What Human Food Can A Dog Eat?

For most of us, our dogs are cherished members of our family. As such, we not only share our home and experiences with our four-legged friends but often our favourite foods as well. Is that good? Well, it depends on what you feed them. What kind of human foods can dogs eat? Many foods—such as fresh meats, fish, fruit, and vegetables—are good for dogs. But since dogs and humans metabolize food differently, some human foods are downright dangerous for your pooch. Knowing the difference could, at the very least, save you a trip to the vet. Here is a list of foods that are not only safe for your dog but are also GOOD for them. However, it is possible to have too much of a good thing, so always serve in moderation.

PROTEINS

What are the best protein sources for dogs? Fresh, lean cuts (avoiding fatty trims or skin) of whole food with no by-products that are cooked to avoid contamination are an excellent place to start. Avoid feeding your dog raw meat, fish, or eggs because there is a risk of food poisoning from bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli. Lightly cooking fresh whole-food ingredients will prevent disease while maximizing nutrition, digestibility, and taste.

• CHICKEN – Chicken is an excellent source of protein and vitamins.
• BEEF – Beef is a complete protein that is rich in iron, zinc, and vitamins B12 and B6.LAMB
• Lamb – Lamb has an abundant supply of high-quality protein, zinc, and iron.
• TURKEY – Turkey often gets a bad rap when it comes to dog nutrition, but served with fatty trim or skin, it is a superior source of lean protein and contains healthy minerals and vitamins.
• FISH – Cooked fish, such as salmon or cod, is not only an excellent source of protein and vitamins but also contains essential fatty acids that contribute to a healthy, shiny coat.

VEGETABLES

If you were paying attention to your mom when you were growing up, you won’t be surprised to find out that fresh, cooked vegetables (steamed or boiled for best digestion) would be high on the list of what human food is healthy for dogs. Here are some of the best:

• CARROTS – The adage that carrots are good for your eyes is not only true for you but for your pup as well. Carrots are also chock-full of vitamins and antioxidants.
• SWEET POTATOE – Sweet Potatoes have significant antioxidant capabilities and are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre.
• BROCCOLI – Broccoli is also an outstanding source of vitamins K, C, B6, E, and A as well as minerals and dietary fibre. You should limit broccoli, generally like all treats, to an occasional snack because it contains compounds that may irritate your dog’s digestive system if eaten too often.
• GREEN BEANS – Green beans are rich in vitamin K, riboflavin, copper, omega-3 fatty acids, and niacin and are a good source of dietary fiber, phosphorous, and protein.

FRUITS

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Well, that might be a bit much for your dog (remember our moderation rule), but you get the idea. Fruits are GREAT treats for our furry friends!

• APPLES – Apples, green or red, are high in antioxidants and fibers. Always chop into bite-size pieces and never feed your dog apple seeds, as they can contain cyanide, a chemical that can be poisonous in large amounts.
• CRANBERRIES – Cranberries are considered to be one of the world’s healthiest foods and are an excellent source of vitamin C, fibre, manganese, and vitamins E and K. They are also rich in disease-fighting antioxidants. They are a little tart, so they are best mixed with meals.
• BLUEBERRIES – Blueberries are an excellent source of vitamins K and C, manganese, and fibre and, like cranberries, are a great source of antioxidants.

The list of what human foods can dog’s have also included venison, potatoes, green peas, white and brown rice, to name a few. Use common sense. For example, don’t feed your precious pup junk food or anything that is heavily salted or seasoned.