Most pet experts agree that giving your dog “human” foods is not advisable. Sharing our processed, high-in-sugar-and-fat-foods with our pets could lead to them developing serious health issues like pancreatitis and obesity. However, there are plenty of foods that we can share with our dogs that are not only good for us, but good for our pooches, too.
Here is a list of 39 everyday foods that are safe, and even healthy, to give your dog.
1. Salt-free chicken broth – If you have a picky eater, adding some chicken broth to his meal is a great way to entice him to eat more. And it’s great for softening the food, too. It’s also good for dogs that are dehydrated or having diarrhea. Since it is basically chicken-flavored water, the taste may encourage them to drink. If your dog is eating white rice because of an upset stomach, add chicken broth to it to make it more flavorful.
2. Rice – This is good to feed when your dog is under the weather and needs a bland meal. There are a variety of different types of rice. Brown rice is a little higher in protein and lower in fat when compared to white rice. White or instant rice is an easily digestible carbohydrate, which makes it a good source of energy when your dog is sick or if you have an older dog. Just make sure you don’t add any salt or seasoning.
3. Eggs –They are dollar for dollar one of the most cost-effective protein sources available. And they also contain vitamins and minerals. There is some debate regarding whether or not they should be offered raw or cooked as a dog’s snack. Some are concerned about salmonella, but it is rarer in dogs than in humans. If you’re uncomfortable with feeding your dog raw eggs, boil them. You can give your dog the shells, too. They are edible and nutritious for canines.
4. Bacon – In small amounts only, bacon can be fed to your dog. But remember, bacon is high in fat, nitrates and nitrites – which are preservatives used in smoked meats – and salt. These things are bad for humans, but even worse for dogs.
5. Turkey and chicken – As long as you take off the skin and debone it, plain, white turkey and chicken meat are excellent sources of protein for your dog. They also make a good meal replacement if you’re in a pinch and out of dog food.
6. Salmon – This is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids, which are responsible for keeping your dog’s coat healthy and shiny, as well as supporting your dog’s immune system. However, it is very important that you do not feed your dog raw salmon, as it can make him very sick. Save the skin after you’re done cooking it and add it to your dog’s food for a healthy boost.
7. Tuna – Dogs can eat tuna, too! And it’s full of healthy protein, vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids.
8. Peanut butter – A favorite treat of many canines, and some cats. Not only is peanut butter a good source of protein, it also contains heart-healthy fats, vitamin B, niacin and vitamin E. Stuff peanut butter into a Kong to keep your dog busy for hours. But please choose raw, unsalted peanut butter.
9. Plain yogurt – It’s high in calcium and protein, but make sure to only choose yogurts that do not contain artificial sweeteners or added sugars. Yogurts with active bacteria can act as a probiotic and are good for your dog’s digestive system.
10. Oatmeal – This is a great source of soluble fiber, which can be especially beneficial to senior dogs with bowel irregularity issues. It is also a great alternate grain for dogs allergic to wheat. Make sure to cook oatmeal before serving it to your dog, and do not add any sugar or flavor additives.
11. Brewer’s yeast – This is the yeast that’s left over from making alcohol. Dogs love the tangy taste of brewer’s yeast, and it’s full of B vitamins, which are good for skin, coat and carbohydrate metabolism. Make sure you’re using brewer’s yeast, not baking yeast, which will make your dog sick. Brewer’s yeast can also spice up your dog’s appetite. Sprinkling just a little on the food of a picky eater will convince the pickiest of dogs to eat their kibble.
11. Peppermint – Humans use it to freshen their breath and settle their upset stomachs, and it works just the same for canines. Try using it as an ingredient if you make your own homemade dog biscuits.
12. Parsley – This herb has long been thought to improve doggie breath, so the next time you are baking treats for your dog, try adding a few tablespoons of chopped parsley for added flavor and color. Parsley can also be a good source of calcium, potassium and beta-carotene.
13. Cottage cheese – Cottage cheese is high in protein and calcium, and it’s fairly bland, so it can be a good way to add some extra protein to your dog’s diet. Cottage cheese is a dairy product and some dogs don’t do well with dairy, so make sure you start with just a small amount.
14. Sweet Potatoes – Take off the skin and you have a superfood that will provide your dog with vitamins E, A, B-6 and C, as well as calcium, iron, folate, potassium, copper, thiamine and iron.
15. Broccoli – This is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables that dogs can eat. When you cook broccoli, indole, a cancer-fighting enzyme, is released. In fact, more than 33 cancer-preventing compounds are found in broccoli. Broccoli also contains several phytochemicals that stop carcinogens from forming and prevent them from attacking cells. They also build enzymes to break down carcinogens. In addition to broccoli’s nutrient-rich and cancer-fighting properties, it also features sulforphane, a compound that helps boost the immune system. But don’t go overboard – too much broccoli can reduce thyroid function when fed to your dog in large quantities.
