What Human Food Can Dogs Eat: A Guide for Pet Owners

What human food can dogs eat? This is a question that many pet owners find themselves asking.

We love our furry friends and want to share everything with them, including our meals!

But hold on! Not all foods are safe for your canine companion.

Determining what human food can dogs eat, which ones provide health benefits, and those that could potentially harm them requires knowledge and understanding. Let’s dive in!

The Intricacies of a Dog’s Diet

Feeding our four-legged friends can sometimes feel like navigating through a minefield, especially when we’re talking about human foods dogs can eat. The dietary needs of dogs are vastly different from ours, and certain food items that seem harmless to us could be dangerous for them.

In essence, knowing what goes into your pet’s bowl isn’t just essential – it might save their life.

What Human Food Can Dogs Eat? Some, But Not Just Any Human Food

Dogs aren’t strictly carnivores – they’re omnivorous by nature, which means some fruits and vegetables offer significant nutritional benefits. For instance, apples provide vitamins vital for boosting your pup’s immunity, while green beans add fiber, aiding digestion. However, not all ‘human’ edibles belong inside those bowls.

Potential Risks: Top 10 Foods Dogs Should Avoid

Ever wonder about the human foods your dogs should avoid? It is critical to recognize which snacks are safe and which can cause severe health issues. Besides enjoying the occasional healthy human food treat alongside commercial dog food, ensuring Fido stays away from potential hazards is equally important. Common ingredients found in everyday meals, such as onions and garlic, pose serious threats if ingested by pups. They cause damage to red blood cells leading to anemia, among other issues.

Chocolate, for instance, is notorious in pet circles due to its toxicity for our canine friends. Dark chocolate can be especially hazardous to dogs as it contains elevated concentrations of theobromine, a compound that may lead to grave digestive issues or even worse.

Beware also of cinnamon. While not fatal in small amounts, large quantities could lower your dog’s blood sugar too much, causing mouth irritation and other complications.

Rank	Dangerous Food	Reason for Toxicity
1	Chocolate and Caffeine	Contains theobromine and caffeine which can cause nervous system damage and heart problems.
2	Grapes and Raisins	Can cause kidney failure in dogs123.
3	Ice Cream	Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, central nervous system depression, difficulty breathing, tremors, abnormal blood acidity.
4	Onions, Garlic, Chives	Can cause gastrointestinal irritation and could lead to red blood cell damage.
5	Macadamia Nuts	Can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors and hyperthermia.
6	Avocado	Contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
7	Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)	Can cause insulin release leading to liver failure. The increase in insulin leads to hypoglycemia (lowered sugar levels).
8	Corn on the Cob	Although corn is not poisonous, the cob can cause blockages in the intestines.
9	Sugar-free Candy and Gum	Often contain xylitol, a sweetener that is dangerous to dogs.
10	Fatty Foods (Sugars, Fats, Salt)	Can lead to pancreatitis, obesity, and other health issues.

Always remember: Safety comes first before diversifying diets. The key lies within balance, maintaining a blend between store-bought canned/bagged kibble along with occasional dollops on dinner plates. Moderation is key when introducing new foods.

10 Safe Fruits for Dogs

Your dog’s diet can be supercharged with the right selection of fruits and vegetables. Canines can gain advantageous nutrients from these edibles that will aid in boosting their immune system. 

For example, dogs absolutely love apples. And guess what? They’re safe too. Apples provide dogs with vitamin C and fiber, among other vital nutrients. However, it’s essential to remove apple seeds before serving them as these contain cyanide which could harm your furry friend.

A word on rotten apples: steer clear from those. Fermentation in decaying apples can lead to alcohol poisoning in dogs. So always ensure you’re feeding fresh ones cut into small bites suitable for their size.

