We understand how tough it is to say “No” to those puppy-dog eyes during your meal time. As much as you’d wish to serve them one extra bite of your meal, it’s equally important to understand that your body functions differently from that of your pets. Hence, some food that is delicious for you, can instead be highly dangerous for your pet’s digestion.
Here we bring you a complete list of human food that are safe to feed to your dog so that the next time you express your affection through feeding them, you are sure to not risk their health.
1. Vegetables
Cucumber
If your dogs love cucumbers, they’re in for a healthy, crunchy treat. Cucumbers act as a quick, low-calorie and healthy snack for your furry friends.
Spinach
Feeding spinach to your pet is completely fine. However, it’s essential to ensure that you feed them in small amounts. Over-feeding of spinach can pose a risk of digestive issues.
Green beans
Green beans are totally healthy treats for your dogs, as long as they are plain. Serve it as chopped, steamed, raw or canned for your dog’s healthy nourishment.
Carrots
Carrots act as an amazingly healthy snack, as it is low on calories and high on vitamins. Adding to it, crunching on carrots is greatly beneficial for your dog’s teeth.
2. Fruits
Apples
Slice the apples thinly and remove the seeds before feeding your dog. This crunchy treat is high in fiber and will benefit your dog’s digestive system.
Blueberries
If your dog loves blueberries, don’t hesitate to feed them a few daily as a snack. It’s high in fiber and nutritionally rich, adding health benefits to this tasty treat.
Bananas
You can either serve some mashed bananas or feed a slice or two to your dog. However, ensure that you feed them in moderate quantities.
Watermelon
Packed with nutrients and low on calories, watermelon is a healthy treat for dogs. It’s safe to feed them as long as it doesn’t contain seeds as the seeds may pose a risk of intestinal blockage if choked on.
3. Dairy products
Cheese
As long as your dog is not lactose intolerant, feedinging them low-fat cheese in moderate quantities can be a great treat. Many pet parents also prefer the dog-specific Himalayan Dog Chew made of dried cheese. However, it’s essential to feed them in specific amounts.
Plain Yoghurt
Feeding plain yoghurt as a treat is perfectly acceptable. The active bacteria in the yoghurt can help strengthen their digestive system. Avoid feeding them yoghurt mixed with artificial sweeteners or flavours.
4. Meat
Fish
It’s healthy to feed fish to your dogs, especially salmon and sardines. Before you feed them, fully cook and cool the fish as undercooked or uncooked fish is unhealthy for your dog’s digestion.
Chicken
You can mix cooked, unseasoned chicken along with your pet’s regular food. Most dog food contains chicken as a major ingredient, hence it’s safe to say that chicken can rightly be a healthy meal for your pet.
Pork
You can definitely feed pork to your pet as it is highly digestible protein. However, always ensure that it’s free from any added spices, flavours and salt.
Chicken Broth
Providing an extra boost of nutrition, chicken broth is highly nutritious and safe to feed to dogs of all sizes and breed. Adding nutrients to the regular diet, it also greatly helps in hydration.
5. Peanut Butter
Serving peanut butter as treats might instantly make you your dog’s favourite hooman. However, remember to check the ingredients first and serve them only plain, unsalted peanut butter in moderate amounts.
6. Popcorn
It’s safe to feed your dog plain (free from salt, butter, oil or any added ingredient) popcorn. Ensure that it’s fully-popped, for popcorn kernels may get stuck in your dog’s teeth and pose a choking hazard.
We’re still sure that those puppy-eyes shall follow you each time you dine but now, you know when not to melt!
In case you wish to explore more about your pet’s diet and eating habits, feel free to reach out to our Pet Nutritionist.