16. Celery – This is an excellent resource to improve your dog’s heart health and may prevent cancer. Celery is rich in calcium, potassium, phosphorous, sodium, iron and vitamins A, B and C. The phytochemical 3-n-butyl phthalide, which gives celery its signature taste and smell, is a powerful tumor-fighting agent. Celery is also reputed to reduce nervousness in animals and act as an acid neutralizer.
17. Green Beans – These are low calorie and nutritious, which is a win-win for your dog. Plus, he gets a boost of vitamins A, C and K, calcium, copper, fiber, folic acid, iron, niacin, manganese, potassium, riboflavin and thiamine, as well as beta-carotene. Did we mention the omega-3 fatty acids? You simply cannot go wrong with feeding your dog fresh green beans.
18. Peas – These little green pods contain thiamine, phosphorous and potassium, and can be added to your dog’s regular food for an added boost of nutrition.
19. Zucchini – An excellent source of calcium, potassium, beta-carotene and folate. Try grating some raw zucchini over your dog’s dry food for an extra-crunchy boost.
20. Summer squash – This summer staple is great for the digestive system. If he is going through a bout of constipation, feed him some of your fresh summer squash.
21. Spinach – Another superfood, spinach has the same powerful affects on your dog’s health as it does on yours. It’s high in iron and helps fend off inflammatory and cardiovascular issues, as well as canine cancer.
22. Kale – It’s all the rage these days and it’s also really good for your dog. You can feed it to him raw or cooked.
23. Beets – They have a long, healthy list of benefits, but are best for detoxing the liver and keeping it healthy.
24. Asparagus – When cut into bite-sized pieces, asparagus makes a healthy veggie option for your dog because of its vitamin K, A, B1, B2, C and E, along with the folate, iron, copper, fiber, manganese and potassium that’s found in it.
25. Brussels sprouts – These are great for dogs because they contain vitamins A, B1, B6, K and G, as well as manganese, folate, fiber and potassium. Another bonus to feeding your dog Brussels sprouts? Maybe if your kid sees your dog eating his Brussels sprouts, she’ll hop on board and eat them, too.
26. Raw carrots – Your dog needs antioxidants just like we do to fight off free radicals, and carrots are an excellent way to provide your dog with this nutritional boost. They are also high in insoluble and soluble fiber, which helps promote intestinal health.
27. Corn – This carb will provide your dog with a boost of energy. As long as it is not on the cob, and does not have seasoning, like salt, it can be fed to your dog in small amounts.
28. Apples – You know what they say about apples keeping the doctor away, but did you know that they are a great source of vitamins A and C, and fiber for your dog? Before you give your pooch apple, make sure it has no seeds. They contain cyanide.
29. Pears – The apple’s cousin is a great source of fiber and vitamin C. But the same rule for feeding your pooch apples applies to pears – take out the seeds first.
30. Cranberries – Adding cranberries to your dog’s diet also has several benefits. Cranberries are rich in vitamins including A, B1, B2, C and many nutrients, plus they are full of minerals and antioxidants. Cranberries are also an excellent supplement to your dog’s diet for the promotion of urinary tract health.
31. Pumpkin (raw or in a can) – Pumpkins aren’t just good for carving at Halloween; they’re also a healthy food to feed your dog. If your dog is prone to tummy trouble, and experiences diarrhea or constipation, a diet that includes puréed pumpkin might improve his intestinal health. Pumpkin softens stool, which aids dogs who suffer from digestion problems. The fiber contained in pumpkin also absorbs water, which helps alleviate diarrhea.
32. Blueberries – These little berries pack a real punch against canine cancer and heart disease. They also contain tannins, which help prevent urinary tract infections.
33. Strawberries – Just like their blue cousins, these red berries are full of antioxidants, fiber and vitamin C. As an added bonus, they also contain enzymes that can help whiten your dog’s teeth. Just don’t feed him too many strawberries, because they are high in sugar, which is bad for dogs.
34. Blackberries – Blackberries round out the holy trinity of healthy berries for your dog, along with strawberries and blueberries. Like those others, blackberries are loaded with antioxidants to fight free radicals in your dog, and also have plenty of fiber and vitamins, too.
35. Watermelon – Who doesn’t love watermelon? Packed full of lycopene, your dog will love this sweet and juicy treat.
36. Cantaloupe – That’s right, you can feed your dog this delicious summer delight. The vitamins help maintain good eyesight. Cantaloupe also has vitamin A and beta-carotene, which help reduce the chances of canine cancer by helping to prevent cell damage.
37. Pineapple – This tropical fruit is not only good for dogs, it can stop your dog from eating his stool! Serve it fresh or frozen – your dog will thank you either way.
38. Oranges – They are rich in folate, thiamine, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Oranges also contain flavonoids, which can strengthen your dog’s immune system and connective tissues. Oranges also protect against cancer and fight off viral infections.
39. Bananas – These yellow beauties contain loads of amino acids, electrolytes, minerals, vitamins B6 and C, potassium, fiber and manganese. They are best for active and working dogs that need to keep their energy up throughout the day.
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