New pet parent? Then you are definitely not yet used to those large sad eyes looking up to you and begging for treats at the dinner table. Those eyes are hard to resist, and you will often be tempted to give them some scraps. However, dogs have a different digestive system from us, which makes many human foods harmful to them.
Fortunately, there are some foods that you can share with your dog without worrying about their health. Sharing food will not only make your little doggo happy but you will also get to cut down on their packaged food, which is a healthy and eco-friendly step. Read on to find the top 6 human foods your dog can eat and relish.
Eggs
Eggs contain high amounts of vitamins, proteins, and fatty acids, basically all the nutrients your companion needs to keep healthy. Even the shell of the egg is an excellent source of calcium. But you should only feed eggshells with your vet’s permission and with care. Instead of giving it directly, make an eggshell powder. This will avoid any sharp shell edges from hurting your dog’s throat. Also, only feed shells of eggs that come directly from farms and not grocery stores.
Do not feed your dog raw or undercooked eggs. They carry the risk of contracting salmonella, a bacteria that can cause diarrhea and vomiting, in humans and dogs. Do not cook the egg in spices and oil either. It can be harmful to your dog’s digestion. Also, be mindful of the quantity. Eggs should be given as a treat and not as a proper meal.
Peanut Butter
Who doesn’t love peanut butter? Just like you, your dog would also love to have peanut butter for their meal. Fortunately for them, peanut butter is safe for dogs to consume. It is high in protein, Vitamin B and E, and niacin. For dogs, the best and healthiest peanut butter is one that doesn't contain salt.
To determine the quantity, follow the 10 percent rule, which says that treats should only form 10 percent of your dog’s diet. Too much peanut butter can easily cause obesity and other health concerns like pancreatitis. Also remember to not, at any cost, feed your dog peanut butter that contains xylitol. Xylitol is toxic for dogs and can cause life-threatening low blood sugar levels immediately on consumption.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a simple food item we love for its health benefits. And luckily it’s healthy for our pooches too!. Oatmeal is rich in Vitamin B, linoleic acid, and high fiber, making it perfect for dogs with digestion issues. It is also a fantastic alternative to grain for dogs who are allergic to wheat.
Only choose oatmeal that doesn’t contain sugar and any extra flavoring for your dog. Cook it thoroughly with water and not milk (milk can upset your dog’s stomach). And much like other human foods, feed in moderation.
Vegetables and fruits
Vegetables like peas, carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes are a fantastic source of potassium and vitamin for your dog. These veggies, especially green beans, can even help your furry friend lose their extra weight.
Among fruits, blueberries, bananas, apples, oranges, and strawberries are suitable and safe for dogs. Bananas can even help soothe an upset stomach. However, due to high sugar levels in fruits, you should only feed fruits in small quantities. Don’t forget to remove seeds where they’re present too.
Dairy Products
Dairy products can either be safe or harmful for your dog. The key is to control lactose consumption. Dairy products with low amounts of lactose, like cheese and plain yogurt, can be safe for your dog, provided they do not have lactose intolerance.
Yogurt contains proteins and calcium. Remember to check the label for any added sugar and xylitol. In cheese, mozzarella and goat cheese are two great low-salt, low-fat options that your dog will relish and love to eat. And because dogs love cheese so much, it’s the perfect place to hide their medicines too!
Lean Meats
Lean meats, or meat with low-fat content, are tasty and protein-rich treat options. Chicken, turkey, and poor ground beef can boost your dog’s energy. Ensure that you cook the meat well as raw or undercooked meat can create a possibility of bacterial infection. Small quantities are recommended as too much lean meat can cause many health concerns, such as obesity and pancreatic issues.
Okay, now that you have a list of safe foods, you can give in to those puppy dog eyes! Do remember though that table scraps must be strictly controlled as it contributes to obesity.
