Human foods that dogs can consume
It’s very natural and common to want to share your food with your dog. But, dogs have different digestive systems, meaning that all human foods may not be safe for their consumption. However, there are many human foods that are safe for them and not only provide them with a delicious treat but also have tons of nutritional benefits. In this article, we list a few human foods that are safe and healthy for dogs.
Carrots
Carrots are great human food for your pet pooch. Carrots are high in fiber which helps improve your dog’s digestive system. They are also loaded with vitamin A that helps boost the immune system, improving the overall quality of your pet’s skin and coat. Carrots are also good for your dog’s oral health and help remove plaque due to their crunchy texture.
Dairy products
Dairy products in limited or small amounts are also good for your dog. You can try giving your pet milk, cheese, even plain yogurt. But, note that most dogs could be lactose intolerant due to the low levels of lactase in their body. Lactase is a digestive enzyme that is essential to break down the sugars in milk. It is recommended to avoid dairy products if your dog is lactose intolerant.
Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids are not only an essential nutrient for human beings but also dogs. They help boost their immune system, improve the quality of their skin, and even maintain a healthy fur coat. Foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, shrimp, and tuna. Note that it is important to cook any fish before feeding it to your dog. This is because raw fish can contain harmful parasites that could cause more harm than good.
Apples
Apples are rich sources of vitamin A and vitamin C. They are also a great source of fiber content which helps improve and strengthen the digestive tract. Note that overripe or rotting apples can lead to alcohol poisoning in dogs.
Plain popcorn
Popcorn is a great snacking option for humans, but many do not know that they are also a perfectly healthy treat for dogs. Plain, air-popped popcorn contains tons of minerals such as magnesium, phosphorous, and even zinc that can help keep your dog healthy. Of course, it is important to avoid any flavored popcorn as it can contain preservatives that can prove harmful to your pet.
Peanut butter
Peanut butter with no salt, sugar, additional sweeteners is also safe for dog consumption. It contains many healthy and essential nutrients such as vitamin E, niacin, and even protein, making it the perfect healthy snack for your pet pooch.
Note that it is best to talk to the veterinarian before adding any of these foods to your dog’s diet.