12 Healthiest Human Foods for Dogs
by Katie Finlay
There are plenty of people foods we’d love to share with our dogs, but some are much healthier than others. In fact, some foods are even toxic to our dogs. But fear not, there are certain human snacks that can actually benefit our four-legged friends. To see what they are, check out this list!
(As always, practice moderation and check with your vet before making any dietary changes.)
#1 – Peanut Butter
Peanut Butter is one of the best treats to give to dogs because it lasts them so long! Plus, its packed full of protein, healthy fats, niacin, vitamin B and vitamin E. Unsalted peanut butter is the best, as too much salt is just as bad for dogs as it is for people. Make sure you check your peanut butter to make sure it DOES NOT contain sugar substitutes like Xylitol, which can be deadly for dogs.
#2 – Chicken
Chicken can be fed to our dogs a variety of ways. Cooked chicken meat is a perfectly suitable snack or meal additive, but cooked bones should never be fed to dogs. On the other hand, both raw chicken and raw chicken bones are healthy for our dogs to eat. Cooked bones splinter and can be dangerous, while raw bones are soft and chewy.
#3 – Cheese
(Note: some dogs are lactose intolerant, and any dairy products should be given in small amounts.) If your dog is not lactose intolerant, cheese is an excellent treat choice. Cottage cheese is fed often by many dog owners because it’s high in protein, calcium and is bland and easy to digest.
#4 – Carrots
Carrots are high in fiber and vitamin A while being low in calories, so they make a great snack for your pooch. Chewing raw carrots is also beneficial for your dog’s teeth. If you’ve got an overweight dog, carrots are a great choice for treats because of their low calorie content.
#5 – Yogurt
(Note: some dogs are lactose intolerant, and any dairy products should be given in small amounts.) Yogurt is full of protein, calcium and digestive cultures and is an excellent way to improve your pup’s digestive health. Make sure the yogurt you choose includes live active cultures and is non-fat with no sweetener or flavor.
#6 – Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin or fresh, cooked pumpkin with no added sugars and spices is a great choice for dogs with a sensitive stomach. It’s also an excellent source of vitamin A and fiber.
#7 – Eggs
Eggs can be fed raw or cooked and both have great health benefits. Raw eggs should also be fed with a shell, giving the full amount of biotin, protein, riboflavin and selenium. Cooked eggs should be prepared plain with no salt, pepper or any other seasoning.
#8 – Green Beans
Green beans are highly recommended by veterinarians for owners looking to help their dogs’ lose weight. They are very high in fiber but low in calories, making them a healthy treat alternative that’s filling but won’t add any weight.
#9 – Salmon
Salmon is very high in health omega-3 fatty acids and is typically the fish used to make fish oils for our pets. Whether you want to give your pooch unseasoned cooked salmon or some capsules, you’ll be providing healthy vitamins for them. Do not give your dog uncooked salmon for any reason.
#10 – Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes work similarly to pumpkin as they are high in vitamin A, fiber and other nutrients. They are easily digestible when steamed or baked, served unseasoned.
#11 – Apples
Sliced apples are a healthy and tasty treat for dogs that are full of phytonutrients, vitamin A and vitamin C. They can be given with the skin on, but avoid feeding the seeds as they naturally contain cyanide.
#12 – Oatmeal
Oatmeal is found in many dog foods and for those not sensitive to grains, it can be a healthy additive to your dog’s meal. Not only is it packed with vitamins and minerals, it’s an excellent source of dietary fiber.