Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time, filled with joy, cuddles, and endless questions – especially when it comes to their diet. While high-quality commercial puppy food forms the foundation of a healthy diet, many puppy parents wonder: what can puppies eat other than dog food? It’s natural to want to share your own meals, but it’s crucial to understand which human foods are safe and beneficial for your growing furry friend, and which can be harmful. Introducing new foods to puppies requires extra caution due to their developing digestive systems and sensitive stomachs. Always consult your veterinarian before adding anything new to your puppy’s diet, especially if they have any health conditions or sensitivities.
This guide will walk you through a variety of human foods that are generally safe for puppies, outlining their benefits and important considerations for feeding. Remember, these should always be given in moderation, acting as treats or small supplements, never as a replacement for their specially formulated puppy food. For a broader understanding of safe canine nutrition, you might also be interested in exploring what is safe for a dog to eat.
Safe Human Foods for Your Growing Puppy
When considering what to offer your puppy beyond their regular meals, focus on whole, unprocessed foods. These options can provide essential nutrients and variety, making treat time both enjoyable and healthy.
Eggs: A Protein-Packed Treat
Cooked eggs are an excellent source of protein and can be a fantastic, easily digestible treat for puppies, especially if they have an upset stomach. The amino acids and vitamins in eggs contribute to healthy growth and development. However, it’s vital that eggs are fully cooked before serving. Raw egg whites contain avidin, an enzyme that can interfere with the absorption of biotin, an important B vitamin, potentially leading to a deficiency over time. Scrambled or boiled eggs, cooled and cut into small, puppy-friendly pieces, are ideal. Introduce them slowly to ensure your puppy tolerates them well.
Fish: Omega-3 Benefits
Certain types of cooked fish, such as salmon and sardines, offer a healthy boost of good fats and amino acids, which are crucial for a puppy’s developing brain and vision. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting healthy joints and a strong immune system. Sardines, with their soft, digestible bones, can also provide extra calcium. When feeding fish, it is absolutely imperative that it is thoroughly cooked and all tiny bones are meticulously removed (except for the soft bones in sardines). Never offer raw or undercooked fish, as it can contain parasites that are highly toxic and potentially fatal to dogs, especially vulnerable puppies. Limit fish intake to small amounts, no more than once or twice a week, as a special treat.
Chicken and Turkey: Lean Protein Sources
Cooked, plain chicken and turkey, without any skin, bones, or seasoning, are excellent lean protein sources for puppies. Protein is vital for muscle development and overall growth. Always ensure the meat is fully cooked and cooled. Remove all bones, as poultry bones can splinter and cause severe internal damage or blockages in a puppy’s digestive tract. Avoid any meat prepared with onions, garlic, excessive salt, or other seasonings, as these can be toxic to dogs. Offering small, shredded pieces of cooked chicken or turkey can be a high-value reward during training.
Pork: Highly Digestible Protein
Cooked pork, like chicken and turkey, can be a highly digestible protein source, offering essential amino acids for your puppy’s growth. It may also be a good option for puppies with sensitivities to other common proteins. However, pork generally contains more calories and fat than chicken or turkey. If you choose to offer pork, ensure it is lean, fully cooked, and free from excessive fat, skin, seasonings, or bones. A small, unseasoned piece can be given as an occasional treat.
Bread: A Simple, Occasional Treat
Small, plain pieces of bread, without any spices, raisins, or other potentially harmful ingredients, are generally safe for puppies. However, bread offers minimal nutritional benefits and is high in carbohydrates and calories. It won’t hurt your puppy in tiny amounts, but it also won’t contribute significantly to their health. Avoid store-bought breads with preservatives. If you must give bread, homemade, plain varieties are better, but it’s best to limit it strictly to very small, infrequent amounts. It’s important to remember that puppies need nutrient-dense foods for their rapid growth.
Cashews: A Nutritious Crunch
Unsalted cashews, given in very small quantities, can be a safe treat for puppies. They contain calcium, magnesium, antioxidants, and protein, all beneficial for a growing pup. However, cashews are also relatively high in fat. Too many can lead to weight gain or digestive upset in puppies. Offer only a few unsalted cashews as a rare, special reward. Ensure they are plain and not flavored with any spices or coatings.
