It’s a common scenario for dog owners: those pleading eyes at the dinner table. While sharing is caring, human food isn’t always the best choice for our canine companions. Dogs have unique digestive systems and nutritional needs that differ from humans. However, the good news is that many human foods are perfectly safe and even beneficial for dogs when given in moderation.
As pet parents, we want to provide the best Food For Dogs, ensuring their health and happiness. This guide will explore a range of dog-friendly foods, including meats, fruits, and vegetables, that can serve as healthy treats or supplements to your dog’s regular diet. Discover delicious and nutritious options that are good for your dog and offer peace of mind for you.
Important Note: Treats, even healthy ones, should only constitute about 10% of your dog’s daily diet. Moderation is key. Always observe your dog’s reaction to new foods. If any adverse reaction occurs, discontinue the food and consult your veterinarian immediately.
Certain human foods are toxic to dogs. For a comprehensive list of foods to avoid, please refer to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) website. In case of suspected ingestion of toxic substances, 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 enjoy. Remember to remove the seeds and core before serving, as apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be harmful in large quantities. Apples are a great source of:
- Vitamin A: Essential for immune function, bone growth, and healthy skin and coat. It also plays a vital role in maintaining good vision.
- Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that can reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, and support cardiovascular health.
- Fiber: Crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing constipation or diarrhea.
2. Bananas: Potassium-Rich and Easy to Digest
Bananas are a soft and sweet treat, particularly suitable for senior dogs or those with dental sensitivities. They are packed with health-boosting nutrients, including:
- Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
- Folate (Vitamin B9): Supports healthy cell growth and development.
- Lectin: May contribute to improved blood sugar control and intestinal health.
- Potassium: Important for maintaining fluid balance, healthy kidney function, and nerve and muscle function.
- Tryptophan: An essential amino acid involved in regulating sleep cycles, appetite, mood, and pain perception.
- Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system and acts as an antioxidant.
3. Cooked Beef: A Protein Powerhouse
Cooked beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, providing all the essential amino acids dogs need for muscle development and overall health. Opt for lean cuts and ensure it’s thoroughly cooked to eliminate bacteria. Grass-fed beef is preferable as it contains a better profile of healthy fatty acids compared to grain-fed beef.
4. Blueberries: Antioxidant-Rich Berries
Blueberries are small but mighty, loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. These berries are a nutritional powerhouse, offering:
- Vitamins C, K, and A: These vitamins contribute to overall health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and age-related health issues due to their antioxidant properties.
- Antioxidants: Blueberries are particularly rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and support cognitive function in aging dogs.
5. Carrots: Dental Health and Vitamin A
Carrots are a crunchy and satisfying treat that can also contribute to your dog’s dental health. Chewing on raw carrots can help scrape plaque off their teeth. Carrots are also a good source of Vitamin A, beneficial for vision, skin, and immune function. For teething puppies, chilled or frozen carrots can offer soothing relief for sore gums. However, always cut carrots into appropriate bite-sized pieces to prevent choking, especially for smaller breeds and puppies.
6. Unseasoned Cauliflower: Nutrient-Dense and Low-Calorie
Cauliflower is a highly nutritious vegetable, low in calories and packed with essential nutrients:
- Fiber: Promotes digestive health.
- Antioxidants: Fights free radicals and supports cellular health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Cauliflower is a good source of folate, pantothenic acid, potassium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, choline, sulforaphane, and vitamins C, K, and B6.
While cauliflower offers numerous health benefits, it can cause gas in some dogs. Therefore, offer it in small quantities and ensure it’s plain, cooked or raw, without any seasonings.
7. Celery: Low-Fat and Breath-Freshening
If your dog needs to shed a few pounds, celery can be a great low-calorie treat option. It’s low in fat and provides:
- Fiber: Aids digestion and promotes fullness.
- Vitamins A, C, and K: Essential vitamins for various bodily functions.
- Folate, Potassium, and Manganese: Support healthy metabolism.
- Breath Freshening: Celery may help freshen your dog’s breath due to its high water content and texture.
Like carrots and cucumbers, celery can pose a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs. Cut celery into small, bite-sized pieces before offering it to your dog.
8. Cooked, Unseasoned Chicken: Gentle on the Stomach
Plain, boiled chicken is often recommended by veterinarians for dogs with upset stomachs. It’s easily digestible, high in protein, and low in fat. Chicken is a good option as a bland diet component or a tasty treat. However, it shouldn’t be the primary food source as dogs require a balanced diet beyond just meat. Never give dogs cooked chicken bones as they can splinter and cause serious damage to their digestive tract.
