Sharing food with our beloved canine companions is a common desire for many dog owners. While their pleading eyes can be hard to resist, it’s crucial to know What Is Good For Dogs To Eat Human Food and what should be strictly avoided. Providing your dog with certain human foods can offer nutritional benefits, act as healthy treats, and even aid in specific health conditions. However, understanding the correct preparation, portion sizes, and potential hazards is paramount to ensuring their safety and well-being. This guide delves into a variety of human foods that are generally safe and beneficial for dogs, helping you make informed decisions when it comes to supplementing their diet.
Healthy Fruits for Your Furry Friend
Fruits can be a delightful and nutritious addition to your dog’s diet, offering essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Always remember to wash fruits thoroughly and remove any parts that could be toxic or pose a choking hazard.
Apples
Fresh apples are a fantastic, crunchy snack for dogs, provided you remove the seeds, which contain small amounts of cyanide. This fruit is a good source of vitamins A and C, along with fiber, crucial for healthy digestion. Vitamin A supports immune function, bone growth, and skin health, while also maintaining vision. Vitamin C helps reduce inflammation, boosts immunity, and aids cardiovascular function.
Bananas
Bananas are a tasty and easily digestible treat, particularly well-suited for older dogs or those with sensitive teeth. This soft fruit is packed with health benefits, including reducing blood pressure and promoting overall heart health. Bananas are rich in fiber, which aids digestion; folate/vitamin B9, contributing to healthy cell growth; lectin, which improves blood sugar and intestinal health; potassium, vital for fluid balance and kidney function; and tryptophan, an essential amino acid that helps regulate sleep, appetite, mood, and pain. They also contain immune-boosting vitamin C.
Blueberries
Often called “superfoods,” blueberries are a favorite for both humans and dogs. These tiny powerhouses are a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamins C, K, and A. These nutrients may help reduce the likelihood of various diseases, disorders, and age-related issues, contributing to a longer, healthier life for your pet.
Mango
Don’t keep this delicious tropical fruit all to yourself; mangoes are high in fiber and vitamins A, B6, C, and E, making them a fantastic sweet treat for your canine. Always remove the large pit and the peel, as both could make your dog sick or cause choking. Due to its sugar content, too much mango can lead to stomach upset, so offer this fruit in moderation as an occasional treat.
Watermelon
A bite of watermelon is a refreshing way to stay hydrated, especially in warmer months. This hydrating fruit is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and B6. Before offering watermelon to your dog, be sure to remove all seeds and the rind to prevent choking hazards and digestive issues.
Wholesome Vegetables Dogs Can Munch On
Many vegetables are safe and beneficial for dogs, offering a low-calorie way to boost their nutrient intake. Always ensure vegetables are unseasoned and cut into appropriate sizes. For more insights on general canine nutrition, consider what can dogs eat and drink.
Carrots
Carrots are an excellent treat for dogs. Their crunchy texture can help remove plaque from their teeth, acting as a natural toothbrush. This vibrant orange root vegetable is also a good source of vitamin A. Cold or frozen carrots can be particularly helpful for teething puppies, providing a soothing chew toy and easing discomfort. However, carrots can be a choking hazard for young or small dogs, so it’s important to cut them into small, manageable pieces to avoid any problems.
Cauliflower
Low in calories and brimming with nutrients, unseasoned cauliflower can be a great way to supplement 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, just make sure it’s plain and unseasoned.
Celery
If you’re looking for a low-calorie snack for your dog, celery could be an ideal choice. Celery is low in fat and a good source of fiber and vitamins A, C, and K. It’s also packed with folate, potassium, and manganese, which promote healthy metabolism, and may even help freshen your pet’s breath. Like carrots, celery can be a choking hazard. Prevent any problems by chopping the veggie into bite-sized pieces, especially for smaller dogs.
Cucumbers
Similar to celery, cucumbers are a low-calorie, sodium-free, and fat-free crunchy treat that many dogs enjoy. They offer a refreshing snack, especially on a warm day. However, much like celery, this vegetable can be a choking hazard, so always be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for your four-legged family member.
Green Beans
Green beans are one of the best vegetable choices for dogs, especially for those who need to watch their weight, as they are exceptionally low in calories and fat. This versatile veggie is also a good source of fiber and vitamin C. You can feed your dog cooked green beans or offer them frozen beans for a satisfyingly crunchy snack.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a fantastic supplement for any dog’s diet. It’s incredibly rich in nutritional value, offering vitamins A, C, and E, along with minerals like iron and potassium. Its high soluble fiber content makes it excellent for your dog’s digestion, helping with common tummy issues like diarrhea or constipation. Pumpkin is also high in prebiotics, which further support a healthy digestive tract. This low-calorie food can be an excellent addition to your dog’s regular meals. Always ensure that if you’re buying canned pumpkin, it is pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which often contains dangerous additives for dogs.
Protein-Packed Options for Canine Health
Proteins are fundamental to a dog’s diet, supporting muscle growth, energy, and overall body function. When offering human protein sources, ensure they are fully cooked and unseasoned.
Beef
Beef is a highly nutritious protein source that provides all the essential amino acids your dog needs, plus a wealth of vitamins and minerals. If you choose to give your dog beef, ensure it’s fully cooked to eliminate any harmful bacteria. Opting for grass-fed cattle, if possible, can be beneficial, as they tend to be a better source of healthy fatty acids compared to grain-fed cattle.
