What human foods are safe for dogs to eat? Here's what is and isn't safe for your pet.
Are you getting bored of the same old dog treats or looking to avoid buying an expensive name brand?
The Spruce Pets estimates the average American spends between $250 and $700 per year on dog food and treats. And while regulated dog food has everything your dog needs to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, a little bit of human food can make for a tasty treat as long as it's not toxic for them.
So how do you know what's safe? Here’s what you need to know about each food item below:
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What foods can dogs eat?
Apples
Yes, dogs can eat apples. Because they are high in vitamins A and C, are low in calories and contain lots of fiber, they can be a healthy snack.
Avocados
No, dogs should not eat avocados. They contain persin, which is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea and other health issues.
Bananas
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. Because they contain vitamins B6 and C, as well as potassium and fiber, bananas can be a healthy treat, though they shouldn’t be eaten in large quantities because of their high sugar content.
Blueberries
Yes, dogs can eat frozen or fresh blueberries without a problem. Because they’re low in calories and high in fiber and vitamin C, they make a healthy snack. But be aware that they are a potential choking hazard.
Broccoli
Yes, dogs can eat broccoli, but feeding them too much can cause gastric irritation. While the snack has vitamin C and fiber, it also contains isothiocyanates, which can upset your pup’s stomach.
Carrots
Yes, dogs can eat carrots, as long as you cut them into small pieces they can swallow. In addition to providing your pet with vitamin A, potassium and fiber, cold or frozen carrots can also help a teething puppy.
Cat food
Yes, dogs can eat cat food, but it shouldn’t consistently be part of their diet. Cat food is much higher in protein and lacks some nutrients dogs need. Your dog might like the high protein content, but cat food should only be used as an occasional treat.
Chocolate
No, dogs should not eat chocolate. Be aware you may need to take your dog for an urgent visit to the vet because, if your dog eats enough of it, it can become sick and even die. Follow these steps to help you diagnose how dangerous of a situation your pup is in.
Cucumbers
Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers, which are low in calories, fat and sodium. Cucumbers can also be hydrating, since they are mostly made of water. If the cucumber has been pickled, do not feed it to your dog because salt and spices used in this process could harm your dog.
Eggs
Yes, eggs can be a good source of protein, vitamins A and B12 and fatty acids, but this should only be an occasional treat. You should not feed your dog raw eggs because it increases the risk of salmonella infection and biotin deficiency.
Garlic
No, dogs cannot eat garlic. Anything belonging to the Allium plant genus is toxic to dogs and cats, and garlic is the most toxic of the group, especially in its more concentrated powder form. This is because the oxidizing agents in garlic destroy red blood cells and prevent dogs' organs from getting enough oxygen. This can cause hemolytic anemia, which can lead to various health complications and even death.
Gluten
Yes, dogs can eat gluten. Like some humans, some dogs may have trouble digesting gluten and can even have celiac disease. Most dogs, though, can process gluten proteins just fine.
Grapes
No, dogs should not eat grapes or raisins, as they can have lethal effects. Even a single grape or raisin could quickly cause issues such as vomiting, diarrhea or sudden kidney failure. If your dog has eaten a grape, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Mango
Yes, dogs can eat mangoes. Mangoes are full of vitamins A, C, B6, E and potassium, which are beneficial to dogs. But because the fruit is high in sugar, limit their mango consumption to small amounts. Mango seeds, on the other hand, are not safe because they are choking hazards and contain trace amounts of cyanide.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is technically safe for dogs, but there's no real health benefit. While the oats themselves aren't toxic, other ingredients in a bowl of oatmeal may be harmful, like raisins, chocolate or sugar substitutes. On the other hand, oatmeal works as a gentle and moisturizing agent in many dog shampoos and is good for sensitive skin.
Onions
No, onions are toxic to dogs and can cause hemolytic anemia, a low red blood cell count that results in various health complications and even death. Onion powder is especially toxic because it's a concentrated form of the vegetable.
Oranges
Yes, oranges are safe for your dog to eat. But this doesn't mean they're healthy – the acidity can cause gastrointestinal issues just like it would for humans. Orange peels, however, contain essential oils that are poisonous to dogs.
Pineapple
Yes, ripe, raw pineapple can make a good treat alternative. It's packed with vitamin B6 and potassium and can benefit your dog's immune system and digestion. But because pineapple is high in sugar, owners should take caution and feed it to their dogs in moderation. Its high fiber content can also cause gastrointestinal issues if consumed in excess.
Popcorn
Yes, dogs can have popcorn, but it's not nutritionally beneficial. The magnesium, zinc, fiber and other minerals they could get from popcorn will already be in their dog food. Owners should be mindful that toppings, like butter or salt, can cause upset stomachs or weight gain.
Pumpkin
Yes, regular canned pumpkin is veterinarian-backed to help with digestive issues or diarrhea. It's also a good source of fiber. Just make sure it's not canned pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin seeds are also not toxic to dogs, but they have no real nutritional benefits and too many may cause an upset stomach.
Raw meat
Yes, dogs can eat raw meat because of their stomach acids, which are stronger than humans'. Dogs living on raw meat, though, are more likely to have nutritional deficiencies, so a raw diet is probably not a good idea in the long run.
Strawberries
Yes, dogs can eat strawberries. In addition to providing vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants, strawberries can help dogs’ skin and coat health. Make sure your dog doesn’t eat too many because the high sugar content can upset its stomach.
Tomatoes
Yes, dogs can eat tomatoes — but only if they are ripe. Tomatoes, members of the nightshade family, contain a toxin called solanine, which exists in higher concentrations in unripe tomatoes, as well as the stems and leaves. So make sure your dog eats only ripe, red tomatoes. You should also avoid feeding your dog tomato products like sauces or soups.
Watermelon
Yes, dogs can eat watermelon with certain precautions. The seeds can lead to intestinal blockage, and the rind can cause tummy trouble, so make sure to remove those parts before serving. Watermelon contains potassium, fiber and several vitamins, so it’s good for your dog in moderation.
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Contributing: Clare Mulroy
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What can dogs eat? Here's what is and isn't safe for dogs to consume.