Rank	Fruit	Benefits
1	Bananas	Rich in potassium and vitamin C. They’re also high in fiber.
2	Apples	Low-calorie treats that provide vitamins C and A, potassium, antioxidants, and fiber.
3	Pears	Bursting with vitamins C and K plus lots of fiber.
4	Watermelon	Hydrating and packed with vitamins A and C.
5	Blueberries	High in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K.
6	Strawberries	Contains antioxidants and are high in fiber and vitamin C.
7	Oranges	Good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber but should be served in moderation due to sugar content.
8	Pineapple	Contains bromelain, an enzyme that makes it easier for dogs to absorb proteins.
9	Mango	High in vitamins A, B6, C, and E. They also have alpha and beta-carotene and lots of dietary fiber.
10	Cranberries	Can help combat urinary tract infections in dogs thanks to their acidity.

A Note on Pickles

Oddly enough, pickles fall under the category of fruit! Pickles are generally not recommended for dogs to eat. While cucumbers are safe, pickles are typically made by soaking cucumbers in brine or vinegar, which creates an acidic environment. The main risks of feeding pickles to dogs are gastrointestinal upset and increased sodium intake.

The acidic brine can irritate a dog’s stomach and cause vomiting or diarrhea. Large amounts of sodium from the brine can also be problematic for dogs with heart disease or hypertension. Additionally, spices used to flavor pickles, like garlic, dill, mustard seeds, and onions, can be toxic for dogs. So while not immediately poisonous, it’s best to avoid feeding pickles to dogs. If you want to share a tasty low-sodium snack, some plain cooked cucumber would be a safer choice.

10 Safe Vegetables for Dogs

Rank	Vegetable	Benefits
1	Carrots	High in vitamin A and fiber, they also help with dental health.
2	Peas	Packed with vitamins K, A, and B, as well as minerals like iron, zinc, potassium, and magnesium.
3	Green Beans	Low in calories and high in fiber, they are a great source of vitamins C, K, and manganese.
4	Sweet Potatoes	Rich in dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C, beta carotene, and manganese.
5	Pumpkin	Provides a good source of fiber as well as vitamins A and C.
6	Cucumbers	Low in calories and fats but high in vitamins K, C, and B1, along with potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin2
7	Spinach	High in iron and vitamin K, but should be given in moderation due to high levels of oxalic acid.
8	Zucchini	Low in calories and high in fiber, they are a great source of vitamins B6, C, K, and riboflavin.
9	Broccoli	Contains high amounts of fiber and vitamin C but should be given in moderation due to isothiocyanates that can cause mild-to-potentially-severe gastric irritation in some dogs.
10	Brussels Sprouts	Loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that are great for your dog.

A Note on Carrots

Besides being an excellent vitamin A source necessary for good vision, carrots promote dental health. When chewed raw by dogs, they act like natural toothbrushes, helping clean their teeth while providing a low-calorie snack.

The crunchiness stimulates saliva production, reducing plaque buildup and improving oral hygiene overall. Remember, though, moderation is key when incorporating these human foods into your pup’s meals.

Is Asparagus Safe For Dogs?

Asparagus is safe for dogs to eat in moderation. The vegetable is not toxic to dogs and provides vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K. However, there are some risks to be aware of. Asparagus contains purines that can cause urinary problems if too much is consumed. The tough fibrous texture can also be a choking hazard or difficult to digest.

Dogs should only eat pet-safe cooked asparagus prepared without seasoning, butter, or oil. Only feed small amounts occasionally as a treat. While not poisonous, dogs don’t gain significant nutritional value from asparagus to warrant making it a regular part of their diet. Overall it can be fed safely in limited quantities.

Is Cabbage Safe For Dogs?

Cabbage is safe for dogs to eat in moderation. It provides vitamins C, K, and fiber. However, cabbage is more difficult for dogs to digest than other vegetables due to its high fiber content. Feed it cooked and in small quantities mixed with their regular food.

Avoid raw cabbage, as the tough leaves are a choking hazard. Start with just a few pieces at a time to see if your dog tolerates it well. Cabbage also contains a compound called thiocyanate that interferes with thyroid function if over-consumed. So while cabbage isn’t toxic for most dogs, introduce it slowly and stick to infrequent, small amounts to be safe.

