As loving dog owners, we often find ourselves wanting to share our meals with our furry companions. While it’s tempting to let them sample a bit of everything on our plates, not all human foods are safe or beneficial for dogs. In fact, some can be outright harmful. Knowing what human foods can safely be given to your dog, and in what manner, is crucial for their health and well-being. This guide aims to shed light on healthy and safe human food options that can complement your dog’s balanced diet, offering them nutritious treats and varied flavors. Always remember that moderation is key, and consulting your veterinarian before introducing new foods is highly recommended to ensure they align with your dog’s specific dietary needs and health conditions. Understanding what is safe for a dog to eat is the first step towards happy and healthy snacking.
Essential Fruits for Your Canine Companion
Fruits can be a delightful and healthy addition to your dog’s diet, offering essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, proper preparation is crucial to avoid any potential hazards.
Apples: The Crunchy Treat
Fresh apples are a wonderful, crunchy snack for dogs, provided you remove all seeds. The fruit is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, which is important for digestive health. Vitamin A supports the immune system, assists in bone growth, and promotes skin health, while also helping to maintain vision. Meanwhile, vitamin C can reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and aid with cardiovascular function.
Bananas: A Soft & Nutrient-Rich Snack
Bananas are a tasty and easily chewable treat, especially well-suited for older dogs who may have fewer or more sensitive teeth. This fruit is packed with health benefits, including helping to reduce blood pressure and promoting overall heart health. Bananas are rich in fiber (aids in digestion), folate/vitamin B9 (contributes to healthy cell growth), lectin (improves blood sugar and intestinal health), potassium (helps with fluid balance and kidneys), tryptophan (an essential amino acid for regulating sleep, appetite, mood, and pain), and vitamin C (an immune booster).
Blueberries: Antioxidant Powerhouses
Blueberries are a fantastic treat for both humans and dogs. These small berries are a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants, like vitamins C, K, and A, which may reduce the likelihood of diseases, disorders, and age-related issues in your canine friend. Their antioxidant properties make them a superfood for promoting overall cellular health.
Mango: A Sweet Tropical Delight
Don’t keep this delicious tropical fruit to yourself! Mango is high in fiber and vitamins A, B6, C, and E, making it a fantastic sweet treat for dogs. Always remove the pit and peel, as both could make your dog sick or pose a choking hazard. Additionally, too much mango could cause stomach issues due to its sugar content, so this is one item to give in moderation.
Watermelon: Hydration & Vitamins
Watermelon is a delicious way for dogs to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, and is a good source of vitamins A, C, and B6. Remember to remove all seeds and the rind before giving watermelon to your dog, as both can cause digestive upset or blockages. This juicy fruit offers a refreshing and nutritious snack.
Wholesome Vegetables for a Healthy Pup
Vegetables provide essential nutrients, fiber, and often a satisfying crunch that dogs love. Preparation is key to ensure they are safe and digestible.
Carrots: Dental Health & Vitamin A
Carrots can be a great treat for dogs. The crunchy texture can help remove plaque from their teeth, acting as a natural toothbrush, and this orange root vegetable is also a good source of vitamin A. Cold or frozen carrots can be particularly helpful for teething puppies, giving them something safe to chew on 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: Nutrient-Dense and Low-Calorie
Low in calories and packed with nutrients like fiber, antioxidants, folate, pantothenic acid, potassium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, choline, sulforaphane, and vitamins C, K, and B6, cauliflower is a great way to supplement your dog’s regular diet. Despite all its benefits, cauliflower can make your dog gassy, so keep this treat restricted to small amounts. It’s safe to share with your pup raw or cooked, just make sure it’s unseasoned.
Celery: A Low-Fat Breath Freshener
If your pup needs a low-calorie option, celery could be an excellent choice. Celery is low in fat and is a good source of fiber and vitamins A, C, and K. It’s also packed with folate, potassium, and manganese, which promotes a healthy metabolism, and it may even help freshen your pet’s breath. Similar to carrots, celery can be a choking hazard. Prevent any problems by chopping the veggie into bite-sized pieces, especially for smaller dogs.
Cucumbers: Crunchy & Hydrating
Similar to celery, cucumbers are a low-calorie, sodium- and fat-free crunchy treat that your dog may love. Composed mostly of water, they are excellent for hydration. However, also like celery, this vegetable can be a choking hazard, so be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for your four-legged family member.
Green Beans: Ideal for Weight Management
Green beans are one of the best foods on this list for overweight dogs because they are remarkably 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 give them frozen beans for a crunchy, refreshing snack that aids in digestion without adding excess weight.
