Whether you’re looking to give your dog a treat, feed them a holistic diet or your furry friend ate something they weren’t supposed to – here’s a list of 20 surprising human foods that are safe for dogs to eat.
1. Eggs
Eggs are very safe for dogs and can improve their nutrition when added to their diet. They are high in protein, vitamins and fatty acids that can help to improve your K9’s health inside and out.
2. Oat
Oats are a great way for your dog to get their dose of carbohydrates and can even help with maintaining a healthy coat thanks to vitamin B. Omega-6 fatty acids are also present in oats, making it a great way to promote healthy and strong skin.
3. Pumpkin
Puree of pumpkin is a great treat for any dog and can even help those with sensitive stomachs or digestion problems. There is soluble fiber in pumpkins that can add bulk to your dog’s stool by absorbing water. Pumpkin can also stimulate intestinal sodium and water absorption, lowering the pH level of your dog’s large intestines.
4. Kale
Just like humans, kale can help promote vision health. It is packed with calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron which can foster good bone and heart health as well as liver detoxification and can aid in fighting off infections.
5. Parsley
Parsley is so easy to grow in your garden and offers a variety of health benefits for your dog – not to mention the perfect taco topping for you! It is rich in many important vitamins like vitamin K, C, and A. It can even help with freshening breath and aid in itch relief. BE AWARE: Only feed curly parsley to your furry friend as other varieties can be toxic.
6. Kelp
Kelp and nori are both seaweed and can be a great supplement when added to your pet’s diet. It is a high protein plant that is packed with amino acids that provide energy and strengthen immune systems. Always be sure to feed your dog unsalted and unflavored seaweed.
7. Ginger
Just like pumpkin, listed above, ginger is a great treat for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Fresh ginger root is packed with antioxidants and is anti-inflammatory which can help to promote healthy blood circulation and heart health. Although fresh ginger root provides the ultimate benefits to your dog, your furry friend can indulge in dried ground ginger or freshly juiced ginger root.
8. Blueberries
High in antioxidants, blueberries are a delicious and nutritious treat for your dog. They can help prevent cell damage in both humans and dogs, so why not consider sharing a serving with your pup.
9. Carrots
Carrots are a wonderful low-calorie snack for your pooch. They are high in fiber and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. It’s also worth noting that dogs love crunching on carrots which can help promote improved oral health when eaten regularly.
10. Tomatoes
In moderation, tomatoes are a great supplement to add to your dog’s diet. They have a lot of fiber, which helps support your dog’s digestion. They also have antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help with tissue growth and cell function. Since tomatoes contain trace amounts of toxins, ingesting a large amount of them can lead to tomato poisoning. However, this is incredibly rare and shouldn’t keep you from feeding your dog tomatoes.
11. Apples
Crunchy and sweet, apples make the best treat! Add on some peanut butter (no xylitol of course) and you’ve got a mouth watering, healthy treat for your pup. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. They are low in protein and fat, making them the perfect snack for senior dogs. BE AWARE: Remove the seeds and core first.
12. Shiitake Mushrooms
Because shiitake mushrooms are not found in the wild, they are safe for dogs to eat. Other mushroom varieties found in the wild can be toxic and should be avoided.
13. Broccoli
As long as it is plain and not covered in a sauce or seasonings, dogs can eat both cooked and raw broccoli. Your dog will enjoy the crunch and you will be happy to know that it has vitamin K to promote strong bones. Always be sure to start with small quantities of broccoli as it contains isothiocyanates, which can cause gastric irritation in dogs.
14. Oranges
If your dog isn’t put off by the strong citrus smell, the inside of oranges can be a refreshing snack for your pup that provide an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Always discard the peel as it could contain trace amounts of pesticides.
15. Beans
This is an odd one and you may find yourself asking, “can dogs eat beans?” Simply put, yes. Many beans, when cooked correctly, provide a great healthy food source for your pup, but should never exceed 10% of their daily diet and should remain an occasional snack at most. Some beans are unsafe for dogs and some dogs can have a sensitivity or allergic reaction to certain foods, so new treats should be tested first.
If you’re ever in doubt about the safety of an ingredient that your dog ate, it’s best to check in with your veterinarian – especially if your dog isn’t acting like themselves or becomes lethargic.