Chicken
When your dog has an upset stomach, veterinarians often recommend feeding them plain, boiled chicken and rice. Chicken is easily digestible, high in protein, and low in fat, making it a gentle option for sensitive tummies. It can be presented as a meat topper to your dog’s kibble. However, while dogs are omnivores, they require a balanced diet beyond just meat, so chicken is best offered as a supplement or treat rather than a primary food source. Never give your dog chicken bones, especially cooked ones, as they can splinter and cause severe damage to your dog’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract. For dogs with specific dietary needs, especially if they are sick, understanding what can you give a sick dog to eat is crucial.
Eggs
Cooked eggs are an excellent source of protein and rich in many vitamins, including A, B, D, and K. They also provide important nutrients such as selenium, calcium, and zinc, all contributing to a super healthy treat for your dog. It’s vital to cook eggs thoroughly, as raw eggs can contain salmonella. Your dog might enjoy scrambled eggs or a hard-boiled egg as a nutritious complement to their regular diet.
Fish
Fish, particularly salmon and sardines, are rich in protein and amino acids, and are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote skin, coat, and joint health. An added benefit of sardines is that their soft bones offer a valuable boost of calcium. Note that sardines are typically the only fish you can leave the bones in; otherwise, it is essential to remove all fish bones before feeding fish to your dog. Always fully cook fish and limit your dog’s intake to no more than two servings per week to avoid potential issues from excessive mercury or other contaminants.
Turkey
Like chicken, turkey is a lean and excellent source of protein for dogs. When preparing turkey for your dog, be sure to remove all skin, bones, and excessive fat. Any turkey you offer should be fully cooked and completely unseasoned, as many seasonings can be harmful to dogs.
Other Beneficial Human Foods
Beyond fruits, vegetables, and meats, a few other human foods can provide health benefits when given appropriately.
Peanuts (Unsalted) and Peanut Butter
Unsalted peanuts are a safe nut for dogs to eat. They contain good fats and protein, but excessive fat intake can lead to issues like weight gain or pancreatitis, so moderation is key. 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. Crucially, always ensure that the peanut butter you give your dog does not contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that is highly toxic and potentially fatal to dogs.
White Rice (Cooked)
Cooked white rice is a staple often recommended by veterinarians for dogs needing a bland diet, particularly when recovering from an upset stomach. It’s easy to digest and helps to firm up stool. However, because rice can cause a spike in blood sugar, dogs with diabetes should only consume small amounts, if any, and only under veterinary guidance. Your vet can help you determine the appropriate amount of rice for your dog. For puppies, especially if they are unwell, knowing what to feed a sick puppy that will not eat is critical.
Yogurt (Plain)
While some dogs have difficulty digesting dairy products due to lactose intolerance, plain, unsweetened yogurt can be a wonderfully healthy treat. The probiotics found in yogurt can help strengthen your dog’s digestive system. However, it is imperative not to give your dog any yogurt with added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or fruit flavorings, as these can be detrimental to their health.
Important Considerations When Sharing Human Food
While many human foods can be safe and healthy for dogs, responsible feeding practices are crucial. Always prioritize your dog’s safety and health.
- Moderation is Key: Even healthy human foods should only be given as treats and not form the bulk of your dog’s diet. Their primary nutrition should come from a balanced, high-quality dog food.
- Always Unseasoned and Cooked Appropriately: Never feed your dog seasoned or heavily spiced human food. Many common spices, onions, and garlic are toxic to dogs. Ensure all meats and eggs are thoroughly cooked to eliminate bacteria.
- Remove Seeds, Pits, Rinds, and Bones: These parts can be choking hazards, contain toxic compounds (like cyanide in apple seeds), or cause digestive blockages and internal damage. For specific concerns about fruits, you might want to learn about what fruits are not good for dogs.
- Choking Hazards: Always cut foods like carrots, celery, and cucumbers into small, bite-sized pieces, especially for smaller dogs or puppies.
- Monitor for Allergies/Sensitivities: Introduce new foods slowly and in small amounts. Watch for any signs of digestive upset, skin irritation, or other adverse reactions.
- Consult Your Veterinarian: Before making significant changes to your dog’s diet or if you have any concerns, always consult with your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog’s specific health needs and dietary requirements. For a comprehensive overview of safe foods, refer to resources on what is good for dogs to eat.
Healthy and Safe Food for Dogs
Conclusion
Understanding what is good for dogs to eat human food empowers you to provide enriching and nutritious supplements to their diet. From crunchy apples to protein-rich cooked chicken, many common household foods can offer significant health benefits when prepared and served correctly. By adhering to guidelines of moderation, proper preparation, and avoiding harmful ingredients, you can safely share your meals and enhance your dog’s well-being. Always remember that a dog’s diet should be primarily composed of high-quality dog food, with human foods acting as occasional, healthy treats. For any dietary changes or concerns, consulting your veterinarian is always the best approach to ensure your beloved companion remains happy and healthy. Discover more about optimal pet nutrition and care by exploring other articles on Dog Care Story!
Expert Reviewer:
This article’s content has been reviewed by Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth), V.M.D. Dr. Wiederkehr has been practicing veterinary medicine at pet care facilities in California since 2001, most recently serving as medical director of the VCA PetPoint Medical Center and Resort in Irvine. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, she became board-certified as a diplomate in Canine and Feline Practice by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in 2010.
