Food

12 Healthy Human Foods Dogs Can Eat (In Moderation!) Plus a Few They Can’t

Written by: Dr. Katy Nelson

February 15, 2022

Everyone knows the saying, “dogs are man’s best friend.” And what do we do with our best friends? We eat.

The foods we feed our dogs can either get a tail wag with no harm done, or potentially cause serious health issues. You already know that foods like grapes, chocolate, onions, and garlic are toxic to pups, so here are some people food favorites you can safely share in small amounts to keep you and your dog happy and healthy.

1. Peanut Butter

Peanut butter contains heart-healthy fats, along with vitamin B, niacin and vitamin E. Try stuffing your dog’s bone with a little peanut butter for a tasty enrichment activity, but double check that it doesn’t contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that’s extremely toxic to dogs even in small amounts.

dog eating peanut butter off a spoon

2. Low-Fat Cheese

As if you needed another reason to eat cheese! As long as your dog isn’t lactose intolerant (yes, some are), low-fat cheeses like mozzarella or cottage cheese can be a great treat option for your canine friend, though it should be noted that some dairy products can cause some silent but deadly gas.

dog with cheese on its nose

3. Carrots

Carrots are high in vitamin A and beta-carotene. They’re known to improve eyesight and can even serve as low-calorie dental treats for dogs, making them a great healthy choice to share with your pup.

dog eating a carrot

4. Pumpkin

You now have a reason to eat pumpkin year-round! Instead of your beloved PSL, enjoy some of this vitamin A-packed fruit with your pup to keep their GI tract moving and help with digestive issues. Note: Only add a spoonful or two of plain pumpkin puree—NOT pumpkin pie filling—to your dog’s food.

dog trying to eat a pumpkin

Related Article: Thanksgiving Foods Dogs Can & Can’t Eat

5. Eggs

Eggs are high in protein and easy digestible, making them a great choice if you’re sharing a laid-back brunch with your pup.

dog pretending to be a chef

6. Apples

Can dogs eat apples? Of course, and they come with some dental benefits too! Apple slices can help freshen your pooch’s stinky breath. They make a great choice to share before going on a date to the dog park, but don’t forget to take out the seeds and core as they can be a choking hazard.

dog with an apple on its nose

Related Article: Can Dogs Eat Apples?

7. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great source of dietary fiber for both you and your dog. Make sure to cook before serving and opt for oats with no added sugars or artificial sweeteners (+10 points if you add a little zucchini to your oats to sneak a serving of veggies into your dog’s diet).

pug with its owner who is eating oatmeal

8. Salmon

The good kind of fat found in salmon can help improve not only your hair and nails, but your dog’s skin and coat, too! Mix some in with your BFF’s breakfast or dinner so that all the dog hair embedded into your carpet will be healthy and shiny.

dog looking at some salmon

9. Pineapple

Pineapple is a great summer treat for your pup that contains both calcium and potassium. Try freezing fresh chunks to give as a cool, sweet snack.

dog attempting to eat an unpeeled pineapple

10. Rice

Plain, unseasoned rice is great for your dog, especially if they’re having tummy troubles. Brown or white can work; while brown is a little higher in protein, white rice is easier to digest (especially for older dogs).

dog eating rice

11. Blueberries

Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, minerals, fiber, and deliciousness, blueberries make a great treat for dogs with a sweet tooth.

dog eating a blueberry

Related Article: Can Dog Eat Blueberries?

12. Sweet Potato

Raw sweet potato is a no-no for pups, but if it’s cooked with the skin removed (or even better, sliced thin and baked for a crunchy treat!) sweet potatoes can really hit the spot. Just don’t go overboard—start with a small amount, and if your pup has no tummy troubles, you can try a little more next time.

picture of sweet potatoes

What human foods are unsafe for dogs?

Some human food is perfectly fine as an occasional treat for your furry friend, while others can cause upset stomach, vomiting, or even intestinal blockage. Here’s a list of human food dogs should avoid, even in small quantities1:

  • Chocolate
  • Avocados
  • Raw Meat
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Raw egg
  • Garlic
  • Grapes and raisins

We know you’re passionate about giving your dog the best, including dog food so we designed breed-specific dog food recipes to support your dog’s individuality. Different breeds, different needs!


Sources:

1 Shallowford Animal Hospital. “10 Foods Your Dog Should Never Eat”. https://shallowfordvet.com/10-foods-dog-never-eat/

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Written by: Dr. Katy Nelson

February 15, 2022

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