Human Food Safety for Dogs

Sometimes we can’t tell our dogs no when it comes to them begging for some of our snacks. Whether it’s Goldfish, Fruits, or just a granola bar, below is a list of foods that your pups can and cannot have.

Foods that are safe for dogs include:

• Bread– In small amounts, bread is safe for dogs. Just be sure that it is plain, and does not include any spices and definitely no raisins.
• Cashews– Cashews are ok for dogs, but only very few, and only if they are unsalted.
• Cheese- Your pups can eat cheese in small to moderate quantities. Just be sure that your pup is not lactose intolerant, this is rare in dogs, but it is still possible.
• Coconut– Coconut is ok for dogs, along with coconut milk and oil.
• Corn- Corn is ok for dogs, just don’t allow them to have the cob, it can be rough to digest and could cause internal blockage.
• Eggs– Eggs are safe for dogs as long as they are fully cooked, be sure to cook all the way through before sharing some with your pup.
• Fish– Dogs can eat fish, salmon and sardines are the most beneficial, always be sure to pick out all the tiny bones, and always be sure to cook all the way through.
• Ham– Ham is ok for dogs to eat, but it is not necessarily the healthiest because of the high sodium and fat, but small pieces here and there are ok.
• Honey– Dogs can eat honey, small amounts are very beneficial in many ways for your pup.
• Milk– Dogs can have milk, but like cheese, be sure your pup is not lactose intolerant before giving some to them.
• Peanut butter– Dogs can have peanut butter, it can be a great source of protein. Just be sure to read the label and assure that the peanut butter you buy for your pup does not contain xylitol.
• Peanuts– Unlike almonds, peanuts are safe for dogs. Just be sure to give in moderation so that your dog is not taking in too much fat, and always avoid salted peanuts.
• Popcorn– Unsalted, unbuttered, and air-popped popcorn is safe for your dog, in small amounts. Always make sure you pop all the kernels fully, as these can be a choking hazard.
• Pork– Pork is ok for your dogs and may be less likely to cause an allergic reaction when compared to other proteins.
• Quinoa– Quinoa is ok for dogs, and can even be found in some high-quality dog foods.
• Salmon– Dogs can eat salmon, but always be sure to fully cook the salmon before giving it to you dog.
• Shrimp– Dogs can have shrimp, a few every now and then is fine, but only if they are fully cooked and the shell is fully removed.
• Tuna– Tuna is ok for dogs, but only in small amounts. Fresh cooked tuna is ok in moderation, but canned tuna should be avoided in excess, and only given in very small amounts.
• Turkey– Turkey is ok for dogs, but only if the excess fat and skin is removed, and always check for bones.
• Wheat/Grains– It is fine for dogs to have wheat and grains, just keep an eye out for allergic reactions.
• Yogurt- Plain yogurt is a good snack for your pup. Just be sure it is plain yogurt, and avoid any with added sugar, and never give them any with artificial sweeteners.

Foods that are NOT ok for your dogs:

• Almonds
• Chocolate
• Cinnamon
• Garlic
• Ice cream
• Macadamia Nuts

When it comes to giving human food to our pups, a lot of people think that all fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs, which is not the case. Some fruits and veggies have many benefits for our dogs, but there are some that you should avoid.

Fruits and Veggies that are NOT ok for your dogs:

• Avocado
• Cherries
• Grapes
• Tomatoes
• Asparagus
• Mushrooms
• Onion

Fruits and Veggies that are ok for your dogs:

• Apples
• Bananas
• Blueberries
• Cantaloupe
• Cranberries
• Cucumbers
• Mango
• Oranges
• Peaches
• Pears
• Pineapple
• Pumpkin
• Raspberries
• Strawberries
• Watermelon
• Broccoli
• Brussel Sprouts
• Carrots
• Celery
• Green Beans
• Peas
• Spinach

Although a lot of these options are considered safe, always keep in mind that your pup may have certain allergies to some of these items. Always introduce new foods to your dogs slowly and be sure to supervise them afterward. Most of these items listed are ok in small amounts or in moderation, be sure to do more research in advance before giving your pup any of these treats.