Have you been wondering “Is human food bad for dogs?” Although we humans try to keep our dogs on their canine diets, we sometimes just can’t resist slipping them an occasional human morsel. If you’ve been wondering what human food is safe for dogs, you certainly do not want to miss this article.
Let’s Explore the Best Human Food for Dogs That Are Safe and Healthy for Our Canine Friends
Peanut butter
The first on our list of best human food for dogs is peanut butter. As a favorite treat for many canines, peanut butter is an excellent source of protein, heart-healthy fats, vitamin B, niacin, and vitamin E. For a stimulating activity that will keep your dog busy for hours, consider stuffing peanut butter into a Kong dog toy. Be sure to choose raw, unsalted peanut butter.
Note: Be absolutely sure that you’re not using sugar-free or “lite” peanut butter with artificial sweeteners, particularly xylitol, as these substances are incredibly toxic to dogs.
Cooked chicken
As one of the most common ingredients in pet food, cooked chicken is another human food good for dogs. Cooked chicken may be slipped into the bowl along with your dog’s regular food to add extra protein and a touch of spice. In addition to being a savory treat, cooked chicken also makes a healthy meal replacement if you’re in a pinch and out of dog food.
Cheese
Cheese makes a fantastic treat for your dog as long as she isn’t lactose intolerant, which a small percentage of dogs are. Make sure to monitor your dog’s reaction after feeding her small amounts of cheese. Opt for low- or reduced-fat varieties and don’t overfeed, as many cheese types can be high in fat. Cottage cheese is typically a good choice for dogs.
Baby carrots
The fourth-best human food for dogs on our list is baby carrots. Baby carrots are a low-calorie treat that’s great for your dog’s teeth. Additionally, carrots are high in fiber, beta carotene and vitamin A. Carrots may be eaten raw or cooked. You may also feed your dog regular carrots, but be sure to slice them into small bite-size pieces to help prevent your dog from choking.
Yogurt
Another safe human food for dogs is yogurt. Yogurt is high in calcium and protein, making it a great treat for canines. Furthermore, yogurts with active bacteria can act as a probiotic and are good for your dog’s dog’s digestive system.
Keep in mind that you should choose only yogurts that do not contain artificial sweeteners or added sugars. Greek yogurt is typically the best choice for dogs, as it has less lactose than regular yogurt. You may also feed your dog kefir as long as it’s plain and unflavored.
Salmon
A good source of omega 3 fatty acids, salmon helps keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny as well as supports your dog’s immune system. There are multiple ways to add salmon to your dog’s diet. Consider adding cooked salmon to your dog’s dish, pouring salmon oil on her food bowl, or slipping him some of your unwanted fish skins.
Pumpkin
The seventh-most-healthy human food for dogs is pumpkin. A member of the squash family, pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, beta carotene, and vitamin A. Moreover, pumpkin can help keep the GI tract moving as well as aid with digestive issues. Both fresh pumpkin and canned pumpkin make excellent dog treats as long as it’s plain with no added sweeteners.
Eggs
Scrambling up an egg for your pup is a great way to give her diet a protein boost. In addition to being high in protein, eggs are also a fantastic source of easily digestible riboflavin and selenium. To avoid the risk of salmonella, be sure to thoroughly cook eggs. Alternatives to scrambling eggs are boiling and poaching. Just make sure to avoid adding seasoning.
Green beans
Another healthy human food for dogs is green beans. Green beans are a source of protein, calcium, vitamin K and iron. Raw green beans and cooked green beans make a great treat for your dog since they are filling and low in calories. Keep in mind to serve only beans that have no added salt or seasoning.
Apple slices
Sliced apples are high in fiber, vitamin A and vitamin C, making them a fantastic treat for your pup. Additionally, apple slices are known to help clean residue off a dog’s teeth, which, in turn, helps freshen her breath. Before feeding your dog apple slices, make sure to take out the seeds and the core, as these can be choking hazards.
Oatmeal
The last best human food for dogs is oatmeal. Because cooked oatmeal is a great source of soluble fiber, it is especially beneficial to senior dogs with bowel irregularity issues. It is also a fabulous alternate grain for dogs allergic to wheat. Make sure to cook oatmeal before serving it to your dog and select only oatmeal that has no added sugar or flavor additives.
This is just a shortlist of human food for dogs that are healthy and safe. Remember to feed these foods in small amounts when you first introduce them to your dog’s diet. If your dog experiences any sort of reaction, immediately consult a veterinarian.
Before giving your dog any human food, do some research to make sure it’s safe. Never feed your dog toxic human items such as chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, yeast dough, artificial sweeteners, macadamia nuts, avocados, alcohol, or coffee. Consult your veterinarian with any questions you might have on what human food is safe and what is harmful.
What is your dog’s favorite food? Share it with us in the comments.
