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We love giving our dogs special people food treats. If done correctly, people food cannot only be a reward for good behavior, it can also help bolster and supplement your dog’s nutritional needs. In fact most raw dog food diets use the same foods that we eat regularly. So giving your dog that extra treat isn’t a bad idea.
However, some people food can be dangerous for your dog, so you want to make sure that when you do give them special people food treats that you are giving them something that is beneficial rather than harmful.
So we’ve put together a simple guide to people food so you know what can be safely incorporated into either your dog’s treat routine or added to raw dog food diet.
VIDEO: Can Dogs Eat People Food?
People Foods That Are Harmful
The following people foods should always be avoided because they can make your dog very sick. Some of them contain poisonous chemicals, others cannot be digested correctly, but all of them can cause health problems for your dog. So at treat time make sure that you avoid the following foods:
- Avocados: Avocados seem like a good idea because they contain Omega-3 Fatty Acids, a crucial part of any dog diet. However, they also contain a chemical called persin which may be toxic to dogs.
- Candy: Sugar is not great for dogs to begin with but many candies contain a chemical called xylitol. Xylitol is toxic for dogs and can cause a spike in blood sugar leading to liver failure and seizures.
- Chocolate: Chocolate, like most sweets should always be avoided. Chocolate also contains a chemical called theobromine can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, heart irregularities and even death.
- Onions: Onions are not very appealing to dogs, but they can be hidden inside other recipes. Onions are toxic to dogs because they impact the hemoglobin in their red blood cells and can cause anemia.
- Garlic: Garlic is part of the onion family and can cause the same problems with anemia as onions. So it is best to avoid feeding dogs anything containing garlic, even things like a piece of garlic marinaded meat.
- Grapes: Grapes can be fatal to dogs. Scientists do not know what chemical in grapes causes problems for dogs, but feeding dogs grapes can quickly lead to kidney failure. So grapes, including dried grapes like raisins, should never be given to dogs.
- Macadamia Nuts: Like grapes, veterinarian scientists do not know the exact chemical that causes illness in dogs. However, it is well documented that dogs who consume macadamia nuts will have issues with muscle weakness, tremors, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Raw Eggs: Beyond the risk of e coli and salmonella, there is an enzyme in uncooked eggs called avidin that can interfere with your dog’s ability to process necessary B vitamins. So it is best to cook eggs before giving them to your dog.
- Stone Fruits: Stones fruits included apples, peaches, pears, and plums can be feed to a dog if you are very careful. The problem with these fruits like with the core which contains cyanide. Cyanide is a poison that can be extremely deadly for dogs. So if you feed your dog these fruits, never give them the whole thing, give them the same parts you would eat.
People Foods That Are Beneficial
There are several people foods that are actually really good for dogs in moderation. So if you plan to feed your dog people food or are looking for ingredients to incorporate into a raw dog food diet, consider these beneficial options:
- Blueberries: Blueberries are a superfood that are loaded with antioxidants and phytonutrients. They may seem like an odd choice to feed your dog, however they are incredibly healthy.
- Broccoli: Broccoli is a great people food snack for dogs because it is loaded with vitamin C which helps strengthen their immune system and reduce stress. Broccoli also contains a lot of fiber which helps with your dog’s digestion.
- Carrots: Carrots are a great people food snack for your dog. Chewing them helps clean their teeth and they are loaded with vitamin A to help your dog have a healthy shiny coat. Plus broccoli contains a lot of fiber to keep your dog digestion regular.
- Green Beans: Green beans are a great people food for dogs. They have plenty of vitamins and minerals and are loaded with fiber. They also contain iron which helps with blood flow and energy.
- Oatmeal: Cooked oatmeal is great treat to help dogs who are having digestion issues because it contains a lot of soluble fiber. Oatmeal is an especially good people food for senior dogs.
- Salmon: Salmon is a delicious treat for dogs that is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids which help them maintain a shiny, healthy coat. Salmon should be cooked before feeding it to your dog to avoid any pathogens.
- Pumpkin: Pumpkin may be a surprising choice but dogs love it. It’s also loaded with vitamin A that is good for your dog’s skin and coat, but also contains a lot of fiber for digestion. Dogs also really love the flavor.
- Peanut Butter: Raw, unsalted peanut butter is a great source of protein and contains lots of essential vitamins and nutrients like vitamin B, vitamin E, niacin, and monounsaturated fats which help bolster energy and heart health.
- Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are also a healthy and safe people food. They contain a lot of vitamin A for a healthy coat and fiber to aid digestion.
So whether you are looking for a special treat to give your dog or some ingredients for a raw dog food, there are plenty of good people food options we can safely feed our dogs. However, some people food can be extremely dangerous. So before feeding your dog people food, consult this list and make sure it’s not anything that can be really hazardous. Just make sure you always check to see if the food you are giving your dog is beneficial or dangerous.
