10 Nutritious Human Foods For Your Dog and 5 To Keep Out Of Reach

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Did you know that innocently sharing certain human foods could be fatal for your beloved dog? Knowing which foods are beneficial and which are dangerous, you can keep your dog happy and healthy. Here is a list of 10 human foods you can feed your dog without a second thought and five you should never give your pet.

10 Dog-Friendly Human Foods

Carrots

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Carrots are crunchy vegetables that are excellent for your dog’s dental health and are low in calories. They are packed with vitamins A and C, which support healthy eyes and skin. Whether served raw or cooked, always cut carrots into bite-sized pieces to avoid choking hazards. The high fiber content in carrots also aids in digestion, making them a nutritious snack.

Apples

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They are a great low-calorie treat that offers vitamins A and C and fiber to aid digestion. Always extract the seeds and core before serving, as the seeds possess cyanide, which is toxic, and the core poses a choking hazard. Apples also contain antioxidants and can help freshen your dog’s breath.

Blueberries

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Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, helping combat free radicals and boosting your dog’s immune system. They also provide fiber and vitamins C and K. Being low in calories, they are an ideal snack for dogs that need to manage their weight. You can serve it fresh or frozen as treats or mix them into your dog’s food.

Pumpkin

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It is high in vitamins A, C, and E and provides good fiber, aiding digestive health. Pumpkin can assist with both diarrhea and constipation. Use plain canned or fresh pumpkin, avoiding any that contain added sugars or spices. Pumpkin is also low in calories and can promote a healthy urinary tract.

Green Beans

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These low-calorie treats are ideal for overweight dogs. Green beans supply vitamins K and C, along with manganese. They are rich in fiber and can help your dog feel full while aiding in weight management. Offer them fresh, steamed, or canned without added salt.

Sweet Potatoes

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Sweet potatoes are loaded with dietary fiber, beta carotene, and vitamins B6 and C, supporting your dog’s overall fitness and providing a good energy source. Serve them cooked and either mashed or in small pieces. They promote a healthy digestive system and are an excellent alternative to high-calorie treats.

Peanut Butter

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Peanut butter is a favorite treat that provides protein and healthy fats for a shiny coat. When given in moderation, peanut butter is not only delicious but also nutritious. Make sure to choose peanut butter without xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. It can be used to hide medications or as a reward during training sessions.

Chicken

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It provides your dog with protein and essential amino acids to maintain and repair muscle. Chicken is also easily digestible, making it a good option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. When serving chicken, confirm it is cooked thoroughly and plain, without any bones or seasoning. This preparation helps avoid potential risks such as choking or digestive issues.

Oatmeal

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Soluble fiber helps with bowel irregularities and is gentle on the stomach. It can also benefit skin health. Cook it plain and let it cool before serving. Oatmeal is a wonderful source of vitamins and minerals and can help manage cholesterol levels.

Salmon

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The omega-3 fatty acids support a healthy immune system, reduce inflammation, and keep the coat shiny. Salmon is also a great source of protein and can promote brain health in older dogs. To guarantee your dog’s safety, always serve salmon cooked and free of bones to prevent choking or internal injuries.

5 Human Foods That Are Harmful to Your Dog

Chocolate

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It contains toxic substances like caffeine and theobromine that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even seizures or death. The severity of the symptoms depends on the amount and type of chocolate ingested, with dark chocolate and baking chocolate being the most hazardous.

Grapes and Raisins

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These fruits are a no-no for dogs as they can cause sudden kidney failure. Your dog will experience symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and abdominal pain that will appear within hours. In severe cases, the kidney damage can be irreversible, resulting in death.

Onions and Garlic

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Compounds in these foods can damage red blood cells, causing anemia. Even small amounts can cause weakness, vomiting, and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, dogs may require blood transfusions. Both raw and cooked forms of these and onion and garlic powders often used in cooking are dangerous.

Avocado

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It includes persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. While the flesh of the avocado is less toxic, large amounts can still lead to more severe health issues, including pancreatitis. If swallowed, the pit becomes a choking hazard or could lead to intestinal blockages.

Alcohol

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Alcohol is highly hazardous to dogs and can cause severe intoxication, metabolic acidosis, and even death. Signs of alcohol poisoning comprise vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, difficulty breathing, tremors, and seizures. Dogs can be exposed to alcohol through beverages, foods containing alcohol, and even household products like hand sanitizers and cleaning solutions.

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