It’s a common scenario for dog owners: those pleading puppy eyes staring up at you while you’re enjoying your meal. It’s tempting to share, and sometimes, a little nibble of human food seems harmless. While sharing is caring, it’s crucial to understand that dogs have unique nutritional needs and digestive systems that differ from ours. Not all human foods are beneficial, or even safe, for our canine companions.
The good news is that many wholesome human foods are perfectly safe and even healthy for dogs in moderation. These can serve as excellent treats, adding variety and nutritional boosts to their regular diets. Whether you’re seeking healthy training rewards or simply want to supplement your dog’s meals with whole foods, knowing the best options is key. Here’s a guide to some of the best and safest human foods you can share with your dog, ensuring they are both happy and healthy.
Important Note: Moderation is vital. Even healthy human foods should only constitute around 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake, treating them as supplemental snacks, not meal replacements. Always introduce new foods gradually and in small quantities to observe for any digestive upset or allergic reactions. If your dog shows any adverse reaction to a new food, discontinue feeding it and consult your veterinarian immediately.
It’s also critical to be aware of foods that are toxic to dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) provides a comprehensive list of toxic foods on their website. If you suspect your dog has ingested something poisonous, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center without delay.
1. Apples: A Crunchy and Nutritious Treat
Apples are a fantastic crunchy snack that most dogs love. They are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Just remember to remove the seeds and core before offering apples to your dog, as apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which is toxic.
Apples are a good source of:
- Vitamin A: Essential for immune system function, bone growth, healthy skin and coat, and vision maintenance.
- Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, and support cardiovascular health.
- Fiber: Crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system, promoting regularity and preventing constipation.
2. Bananas: Potassium-Rich and Easy to Digest
Bananas are a soft, sweet treat that’s especially beneficial for senior dogs or those with dental issues as they are easy to chew and swallow. They offer a range of health advantages and are a good source of energy.
Bananas are rich in:
- Fiber: Aids in healthy digestion and can help regulate bowel movements.
- Folate (Vitamin B9): Important for healthy cell growth and development.
- Lectin: May contribute to improved blood sugar control and intestinal health.
- Potassium: Essential for maintaining proper fluid balance, nerve function, and kidney health.
- Tryptophan: An essential amino acid that plays a role in regulating sleep cycles, appetite, mood, and pain perception.
- Vitamin C: An immune-boosting vitamin and antioxidant.
3. Cooked Beef: A Protein Powerhouse
Cooked beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein for dogs. Protein is vital for muscle development and repair, energy production, and numerous bodily functions. When feeding beef to your dog, ensure it is thoroughly cooked to eliminate the risk of bacterial contamination. Opting for grass-fed beef, when available, can provide a healthier fat profile with more beneficial fatty acids compared to grain-fed beef.
Beef provides:
- Essential Amino Acids: Beef contains all the essential amino acids dogs need, which are the building blocks of protein and must be obtained from their diet.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Beef is a good source of B vitamins, iron, zinc, and selenium, all of which are important for overall health.
4. Blueberries: Antioxidant-Rich Berries
Blueberries are small but mighty in terms of nutrition. These berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a fantastic healthy treat for dogs and humans alike. Their vibrant color is a clue to their high antioxidant content.
Blueberries are loaded with:
- Antioxidants: Help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases and age-related cognitive decline.
- Vitamin C: Supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant.
- Vitamin K: Essential for blood clotting and bone health.
- Vitamin A: Important for vision, immune function, and cell growth.
5. Carrots: Crunchy Dental Chews
Carrots are a versatile and healthy snack for dogs. Their crunchy texture offers a natural way to help clean teeth by scraping away plaque and tartar as your dog chews. Carrots are also a good source of vitamins and fiber.
Carrots provide:
- Vitamin A: Supports vision, immune function, and skin health.
- Fiber: Promotes healthy digestion and can contribute to feelings of fullness, aiding in weight management.
Frozen or chilled carrots can also be soothing and helpful for teething puppies, providing a safe and satisfying chewing outlet that can ease gum discomfort. However, always cut carrots into appropriately sized pieces to prevent choking, especially for smaller dogs or puppies.
6. Unseasoned Cauliflower: Nutrient-Dense and Low-Calorie
Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable that offers a wide range of nutrients while being low in calories. It’s a great way to add extra vitamins and minerals to your dog’s diet, but it should be given in moderation due to its potential to cause gas. Always serve cauliflower plain and unseasoned, either raw or cooked.
Cauliflower is a source of:
- Fiber: Supports digestive health.
- Antioxidants: Helps protect against cell damage.
