As a pet parent, it’s only natural to want to share a bit of your food with your dog. However, not all human foods are safe for our furry friends, and some can lead to serious health issues. While some foods are perfectly fine to give as occasional treats, others can be harmful or even toxic. Freshpet will help you navigate which human foods are safe for dogs and which should be avoided at all costs.
Safe Human Foods for Dogs
- Peanut butter, specifically unsalted and free from artificial sweeteners like xylitol, is a great treat for many dogs. It is rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins like B and E. You can use it as a spread for dog toys, mixed into kibble, or given as a special snack.
- Carrots are a crunchy, low-calorie snack that many dogs enjoy. They are high in fiber and beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, supporting eye health and a shiny coat. They also make great natural chew toys for teething puppies.
- Apples provide a refreshing, vitamin-rich treat for dogs. They are a good source of vitamins A and C and can help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath. Make sure to remove the seeds and core before offering apple slices to your dog, as these parts can be harmful.
- Blueberries are a superfood packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. These small, bite-sized berries are a safe and tasty snack for dogs and can even be used as training treats.
- Plain, cooked chicken is a lean source of protein that many dogs love. It’s especially useful if your dog has an upset stomach or is recovering from illness. Be sure to remove any bones, skin, and seasoning before feeding it to your pet.
- Pumpkin is rich in fiber and is often recommended by veterinarians to help regulate a dog’s digestive system. It’s particularly helpful for dogs with diarrhea or constipation. Make sure to feed plain, canned pumpkin or fresh-cooked pumpkin—never the sweetened or spiced kind used for pies.
- Plain yogurt is an excellent source of calcium and probiotics, which promote gut health. Dogs with sensitive stomachs or mild digestive issues may benefit from the good bacteria found in yogurt. However, ensure it’s free of added sugars or artificial sweeteners like xylitol.
- Green beans are low in calories but high in vitamins, fiber, and minerals, making them an ideal healthy snack for dogs. You can feed them cooked, steamed, or raw, as long as there are no added seasonings.
- Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and fiber-rich food that is gentle on your dog’s digestive system. They are loaded with vitamins A, C, and B6, making them a perfect supplement to a dog’s regular diet. Avoid feeding raw sweet potatoes, as they can be difficult for dogs to digest.
- Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your dog’s skin and coat. Salmon is also a good source of protein and can help boost your dog’s immune system. Be sure to thoroughly cook the salmon, as raw fish may contain harmful parasites.
Unsafe Human Foods for Dogs
While the above foods are safe for dogs in moderation, many common human foods are dangerous and should never be fed to dogs. Here are ten foods that are unsafe for dogs and should be avoided:
- Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxic foods for dogs. It contains theobromine, a substance that dogs metabolize very slowly. Even small amounts of chocolate can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, seizures, or even death.
- Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to dogs and can lead to sudden kidney failure, even in small amounts. Symptoms of grape or raisin poisoning include vomiting, lethargy, and abdominal pain, often leading to more severe consequences.
- Onions and garlic, along with other related vegetables, contain compounds that can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Both raw and cooked versions are harmful, and symptoms of toxicity may not appear until several days after ingestion.
- Avocados contain persin, a substance that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive issues in dogs. While the flesh is considered less toxic, the pit, skin, and leaves contain higher concentrations of persin and should be avoided entirely.
- Alcohol has the same effects on a dog’s liver and brain as it does in humans, but it takes much less to cause damage. Even small amounts of alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, coordination problems, and central nervous system depression. In severe cases, alcohol ingestion can lead to death.
- Macadamia nuts are highly toxic to dogs, causing symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia. Just a few macadamia nuts can cause serious issues, and it’s best to keep these nuts out of reach at all times.
- Caffeine is another stimulant that can be dangerous for dogs. It affects the central nervous system and can cause symptoms like restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors. Any form of caffeine, including coffee, tea, and energy drinks, should be avoided.
- Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free products such as gum, candy, and baked goods. It can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and, in severe cases, liver failure. Symptoms include vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures.
- Cooked Bones, unlike raw bones, are dangerous. They can splinter easily and cause choking, blockages, or tears in the digestive tract. If you want to give your dog bones, make sure they are raw and appropriately sized for your dog’s breed and chewing habits.
- Raw dough can expand in a dog’s stomach, leading to bloating and potentially life-threatening complications like stomach torsion. Additionally, as the yeast ferments, it produces alcohol, which can lead to alcohol poisoning.
Knowing what human foods are safe and unsafe for your dog is crucial to keeping them healthy and happy. While it’s tempting to share table scraps with your furry friend, always double-check if the food is safe for them before offering a bite. When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s diet remains balanced and free from harmful foods. By sticking to healthy, dog-friendly snacks, you can provide your pet with a variety of safe treats that support their overall well-being.