10 Dairy Products That Are Safe & Not Safe For a Dog’s Diet

Dairy products can be a bit of a minefield when it comes to our canine companions. Some dogs might lap up milk, cheese, or yogurt with glee, while others may suffer from digestive problems like vomiting and diarrhea.

Rank	Dairy Product	Safe for Dogs?	Notes
1	Milk	Not Recommended	Some dogs are lactose intolerant and could experience digestive issues.
2	Cheese (Cheddar, Swiss)	In Moderation	Can be high in fat and cause weight gain or pancreatitis if fed in excess.
3	Yogurt	Yes, if unsweetened and unflavored	High in calcium and protein, but avoid those with added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
4	Cream Cheese	In Moderation	High in fat and calories, could lead to obesity if given too frequently.
5	Butter	Not Recommended	High in fat and can lead to obesity and pancreatitis.
6	Ice Cream	Not Recommended	Ice cream is high in sugar. Some dogs are lactose intolerant and could experience digestive issues.
7	Cottage Cheese	Yes, in small amounts	Low in fat and high in calcium and protein.
8	Sour Cream	Not Recommended	High in fat and can lead to digestive issues.
9	Whipped Cream	Not Recommended	High in sugar and fat.
10	Heavy Cream	Not Recommended	Very high in fat and can lead to obesity and pancreatitis.

Lactose Intolerance: Not Just A Human Problem

Dogs are unique individuals just like us. While some dogs lap up dairy products without batting an eye, others might struggle to digest lactose present in milk-based foods such as cheese or ice cream. This lack of the enzyme called lactase needed to break down said sugars may result in unpleasant symptoms like gas, diarrhea, and vomiting. If you notice these signs after feeding them dairy, it’s best to steer clear of those items in the future.

Milk for Dogs: A Risky Proposition?

Puppies are born ready to digest their mother’s milk thanks to an abundance of lactase enzymes. But as they grow into adulthood, these levels often decrease, making cow’s milk harder on dogs’ stomachs.

If you want your furry friend to enjoy some dairy goodness without risking its health, always remember to introduce new foods slowly and watch out for any allergic reactions. Keep small amounts only after testing tolerance first.

Cheese: A Tasty, But Potentially Troublesome Treat

Cheese has less lactose than most other dairy products, which makes it more tolerable for many dogs’ stomachs. However, moderation should still be practiced since too much cheese could lead to obesity due to the high-fat content present in cheeses.

Cottage cheese is a better choice than regular varieties, as it contains beneficial nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins B12, D, E, and K2 but with lower fat content.

Ice Cream: Not So Cool For Canine Companions?

We all love spoiling our pets with treats every now and then; however, ice cream isn’t the best choice despite how much they seem to enjoy licking the spoon clean. Most ice creams contain large quantities of sugar and artificial sweeteners, both of which are harmful to pets if consumed in excess quantity.

Packing Protein with Plain Yogurt

A powerhouse source of protein and calcium, plain yogurt is an excellent addition to any pup’s meal plan. It’s loaded with probiotics that bolster the digestive system by encouraging healthy gut flora. In fact, small amounts of this creamy delight could potentially fortify your dog’s immune system due to its high concentration of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus acidophilus.

Sugar-Sweetened Yogurts: Beware The Hidden Danger

We all love sweet treats, but yogurts laced with added sugar or artificial sweeteners should never make their way into a pet’s food bowl. They caution against Xylitol – an extremely toxic substance found in many artificially-sweetened goods, which, even tiny doses, can lead to severe liver damage and death in dogs. Always opt for unsweetened natural varieties to ensure optimal health and safety for your four-legged friend and avoid unnecessary complications like weight gain and dental problems caused by excessive intake of sugars. Remember to always read labels before buying anything.

Top 10 Protein Sources for Dogs

The dietary requirements of our beloved canine companions are not unlike ours. Proteins play a vital role in their diet, supporting muscle development and boosting the dog’s immune system.

