Dog owners tend to care for their pups like children. We want to give them the best of everything – a clean and comfortable home, healthy diet, proper health care, and plenty of love. And like a good parent, it’s hard to say “no” when your dog wants to share your favorite, tasty human foods.
Unfortunately, what a dog can or can’t eat varies greatly compared to humans. While some fruits, vegetables and meat products are considered superfoods for us, these things can wreak havoc on a dog’s health and digestive system. To help dog owners figure out what they can or can’t feed their dogs, here’s a simple guide that covers the most common people foods for dogs.
What Dogs Need To Eat
Depending on your dog’s breed, age, health, and activity level, the percentage of daily intake of these nutrients may vary.
Protein
A high-protein diet is crucial for growing and/or active dogs. Protein helps repair muscles and keeps your dog’s cells functioning optimally. Quality meats, like the kind found in good dog food brands, give your dog the energy to be active, thereby allowing them to exercise and stay healthy. When possible, stick to lean proteins like chicken and salmon.
Fat
Fats are an important source of energy for dogs, while helping your dog’s body absorb and use all possible vitamins and nutrients found in their food. If you have a dog that works (e.g. police dog), make sure to provide the right mix of fats in their diet.
Carbohydrates
Interestingly enough, dogs don’t need carbohydrates, according to a study conducted by the National Research Council. Yet surprisingly, carbs make up a large portion of most dry dog foods. Unfortunately, this is because carbohydrates are abundant, offer a long shelf life, and cheap on a per calorie basis compared to proteins and fats.
While carbs are not bad for dogs and do offer a reasonable source of energy for canines, please do limit your dog’s intake.
What Do Dogs Eat
While this list is by no means comprehensive, we did try to address the most popular myths.However, if you have questions about specific foods or want to learn more about why your pet should or should not eat a particular food, a resource like Dog Food Genius may be helpful!
Here are some common foods your dog can eat:
Watermelon, Red Bell Peppers, Ripe Tomatoes, Cauliflower, Bananas, Zucchini, Cucumbers, Blueberries, Carrots, Broccoli, Eggs, Oatmeal, Asparagus, Edamame, Cottage Cheese, Spinach, Peanut Butter, Celery, Peach, Lentils, Cabbage, Strawberries, and Cooked Fish.
Here are some foods your dog shouldn’t eat:
Pomegranate, Tofu, Bacon, Milk, Pizza, Almonds, French Fries, Corn, Ham, Ketchup, Cinnamon, Crackers, Radish, Beer, Butter, Cranberries, Onions, Beef Jerky, Pasta, Raw Fish, Garlic, Curry, and Hot Sauce.
And lastly, here are some treats your dog should only have in moderation:
Ice Cream, Oranges, Salmon, Rice, Cantaloupe, Mushrooms, Pickles, Potatoes, Olives, Popcorn, Honey, Raspberries, Shrimp, Cheese, Avocado, Greek Yogurt, Cherries, Bread, Marshmallows, Ice Cubes, Eggplant, Beans, Cashews, Kiwi, Lemon Juice, Cooked Squash, Cream Cheese, Coffee, and Coconut.
Overall, the basics include foods that provide energy, proteins and minor nutrients, essential fatty acids, and vitamins. Always avoid foods high in sodium and fat, which can result in dehydration and digestive issues.
Meanwhile, strive for lean proteins and complex carbohydrates, while considering allergies and special dietary needs.
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Photo credit: Getty Images
Imformative post.This sounds like great food for dogs. . I want a best food for dog that is nutritious and easy to digest for my dog. Please suggest some kind for me !
Some of this information is valid, and some of it is pure rubbish.
No idea where you got it because you don’t say.
Nor do you explain any of it.
I certainly hope no one pays attention to your advice.
In case you need another reference point, here is a very credible source that verifies the information in this article. I’d suggest not offering an opinion before you do your research.
http://www.akc.org/content/health/articles/human-foods-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/