course of action. Continue your journey of informed pet care by exploring more articles on Dog Care Story to keep your beloved canine companion happy, healthy, and thriving for years to come!