Cheese: A High-Value Reward
Most puppies adore cheese, and in small to moderate amounts, it can be a wonderful, high-value treat. As long as your puppy isn’t lactose intolerant (which is rare but possible, so observe for digestive upset), cheese can be a good source of protein and calcium. Opt for lower-fat varieties like cottage cheese or mozzarella. Always introduce new dairy products slowly. The high-fat content in many cheeses means they should be given sparingly to avoid weight gain or pancreatitis, especially in young puppies. Many dogs also enjoy specialized Himalayan dog chews made from dried cheese.
An adorable All American Dog rests its head on a kitchen table, looking longingly at a piece of cheese, ready for a small treat.
Coconut: Tropical Benefits
Coconut, in its various forms, can offer several health benefits for puppies. It contains lauric acid, which may help combat bacteria and viruses, supporting a puppy’s developing immune system. Coconut can also help with bad breath and may alleviate certain skin conditions like hot spots or itchy skin, common in some young dogs. Coconut milk and coconut oil are also safe. When giving fresh coconut, ensure the hard, furry outer shell is completely removed, as it can be a choking hazard or cause internal blockages if ingested. Introduce coconut products slowly and in small amounts to monitor for any digestive reactions.
Corn: A Common Ingredient
Corn is a common ingredient in many commercial dog foods, and in moderation, it is safe for puppies. It provides carbohydrates for energy and some fiber. However, the cob is a significant choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages, which are particularly dangerous for puppies. Always ensure any corn offered to your puppy is completely off the cob. A few kernels of plain, cooked corn can be a fun and safe snack.
Honey: Sweet Support
Honey is a natural sweetener packed with beneficial nutrients such as vitamins, minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper), and antioxidants. Small amounts of local honey may even help puppies build immunity to local allergens by introducing tiny amounts of pollen to their systems. Beyond internal consumption, honey can also be used topically on minor burns or superficial cuts due to its antimicrobial properties. However, honey is high in sugar, so it should be given very sparingly and only to puppies over 8 weeks old, as very young puppies might be susceptible to botulism spores, though this is rare.
Milk: Caution Required
While puppies are born drinking milk, their ability to digest lactose can decrease after weaning. Some dogs are lactose intolerant and may experience digestive upset like diarrhea or gas if given cow’s milk. While a very small amount of plain milk might be tolerated, it’s best to err on the side of caution. If you do offer a tiny bit, watch for any signs of discomfort. Water is always the best and safest beverage for your puppy.
Peanut Butter: A Training Staple
Unsalted, raw peanut butter can be an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins (B, E, niacin) for puppies. It’s often used to administer medication or stuff Kong toys for enrichment. However, careful label reading is critical: never give peanut butter containing xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is highly toxic and potentially fatal to dogs, even in small amounts. Always choose natural, unsalted, xylitol-free peanut butter and offer it in moderation due to its high-calorie and fat content.
Peanuts: A Healthy Snack
Unlike some other nuts, plain, unsalted peanuts are safe for puppies to eat in moderation. They provide good fats and protein, which can be beneficial. However, like cashews, peanuts are calorie-dense and high in fat. Too many can lead to weight gain or potential pancreas issues, especially in puppies. Always ensure they are unsalted and given as an occasional treat.
A French Bulldog puppy enjoys a meal from its bowl at home, demonstrating healthy eating habits.
Popcorn: A Light, Crunchy Treat
Air-popped popcorn, completely unsalted and unbuttered, can be an acceptable treat for puppies in very small amounts. It contains riboflavin and thiamine, which support eye health and digestion, along with small amounts of iron and protein. The most important consideration is ensuring all kernels are fully popped, as unpopped kernels can be a choking hazard or cause digestive issues. This should be an occasional, sparse treat due to its minimal nutritional value.