Pumpkin: The Digestive Aid
Pumpkin is a fantastic supplement to any dog’s diet: it’s rich in nutritional value (vitamins A, C, and E, plus minerals like iron and potassium) and has high soluble fiber content, making it great for your dog’s digestion and helping with tummy issues like diarrhea or constipation. It’s high in prebiotics, too, which support a healthy digestive tract. Pumpkin is low in calories and can be an excellent addition to your dog’s regular food. Always make sure that if you are buying canned pumpkin, it is pure pumpkin—not pumpkin pie filling with dangerous-for-dogs additives.
Lean Proteins and Other Beneficial Staples
Proteins are fundamental for a dog’s health, supporting muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. Certain cooked proteins and other staples from your kitchen can be beneficial.
Cooked Beef: A Rich Protein Source
Beef is a nutritious protein source that provides all the essential amino acids, plus a variety of vitamins and minerals crucial for your dog’s health. If you choose to give your dog beef, make sure it’s fully cooked to eliminate any bacteria, and choose lean cuts. Grass-fed cattle are often a better source of beneficial fatty acids than grain-fed cattle.
Cooked Chicken: Gentle on Upset Stomachs
If your dog has an upset stomach, chances are your vet will recommend feeding them plain, boiled chicken and rice. Chicken is easily digestible, high in protein, and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for sensitive digestive systems. It’s important to offer this as a supplement or treat rather than a primary food source, as dogs require a more balanced diet than just meat. Never give your dog chicken bones (especially cooked)—they can splinter and damage your dog’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Cooked Eggs: A Complete Protein Boost
Eggs are an excellent source of protein and are high in many vitamins, including vitamins A, B, D, and K. Other important nutrients include selenium, calcium, and zinc—all of which contribute to a super healthy treat for your dog. Make sure to cook them well, as raw eggs can contain salmonella. Your dog may enjoy scrambled eggs or a hard-boiled egg as a complement to their regular diet.
Cooked Fish (Salmon, Sardines): Omega-3 Power
Fish, especially salmon and sardines, are rich in protein and amino acids, while also being a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for skin, coat, and brain health. An added benefit of sardines is that their soft bones offer a valuable boost of calcium. Note: Sardines are generally the only fish you can leave the bones in; otherwise, it’s critical 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. For more on safe meaty treats, you can learn about what meat should you never give a dog.
Cooked Turkey: Another Lean Option
Like chicken, turkey is a good source of lean protein. Be sure to remove the skin, bones, and any excess fat before serving. Any turkey you give your dog should be fully cooked and completely unseasoned. This makes it a safe and healthy treat for holidays or as an occasional supplement.
Unsalted Peanuts and Peanut Butter: Healthy Fats and Fiber
Peanuts are a safe nut for dogs to eat, as long as they are unsalted. They contain good fats and protein, but too much fat can lead to issues like weight gain or pancreatitis, so offer them in moderation. Peanut butter has 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 doesn’t contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that is highly toxic to dogs.
Cooked White Rice: For Sensitive Stomachs
Cooked white rice is often recommended for dogs needing a bland diet for a few days, especially when recovering from stomach upset. It’s easy to digest and helps firm up stool. However, since rice can cause a spike in blood sugar, dogs with diabetes should only eat small amounts, if any. Your vet can help you determine how much rice, if any, your dog should consume.
Plain Yogurt: Probiotic Goodness
Some dogs have difficulty digesting dairy products, but plain yogurt can be a wonderfully healthy treat, as its probiotics can help strengthen your dog’s digestive system. The live active cultures are beneficial for gut health. However, do not give your dog yogurt with any added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or flavors, as these can be detrimental to their health.
Making Informed Choices for Your Dog’s Diet
Incorporating human foods into your dog’s diet can be a rewarding way to provide them with diverse nutrients and enjoyable treats. However, the key to doing so safely and effectively lies in careful selection, proper preparation, and thoughtful moderation. Always prioritize foods that are fresh, unseasoned, and free from any toxic ingredients. Remove all seeds, pits, rinds, and bones that could pose choking hazards or lead to digestive issues. Remember that these human foods should only complement your dog’s primary, balanced dog food, not replace it. Your dog’s health is paramount, so observing how they react to new foods and consulting with your veterinarian for personalized advice are essential steps. By making informed choices, you can enhance your dog’s diet and strengthen your bond.
Healthy and Safe Food for Dogs
Expert Reviewer
Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth), V.M.D.
Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth) has been practicing veterinary medicine at pet care facilities in California since 2001. Most recently, she served as medical director of the VCA PetPoint Medical Center and Resort in Irvine. She is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and became board-certified as a diplomate in Canine and Feline Practice by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in 2010.
Author Bio
Abbie Mood is a freelance writer with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked with clients of all sizes to create compelling content and has written for the American Kennel Club, Marriott Bonvoy, Women’s Health Online, Headspace, and more.
