Whether you are looking at begging puppy eyes, they were too quick when some of your dinner spilled on the floor, or you are looking to find new tasty treats for your pup, we’ve all turned to the google search bar with the words “Can my dog eat?” We are here to help! We’ve gathered a few of the most commonly asked about foods in our clinic into one place, to help keep your pup safe and healthy!
Fruits and Veggies:
Many fruits and veggies make an excellent snack for your dog! Just as they are healthy for us, they contain vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and more! However, there are a few that can be toxic to your pup and cause major health threats, so make sure to make note of those to keep them far from your pup’s menu!
Can my dog eat bananas?
Yes, they certainly can! They are a healthy snack that is high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, and fiber, and are low in cholesterol and sodium. They are, however, a bit high in sugar, so we suggest you use the sweet treats in moderation.
Can my dog eat watermelons?
Yes! Watermelons are a great snack, especially during the summer as they are very hydrating. They are high in potassium, Vitamin C, A, B6, and fiber. However, they do require a bit of caution here - make sure to take all seeds out and avoid feeding them the rind, as they can cause intestinal damage and GI distress
Can my dog eat apples?
Sure thing, they can! Apples offer a great source of vitamin C & A, potassium, antioxidants, and fiber. They are great for digestion, and they actually can help keep your pups teeth clean! However, word of caution - the seeds can be toxic for your pup, as they contain a small amount of cyanide, which can cause gastrointestinal distress. We also recommend not feeding your dog large amounts of apple, as they can be high in sugar and cause diarrhea.
Can my dog eat carrots?
They sure can! Both raw and cooked carrots are a healthy, low calorie snack for your pup, and are high in vitamins, minerals, fibers.
Can my dog eat blueberries?
Yes, blueberries are great for your dog! Blueberries are an excellent source of antioxidants, and provide a large amount of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Plus - they are low in sugar and calories overall! Same goes with blackberries - also a great snack for your pup!
Can my dog eat grapes?
No, they certainly cannot. Grapes, including raisins are very toxic to your dog, and high amounts can even lead to rapid kidney failure and death. Even small amounts can make your dog sick, so make sure to keep them away from your dog.
Can my dog eat onions or garlic?
These ones are a big no! Onions and garlic contain compounds that are toxic to your dog. They can damage your pup’s red blood cells, and reduce their ability to carry oxygen. Make sure to look out for garlic and onion powders, as well!
Can my dog eat avocado?
This, although surprising, is also a big no. Avocados contain a toxin called persin, which can be very poisonous for dogs, leading to fluid accumulation in their lungs and chest. Make sure to keep these off the menu for your pup!
Can my dog eat lemons/limes?
Lemons and limes are dangerous for your pup, as their skins contain psoralen, which can cause GI distress.
Animal Products
Just like fruits and veggies, some animal products can also be a great addition to your pup's diet, while others should be given with caution!
Can my dog eat eggs?
They surely can - they are actually very healthy for your pup and are fed to pups when their bellies are upset. They are easily digestible, high in protein and essential fatty acids. We do recommend that they are cooked before feeding, as there is always a risk of salmonella. If raw eggs are eaten, no need to be alarmed quite yet, but be on the lookout for GI distress such as vomiting and diarrhea.
Can my dog eat cheese?
This is a great question. Although cheese and other dairy products are not toxic nor necessarily dangerous for your dog, we do not recommend feeding large amounts to your dog. Like a few of our human friends, many dogs are lactose intolerant, and eating dairy can cause upset. If your pup does get into cheese or other dairy products, we suggest you monitor them closely to ensure there are no adverse effects.
Can my dog eat chicken?
This is a yes! Chicken is a great source of digestible protein for your pup. Some people even substitute chicken for their kibble a few times a week. Just remember: avoid raw chicken, as there is always a risk of salmonella. Also remember to take out all bones before feeding your pup chicken, as bird bones are thin and can splinter in their mouth, esophagus, or digestive tract, causing blockage or damage.
Can my dog eat pork?
Pork is safe for dogs to eat, but only in its simplest form, without added spices, seasonings, sauces. Pork that has been processed, such as ham or bacon, should never be fed to your dog either - we know, they love bacon, but these forms are extremely high in salt and can be very harmful.
Can my dog eat beef?
Lean beef is indeed safe for your dog! It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. As with many other foods on this list, just make it plain beef without sauces, butter, seasonings, or onions/garlic.
Other
And then, there are the other treats that we love to give our dogs from the human table!
Can my dog eat peanut butter?
To their delight, yes, peanut butter is safe for your pup friend. Although we all wish we can eat peanut butter by the spoonfuls, it is important for your dog to enjoy it in moderation, as it is high in calories and fat. It is also best to get peanut butter with peanuts as their only ingredient, as the additives such as sugar, other oils, or excessive salt can be dangerous for your dog. Please also make sure that the peanut butter you are giving them does not contain an artificial sweetener named xylazine, as this is very toxic for your dog.
Can my dog eat chocolate?
As many of us know, chocolate is not safe for our dogs. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are both unsafe for dogs, as they cannot metabolize them properly.
Can my dog eat popcorn?
Popcorn in itself is ok for your dog to eat, but the danger comes in with the added salt and oils. Air-popped, plain popcorn is best if you want to feed your dog popcorn. Just note that popcorn kernels pose a choking hazard, and they can get stuck in their teeth (we’ve all been there!) so treat with caution.
Can my dogs eat macadamia nuts?
Macadamia nuts are not safe for your pup, as they often lead to vomiting, muscle weakness, tremors, and hyperthermia. Make sure to keep your dog away from these nuts when you have them in your kitchen!
Can my dogs have coffee or tea?
This is a big no, as they contain caffeine, which is highly unsafe for your dog. Caffeine stimulates their nervous system, which can lead to hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhea, elevated heart rate, and seizures. Anything with caffeine should be kept away from your dog!
Can my dog eat nutmeg?
Although something that you may not think of when you are feeding your dog, nutmeg is in many baked goods, which your dog may find with or without permission. Nutmeg unfortunately is not safe for your dogs! It contains myristicin, which can cause disorientation, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and stomach pain. Make sure to keep all tasty baked treats away from your dog!