Quinoa: A Nutrient-Rich Grain
Quinoa is gaining popularity as a healthy alternative to more common starches like corn and wheat in high-quality dog foods, and it’s perfectly safe for puppies. Its strong nutritional profile includes protein, fiber, and essential minerals. Cooked quinoa, served plain and in small amounts, can be a beneficial addition to your puppy’s diet, offering a different texture and nutrient blend. Ensure it is well-cooked and cooled before serving.
Shrimp: A Lean Seafood Option
A few fully cooked shrimp, with all shells, tails, heads, and legs completely removed, can be a safe and healthy treat for your puppy. Shrimp are low in fat, calories, and carbohydrates, while being rich in antioxidants, vitamin B-12, and phosphorus. These nutrients contribute to overall health and development. Always ensure shrimp are plain, cooked, and thoroughly peeled to prevent choking or digestive issues from shell fragments.
A curious Samoyed puppy lays comfortably in the green grass outdoors, observing its surroundings.
Tuna: Small Amounts Only
Cooked, fresh tuna, given in very small, infrequent amounts, can be a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and eye health in puppies. However, tuna can contain small amounts of mercury, and canned tuna often has high sodium levels, both of which should be avoided in excess, especially for young, developing puppies. If offering canned tuna, choose varieties packed in water (not oil) and ensure it contains no added spices. This is definitely a “less is more” treat. For more details on what foods to limit, you can read about what to give my dog to eat.
Wheat or Grains: Not Always the Enemy
The notion that dogs need to be grain-free is often a misconception. Grains like wheat and corn can be excellent sources of protein, essential fatty acids, and fiber, contributing to a puppy’s energy levels and digestive health. Unless your puppy has a diagnosed grain allergy, there’s no need to avoid them. In fact, whole grains can be a beneficial part of a balanced diet. If you suspect allergies, consult your veterinarian for guidance on appropriate dietary choices.
Yogurt: Probiotic Power
Plain, unsweetened yogurt can be a perfectly acceptable and beneficial snack for puppies, provided they don’t show signs of lactose intolerance. The active bacteria (probiotics) in yogurt can help support and strengthen a puppy’s developing digestive system, aiding in nutrient absorption and gut health. Always choose plain yogurt without any added sugar, artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol), or fruit flavorings, as these can be harmful. Introduce a very small amount first to check for tolerance.
A gentle Papillon puppy carefully takes a small treat from a human hand, showcasing good manners.
Important Considerations for Feeding Puppies Human Foods
While the above foods are generally safe, always prioritize caution with puppies. Their digestive systems are more sensitive than adult dogs, and what might be fine for an adult could cause issues for a pup. Here are some key points to remember:
- Moderation is Key: Human foods should never make up a significant portion of a puppy’s diet. They are treats, not meal replacements.
- No Seasonings: Avoid all salt, pepper, onions, garlic, and other spices, as many are toxic or can cause digestive upset.
- Choking Hazards: Always cut food into small, manageable pieces appropriate for your puppy’s size. Remove bones, seeds, pits, and tough skins.
- Allergies and Intolerances: Introduce one new food at a time and observe your puppy for any signs of adverse reactions like vomiting, diarrhea, itching, or lethargy.
- Consult Your Vet: Always speak with your veterinarian before introducing any new human foods, especially if your puppy has any health conditions or is on a special diet.
It’s also crucial to be aware of foods that are definitively toxic to dogs. Understanding what shouldnt i feed my dog is just as important as knowing what they can eat.
Conclusion
Providing a varied and nutritious diet is crucial for your puppy’s healthy development. While commercial puppy food remains the cornerstone, carefully selected human foods can offer enjoyable, beneficial treats and supplements. From protein-rich eggs and fish to healthy fats from safe nuts and probiotic benefits from plain yogurt, there are many options to consider when you ponder what can puppies eat other than dog food. Always introduce new items gradually, monitor for reactions, and prioritize plain, unseasoned preparation. Your veterinarian is your best resource for personalized dietary advice. By being mindful and well-informed, you can ensure your puppy enjoys a happy, healthy, and delicious journey into adulthood. For further insights into optimal feeding practices, continue exploring our comprehensive guides on dog nutrition.
