Best Human Foods For Dogs
Dogs love to eat what their humans are having. Not all human food is good for your pet, but here are 9 good choices to share with your best friend.
- Oatmeal
Often dogs are sensitive to wheat or other grains which is why quality dog foods usually proclaim they are “grain free”.
Most dogs can eat cooked oatmeal and it is actually good for them. It contains linoleic acid and vitamin B, which both encourage healthy skin and a shiny coat.
The fiber in oats also keeps a dog’s glucose levels steady, just like it does for humans. Compare steel cut oats vs rolled oats to find your favorite texture. Avoid the instant packages because they are too high in salt and sugar.
- Peanut Butter
You have probably laughed hysterically at the faces your dog makes after licking peanut butter off a spoon. It is definitely one of their favorite treats.
Natural peanut butter is best. It provides your dog with protein, healthy fats, and some vitamins
Be absolutely sure if you’re sharing store-bought peanut butter that xlitol has not been added as a sweetener since it is poisonous to dogs.
- Cheese
Everyone knows that dogs love cheese. Cubes of cheese can reliably be used to hide a pill or as a reward during training.
Unfortunately, the same is true for dogs as for humans. Cheese contains calcium but it also has a lot of fat. For that reason, it should be an occasional treat or reward for both of you. Also, stick to the blander types like cheddar and American.
- Kefir
Kefir is really healthy for both humans and dogs. In case you haven’t heard of it, it’s fermented milk that’s full of vitamins and minerals and is also a great source of probiotics to keep both of you healthy.
Unlike yogurt, since kefir is easy to make at home, you know that it won’t have sugar or other additives.
Dogs love the taste of milk, but many are lactose intolerant. Kefir is very low in lactose.
- Pumpkin
Many people give their dogs canned pumpkin when their digestive systems seem “off”.
Dogs seem to like it even when they are feeling nauseated. It can quickly ease your dog’s entire digestive system. Pumpkin is also a prebiotic, which helps your dog’s own beneficial bacteria colony increase for better digestion in the future.
Keep a few cans in your pantry just in case.
- Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein, loaded with vitamins and minerals and dogs can eat them cooked any way. If the eggs are hard boiled, you can even leave bits of the shell attached, since that is also good for them.
Just be sure that you haven’t added lots of spices first, which may upset your dog’s stomach. Raw eggs can also be broken over your dog’s usual food as both an incentive to eat and an added nutritional boost.
- Apple Slices
You may have heard apples referred to as “nature’s toothbrush”.
Apple slices will clean your dog’s teeth while providing them with vitamins and fiber. Just make sure you have removed the core and seeds, which could be choking hazards.
- Broccoli
Dogs don’t need to eat as many fruits and vegetables as humans do, but broccoli is one with a lot of health benefits.
Feeding your pet either raw or cooked broccoli is fine. Just avoid giving them large quantities of it and make sure it is not in any kind of sauce or seasonings.
- Carrots
Adult dogs need to chew as much as puppies do. Raw carrots are great for both your dog’s teeth and body.
Keep an eye on your pet while they’re chewing. If they seem to be breaking off small pieces, take those away before they become a choking hazard.
Try sharing some of these treats and you can rest assured that they are all veterinarian approved.