Rank	Protein Source	Benefits
1	Chicken	High in protein and can be easily digested. It also helps strengthen a dog’s bones.
2	Turkey	Rich in nutrients like protein, riboflavin, and phosphorous.
3	Beef	Full of essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins.
4	Lamb	Good source of protein and is often used in dog food for dogs with allergies or food sensitivities.
5	Fish (Salmon, Tuna)	Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for a dog’s skin and coat.
6	Eggs	Highly digestible and packed with protein and amino acids.
7	Duck	Hypoallergenic and high in iron and amino acids.
8	Bison	Lower in fat and cholesterol than beef, high in protein, iron, and vitamin B12.
9	Venison	High in protein but low in fat, making it great for dogs with food sensitivities or weight issues.
10	Rabbit	Lean protein source is an alternative for dogs that have allergies to more common proteins.

The Importance Of Protein In A Dog’s Diet

Mixing healthy human food into your pet’s meals gives variety, besides giving you control over what goes inside those bowls. Proteins perform several roles – right from strengthening muscles, improving skin condition, enhancing hair quality, and fortifying immune systems. 

Fish – Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Offering your pup fish such as salmon or tuna is a great way to add protein to their diet. These types of fish are packed with omega-3 fatty acids that contribute significantly to your pup’s health by enhancing coat shine, reducing inflammation, and promoting cognitive function.

But remember. Always serve these fish fully cooked without any seasoning, as raw or undercooked seafood may carry harmful parasites, while salt or spices could upset your dog’s stomach.

Eggs for Dogs

Fascinatingly enough, raw egg whites can lead to biotin deficiency due to their avidin content. This protein inhibits the absorption of biotin – an essential vitamin for healthy skin and coats in dogs. So always ensure those eggs are fully cooked before serving them up.

Cooked Chicken and Pork

In addition to fish, chicken is another fantastic source of lean protein that dogs love. It should also be served fully cooked sans seasonings or sauces, just like you would do with the fish. When thoroughly cooked, pork provides much-needed proteins for maintaining strong muscles, among other benefits. Poultry meats such as chicken along with pork offer high-protein content, but they’re low-fat, making them perfect even if you have overweight pets who need help losing weight. But moderation remains key here because overfeeding anything isn’t beneficial either.

Always ensure protein sources, whether it’s salmon, shrimp, tuna, chicken, pork, etc., are unseasoned and well-cooked before serving. This helps prevent digestive problems. Also, introduce new foods gradually and keep watch for allergic reactions. Call a vet immediately if something seems off-kilter.

What Nuts Can Dogs Eat?

Ever wondered if your furry friends can enjoy the crunchy delight of nuts and seeds? Well, it’s a mixed bag. Some are healthy additions to their diet, while others should be strictly avoided.

Beware though. Always opt for unsalted peanuts, as excessive salt intake could lead to sodium ion poisoning in dogs.

The Nutty Truth: Almonds And Macadamia Nuts

If you’re nuts about almonds like many people are – hold on. These tasty morsels might be hard for us humans to resist, but they spell trouble when it comes down to your pup’s stomach. Especially flavored ones, such as smoked or coated varieties, may trigger significant digestive problems in dogs.

Moving onto another nut – macadamia nuts. They’re no less harmful; actually, more so. Consuming these could result in weakness, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia (increased body temperature).

Cashews: A Nutty Affair.

You’ve got it right; cashews are safe for dogs too. But before tossing one towards Fido, remember they must be unsalted and fully cooked. Raw or salted cashews could upset your pet’s stomach or lead to sodium poisoning.

A handful of cashews now and then won’t harm them – instead, providing healthy fats that support their overall health. However, moderation is key here as well.

Monitor closely for any allergic reactions when introducing new foods into your canine companion’s diet.

Allium Alert: Garlic And More

You’ve heard how beneficial garlic is for humans, right? Unfortunately, this beneficial food group isn’t safe for our four-legged friends; the Allium family of foods, including onions, chives, and garlic, contain compounds that can be damaging to red blood cells if ingested over time, potentially leading to anemia and other conditions. Foods from the Allium family, including onions, chives, along with garlic, contain compounds that, if ingested over time, have potentially damaging effects on red blood cells, potentially leading to anemia, among other conditions.

