We’ve all been there: enjoying a family dinner when your furry friend appears, hoping for a taste. It’s tempting to share, but is it safe? Can dogs eat table food? The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no.
While most table food is unsuitable for dogs, some human foods are safe and even beneficial when prepared correctly. This guide dives deep into what table food dogs can eat, the dangers of sharing scraps, and how to include your dog in mealtime safely.
The Dangers of Feeding Dogs Table Scraps
Generally, feeding your dog table scraps is a bad idea. It can lead to several health and behavioral problems, including:
- Weight Gain: Human food is often high in calories and unhealthy fats, contributing to canine obesity. Remember, dogs have different nutritional needs than humans.
- Choking Hazards: Bones, especially cooked poultry bones, can splinter and cause choking or internal damage.
- Digestive Problems: Many human foods contain ingredients that can upset a dog’s stomach, leading to vomiting and diarrhea. Excessive fat can even cause pancreatitis.
- Toxicity: Certain foods are downright toxic to dogs and should be avoided.
- Behavioral Issues: Feeding table scraps can create a begging habit, making mealtimes unpleasant.
Weight Gain in Detail
Dogs have different digestive systems and nutritional needs compared to humans. Human foods are often packed with empty calories that can lead to unhealthy weight gain without providing the necessary vitamins and minerals. Many dogs get their complete nutrition from balanced kibble, so extra treats from the table are unnecessary and potentially harmful to their health.
Understanding Choking Hazards
Never give your dog bones from human meals, especially cooked bones from poultry like chicken or turkey. These bones can splinter and get lodged in your dog’s throat or digestive tract, leading to serious complications.
The Risk of Digestive Problems
Many human foods are loaded with ingredients that can wreak havoc on a dog’s sensitive digestive system. High levels of salt and fat, common in many dishes, can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, pancreatitis. The American Kennel Club notes that emergency vet visits for pancreatitis spike after holidays like Thanksgiving due to well-meaning guests slipping fatty foods to dogs.
Identifying Toxic Foods
Certain foods are extremely dangerous and should never be given to dogs:
- Chocolate, Coffee, and Caffeine: These contain methylxanthines, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and even death. Dark chocolate is more toxic than milk chocolate.
- Grapes and Raisins: The exact toxin is unknown, but these fruits can cause kidney failure.
- Nuts: Many nuts, including almonds, pecans, and walnuts, are high in fat and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and pancreatitis.
- Onions, Garlic, and Chives: These can cause gastrointestinal irritation and damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.
- Xylitol: This artificial sweetener, found in gum, candy, and baked goods, can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to liver failure.
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately if your dog ingests any of these foods.
Addressing Behavioral Issues
Giving your dog table scraps even once can create a persistent begging habit. Discourage this behavior by never feeding your dog from your plate. Food should only be offered in their designated feeding area.
What Table Food Can Dogs Eat? Safe Options
While most table scraps are off-limits, some human foods are safe and even nutritious for dogs when prepared correctly. These include:
- Lean Cooked Meats: Plain, skinless, and boneless cooked turkey, beef, pork, or chicken.
- Plain Canned Pumpkin: Not pumpkin pie filling, but 100% pure pumpkin. This is great for digestive health.
- Scrambled Eggs: A good source of protein.
- Peanut Butter: Make sure it doesn’t contain xylitol, a sweetener toxic to dogs.
- Certain Vegetables: Baby carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes are good options.
- Plain Yogurt: Choose a variety without added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Important Considerations:
- Moderation is key. Human food should only constitute a small portion of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
- Preparation matters. Food should be plain, without added salt, spices, or sauces.
- Serve safely. Offer these foods in their dog bowl like normal food, and never from the table.
Keeping Dogs Out of the Kitchen
Preventing access to table scraps is crucial. Here are a few strategies:
- Confine your dog to another room during meal preparation and eating. Provide a comfortable space and a stimulating toy.
- Let your dog play in the backyard, so they won’t be tempted by the aroma of cooking food.
- Consider doggie daycare or boarding for important meals or events.
Once the meal is over and the food is safely stored, your dog can return to the kitchen.
A Simple Howliday Recipe for Dogs
Want to include your dog in holiday festivities without risking their health? Try this easy recipe:
2-Ingredient Frozen Pumpkin Dog Treats
Inspired by Kiki Kane at Rover.com
Ingredients:
- Pumpkin puree (100% pure)
- Nonfat plain yogurt
Instructions:
- Clear a flat space in your freezer.
- Place a silicone mold on a cookie sheet.
- In a bowl, mix equal parts pumpkin puree and yogurt.
- Pour into molds.
- Freeze until solid.
- Un-mold and store in a Tupperware container or plastic bag.
Scrap the Scraps, Spoil the Pup Safely
So, what table food can dogs eat? While most table scraps are dangerous, you can safely share certain human foods in moderation. Focus on lean proteins, plain vegetables, and limited quantities. Remember that avoiding table scraps altogether is safest for your dog’s health and behavior. Instead, treat your dog to special dog-friendly treats or plan a fun outing for them.
By being a responsible pet owner, you can ensure your furry friend enjoys a long, healthy, and happy life, free from the dangers of table scraps!