- Folate: Important for cell growth and development.
- Pantothenic Acid: A B vitamin involved in energy metabolism.
- Potassium: Essential for fluid balance and nerve function.
- Magnesium: Important for muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation.
- Manganese: Involved in bone formation, blood clotting, and antioxidant defenses.
- Phosphorus: Works with calcium to build and maintain strong bones and teeth.
- Choline: Important for brain health and nerve function.
- Sulforaphane: A compound with potential anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Vitamins C, K, and B6: Essential vitamins with various roles in overall health.
7. Celery: A Low-Fat, Breath-Freshening Snack
If your dog is watching their waistline, celery can be a great low-calorie treat option. It’s low in fat and provides a satisfying crunch. Celery is also thought to help freshen dog breath, which is a bonus for owners!
Celery contains:
- Fiber: Promotes digestive health.
- Vitamins A, C, and K: Essential vitamins with various health benefits.
- Folate: Important for cell growth.
- Potassium: Supports fluid balance.
- Manganese: Promotes healthy metabolism.
Like carrots, celery can pose a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs. Always chop celery into small, bite-sized pieces before giving it to your dog.
8. Cooked, Unseasoned Chicken: Gentle on the Stomach
Plain, cooked chicken is often recommended by veterinarians for dogs experiencing digestive upset. It’s easily digestible, high in protein, and low in fat, making it a gentle option for sensitive stomachs. It can be offered as a supplement to their regular kibble or as a bland meal during recovery. However, chicken should be given as a treat or supplement, not as the primary food source, as dogs need a balanced diet beyond just meat. Never give your dog cooked chicken bones, as they can splinter and cause serious damage to their gastrointestinal tract.
Chicken provides:
- High-Quality Protein: Essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Easily Digestible: Gentle on the digestive system, especially when boiled and unseasoned.
9. Cucumbers: Hydrating and Refreshing
Similar to celery, cucumbers are a low-calorie, sodium-free, and fat-free crunchy treat. They are mostly water, making them a hydrating snack, especially during warmer months. Many dogs enjoy the cool, crisp texture of cucumbers.
Cucumbers are hydrating and provide:
- Low Calories: A great option for weight-conscious dogs.
- Hydration: High water content helps keep dogs hydrated.
Like celery and carrots, cucumbers should be cut into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking hazards.
10. Cooked, Unseasoned Eggs: Protein and Vitamin Rich
Cooked eggs are a nutritional powerhouse for dogs. They are an excellent source of protein and packed with various vitamins and minerals. Eggs can be scrambled, hard-boiled, or cooked in other ways, as long as they are cooked thoroughly and served plain, without seasonings. Raw eggs should be avoided due to the risk of salmonella contamination.
Eggs are rich in:
- High-Quality Protein: Essential for muscle health.
- Vitamins A, B, D, and K: Important vitamins for various bodily functions.
- Selenium: An antioxidant that supports thyroid function and immune health.
- Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Zinc: Important for immune function, wound healing, and cell growth.
11. Cooked, Unseasoned Fish (Salmon and Sardines): Omega-3 Boost
Cooked fish, especially fatty fish like salmon and sardines, are excellent sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are beneficial for skin and coat health, joint health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. Sardines have the added benefit of containing soft, edible bones that provide a good source of calcium.
Important Note: Always remove bones from fish (except for sardines) before feeding them to your dog, as they can be a choking hazard or cause internal injuries. Fish should always be fully cooked and offered in moderation, no more than two servings per week, due to potential mercury content and to maintain a balanced diet.
Fish provides:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Beneficial for skin, coat, joints, and brain health.
- High-Quality Protein: Essential for muscle health.
- Calcium (from Sardine bones): Important for bone health.
12. Green Beans: Low-Calorie and Fiber-Rich
Green beans are a top choice for overweight dogs because they are very low in calories and fat while being a good source of fiber. They can help dogs feel full and satisfied without adding extra pounds. Green beans can be served cooked, steamed, or even frozen as a crunchy, refreshing treat.
Green beans offer:
- Low Calories and Fat: Ideal for weight management.
- Fiber: Promotes digestive health and satiety.
- Vitamin C: An immune-boosting vitamin.
13. Mango: Tropical Sweetness in Moderation
Mango is a delicious tropical fruit that’s safe for dogs in moderation. It’s high in fiber and various vitamins. However, mangoes are also high in natural sugars, so they should be given as an occasional treat. Always remove the pit and skin before giving mango to your dog, as the pit can be a choking hazard and both the pit and peel can contain compounds that may be harmful to dogs.
Mangoes contain:
- Fiber: Supports digestion.