What Grains Can Dogs Eat?

Is your pup giving you puppy eyes while you’re munching on a sandwich? You might be wondering if sharing is caring in this case. Well, good news. Your dog can indeed enjoy bread and grains – but there’s more to the story.

Corn: More Than Just Filler?

Fully cooked corn kernels might not pose harm but offer little nutritional value compared to other vegetables, such as green beans or carrots. However, some dogs might struggle to digest it, potentially leading to digestive problems.

1. Avoid feeding whole cobs – If ingested by curious pooches exploring their surroundings, it could cause intestinal blockage, a serious condition requiring immediate veterinary attention.
2. Limited Nutritional Value – While safe when fully cooked, the nutritional value of corn pales in comparison with more nutrient-dense veggies like green beans.
3. Potential Digestive Issues – Some pups may find it hard to digest this grain, resulting in potential gastrointestinal issues. Always monitor how your fur baby reacts after eating new food items.

The Popcorn Perk

You might find this surprising, but plain popcorn (without salt or butter) can serve as a fun, low-calorie treat (source). It provides fiber and several minerals beneficial to your pup’s health.

The Quinoa Conundrum

Moving onto quinoa – yes, it gets the green light too. This pseudo-grain packs quite a punch with its high protein content, which supports muscle development in our furry friends. Fiber-rich quinoa aids digestion, making it another human food beneficial for pups. Like other foods discussed here, quinoa shouldn’t make up most of your canine companion’s meals since meat-based products specifically designed for dogs provide essential nutrients missing from plant-based ones.

Dishing Out Wheat To Dogs

If wheat has been worrying you lately – worry no more. Most pooches digest wheat efficiently without issues. That being said, avoid feeding whole grain varieties, especially those containing nuts or raisins – both known culprits behind several pet poison helpline calls. Instead, opt for plain white rice during times tummy troubles occur owing to the easier digestibility factor.

Honey – More Than Just Sweetness

Beyond its sweetness lies nutritional value within honey too. It contains traces of vitamins C and D and minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, and niacin, all beneficial to maintaining good pup health. However, moderation is key here since high sugar content could potentially result in obesity and dental problems over time.

Allergies And Intolerances: Watch Out.

Dogs aren’t immune from allergies. They may have adverse reactions just like us humans do. Certain breeds may be more susceptible than others, but predicting which foods will trigger an allergic reaction isn’t always straightforward until they’ve consumed them.

If you notice any signs of discomfort after introducing new food items into your dog’s diet – itching skin rashes, digestive problems, excessive gas, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior – consult with a vet immediately. It’s likely indicating an allergy that needs medical attention.

Nutritional Imbalance And Obesity: A Growing Concern?

Replacing too much of their specialized dog food with human snacks could disrupt the nutritional balance specifically designed by experts for canine health. This practice also contributes towards obesity since most human foods contain a higher fat content than specially formulated diets for dogs.

Get Your Dog ESA Certified!

Understanding what human food dogs can eat is a vital part of responsible pet ownership. We’ve explored the world of safe fruits, vegetables, and proteins for your furry friend.

Dairy products? A resounding maybe. Moderation is key here. Snacks like unsalted peanut butter and plain popcorn got a thumbs up too!

But remember to steer clear from harmful foods such as almonds, chocolate, garlic, or macadamia nuts – they’re no good for our canine companions. Breads and grains may not be nutritional powerhouses, but they aren’t dangerous in small amounts either.

Now you know more about keeping your dog healthy with some tasty treats from your kitchen! However, there’s always more to discover in the realm of pet care.

At Service Pets, we’re dedicated to helping pet owners like you provide the best care possible for their beloved animals. Whether you need help certifying your pup as an emotional support animal or a psychiatric service animal, we’ve got you covered!

Ready to take the next step? Take the free pre-qualification test today!