9. Cucumbers: Hydrating and Refreshing
Cucumbers are another low-calorie, hydrating treat option for dogs, especially during warmer months. They are sodium and fat-free and offer a satisfying crunch. Like celery, cucumbers can be a choking hazard, so always cut them into bite-sized pieces.
10. Cooked, Unseasoned Eggs: Protein and Vitamin Rich
Cooked eggs are a nutritional powerhouse for dogs, providing:
- High-Quality Protein: Essential for muscle building and repair.
- Vitamins A, B, D, and K: Important vitamins for various bodily functions.
- Selenium, Calcium, and Zinc: Essential minerals for overall health.
Always cook eggs thoroughly before feeding them to your dog, as raw eggs may contain salmonella. Scrambled or hard-boiled eggs can be a great addition to your dog’s diet as a treat or supplement.
11. Cooked, Unseasoned Fish (Salmon, Sardines): Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish, particularly salmon and sardines, are excellent sources of protein, amino acids, and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are known for promoting healthy skin and coat, supporting brain function, and reducing inflammation. Sardines have the added benefit of soft, edible bones that provide a calcium boost.
Important: Always remove bones from fish (except for sardines with their soft bones) before feeding them to your dog to prevent choking or internal injuries. Cook fish thoroughly and limit fish intake to no more than two servings per week due to potential heavy metal content and to maintain dietary balance.
12. Green Beans: Low-Calorie and Fiber-Rich
Green beans are an excellent choice for overweight dogs due to their low calorie and fat content. They are also a good source of fiber and vitamin C. You can offer cooked green beans or even frozen green beans as a crunchy, refreshing snack.
13. Mango: Tropical and Vitamin-Packed
Mango is a delicious tropical fruit that is safe and healthy for dogs in moderation. It’s rich in:
- Fiber: Aids digestion.
- Vitamins A, B6, C, and E: Essential vitamins for overall health and immune function.
Always remove the pit and skin of the mango before giving it to your dog, as they can be harmful and difficult to digest. Due to its natural sugars, mango should be given in moderation to prevent stomach upset.
14. Unsalted Peanuts and Peanut Butter: Healthy Fats and Protein
Unsalted peanuts are safe for dogs in moderation, providing healthy fats and protein. However, excessive fat intake can lead to weight gain or pancreatitis in dogs. Peanut butter, in moderation, offers the added benefits of vitamins B and E and fiber, supporting cardiovascular and digestive health. Crucially, ensure that the peanut butter is xylitol-free, as xylitol is a sugar substitute that is highly toxic to dogs. Always check the ingredient label carefully.
15. Pumpkin: Digestive Aid and Nutrient Boost
Pumpkin is a nutritional powerhouse for dogs, especially beneficial for digestive health. It’s rich in:
- Vitamins A, C, and E: Essential vitamins.
- Minerals (Iron and Potassium): Important minerals for various bodily functions.
- Soluble Fiber: Helps regulate digestion, alleviating both diarrhea and constipation.
- Prebiotics: Supports beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy digestive tract.
Pumpkin is low in calories and can be a valuable addition to your dog’s regular food. When buying canned pumpkin, ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can be harmful to dogs.
16. Cooked, Unseasoned Turkey: Lean Protein Source
Similar to chicken, cooked turkey is a lean and excellent source of protein for dogs. Always remove the skin, bones, and excess fat before offering turkey to your dog. Ensure it’s thoroughly cooked and unseasoned.
17. Watermelon: Hydrating Summer Treat
Watermelon is a refreshing and hydrating fruit, especially perfect during hot weather. It’s a good source of vitamins A, C, and B6. Always remove the seeds and rind before giving watermelon to your dog, as seeds can cause intestinal blockage, and the rind is hard to digest.
18. Cooked White Rice: Bland Diet Staple
Cooked white rice is often recommended by veterinarians as part of a bland diet for dogs experiencing digestive upset. It’s easily digestible and can help firm up stools. However, rice can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, so dogs with diabetes should only consume it in small amounts and under veterinary guidance.
19. Plain Yogurt: Probiotic Benefits
Plain yogurt, without added sugars or artificial sweeteners, can be a healthy treat for dogs. The probiotics in yogurt can support a healthy digestive system by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. However, some dogs are lactose intolerant, so start with a small amount to observe tolerance. Avoid yogurts with xylitol, artificial sweeteners, or added sugars.
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Expert Reviewer
Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth), V.M.D.
Dr. Kathy Wiederkehr (Wentworth) is a veterinarian with extensive experience in pet care facilities since 2001. She has served as medical director at VCA PetPoint Medical Center and Resort and is board-certified in Canine and Feline Practice by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. She is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.
Author Bio
Abbie Mood is a seasoned freelance writer with over 15 years of experience creating compelling content for diverse clients, including the American Kennel Club, Marriott Bonvoy, and Women’s Health Online.