- Vitamins A, B6, C, and E: Important vitamins with various health benefits.
14. Unsalted Peanuts and Peanut Butter (Xylitol-Free): A Nutty Treat
Unsalted peanuts are safe for dogs and provide healthy fats and protein. Peanut butter, especially natural, unsalted varieties, can be a tasty and engaging treat, perfect for stuffing into toys or using as a training reward. However, peanuts and peanut butter are high in fat, so they should be given in moderation to prevent weight gain or pancreatitis. Crucially, always ensure that peanut butter does not contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs.
Peanuts and peanut butter provide:
- Healthy Fats: Beneficial for skin and coat health and energy.
- Protein: Important for muscle health.
- Vitamins B and E: Beneficial vitamins.
- Fiber: Supports digestive health.
15. Pumpkin (Plain, Canned or Cooked): Digestive Aid
Plain pumpkin, whether canned (pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling) or cooked fresh pumpkin, is a fantastic addition to a dog’s diet, especially for digestive health. It’s rich in nutrients and soluble fiber, making it beneficial for both diarrhea and constipation. Pumpkin is also a good source of prebiotics, which support beneficial gut bacteria.
Pumpkin is packed with:
- Soluble Fiber: Helps regulate digestion, alleviating both diarrhea and constipation.
- Vitamins A, C, and E: Important vitamins.
- Minerals (Iron and Potassium): Essential minerals.
- Prebiotics: Support a healthy gut microbiome.
16. Cooked, Unseasoned Turkey: Lean Protein Source
Similar to chicken, cooked turkey is a good source of lean protein for dogs. Always ensure turkey is fully cooked, unseasoned, and skinless and boneless before giving it to your dog. Like chicken, turkey should be offered as a supplement or treat, not as the primary food source.
Turkey provides:
- Lean Protein: Essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Easily Digestible: Gentle on the stomach when plain and cooked.
17. Watermelon (Seedless, Rindless): Hydrating Summer Fruit
Watermelon is a refreshing and hydrating fruit, especially enjoyable during hot weather. It’s a good source of vitamins and mostly water. Always remove the seeds and rind before giving watermelon to your dog, as seeds can cause intestinal upset and the rind is hard to digest and could be a choking hazard.
Watermelon is hydrating and contains:
- High Water Content: Helps keep dogs hydrated.
- Vitamins A, C, and B6: Important vitamins.
18. Cooked White Rice: Bland and Easily Digestible
Cooked white rice is often recommended by veterinarians as part of a bland diet for dogs with upset stomachs. It’s easy to digest and can help firm up stools. However, rice can cause a spike in blood sugar, so it should be given in small amounts, especially to diabetic dogs. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on rice consumption for dogs with diabetes.
White rice is:
- Easily Digestible: Gentle on the digestive system.
- Bland: Good for settling upset stomachs.
19. Plain Yogurt (Probiotic Benefits): Digestive Support
Plain yogurt, especially varieties with live and active cultures, can be a healthy treat for dogs. The probiotics in yogurt can help support a healthy digestive system. However, some dogs are lactose intolerant, so start with a small amount to see how your dog reacts. Avoid yogurts with added sugars or artificial sweeteners, particularly xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Plain yogurt provides:
- Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria that can support gut health.
- Calcium: Important for bone health.
- Protein: Contributes to overall protein intake.
CareCredit Credit Card for Pet Wellness
Maintaining your dog’s health and well-being is a top priority. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for preventative care and addressing any health concerns promptly. The CareCredit credit card can be a helpful tool for managing pet care expenses, covering routine vet visits, emergency care, surgeries, and more.* Use the Acceptance Locator to find a veterinarian near you that accepts CareCredit.
Manage your pet’s health journey with ease by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App. Access your account, locate providers, and explore the Well U blog for more informative articles, podcasts, and videos on pet and human health.
Beyond pet care, CareCredit extends to various healthcare needs, including dentistry, vision, cosmetic procedures, and more within their network. Consider CareCredit as a partner in your and your pet’s overall wellness journey.
Expert Reviewer
Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth), V.M.D.
Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth) has been a practicing veterinarian in California since 2001, serving at various pet care facilities. Her most recent role was Medical Director at VCA PetPoint Medical Center and Resort in Irvine. Dr. Wiederkehr is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and achieved board certification as a Diplomate in Canine and Feline Practice by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in 2010.
Author Bio
Abbie Mood is a seasoned freelance writer with over 15 years of experience creating compelling content for diverse clients. Her writing portfolio includes contributions to the American Kennel Club, Marriott Bonvoy, Women’s Health Online, Headspace, and numerous other publications.
