From dental health to digestive well-being, lean proteins to polyunsaturated fats—we're spilling the beans on five of the best human foods for dogs. Speaking of beans: They're on this list!
Supercharge your dog’s diet with these 5 human foods
Next time you're snacking, and your pup's longing eyes catch yours, reach for these guilt-free, yummo eats you can both feel good about!
Green beans
Whether French beans or snake beans, raw or cooked, green beans are a nutritional powerhouse for our canine BFFs! Their mild, natural sweetness also makes them a pupper favourite.
At a glance:
- These legumes are low-calorie but filling thanks to their gut-healthy, high-fibre content.
- Vitamins A, B6, C, and K (plus folic acid) work wonders for immune, vision, and reproductive health.
- Beans are rich in calcium, a macromineral needed for strong bones and teeth, and trace mineral iron, required by red blood cells to carry oxygen, produce energy and maintain a robust immune system.
Serving reminders:
- Stay away from canned (high sodium, seasoned) beans.
- Long beans can be a choking hazard! Slice appropriately.
- Large quantities can cause an upset tummy or a fit of farting. 🤭
Carrots
They're a universal favourite, so chances are you always have some in the fridge. That's good news for our pups because these tasty root vegetables are a doggy superfood and super versatile! 🥕
At a glance:
- Carrots are a low-fat, low-calorie vegetable packed with dietary fibre that can balance blood cholesterol levels.
- Beta-carotene, vitamins C, K, B6, and B12, and vital minerals (potassium, magnesium, and phosphorous) contribute to overall immune, skin & coat, eye, neuromuscular, and bone health.
- Their satisfying crunch makes baby carrots the perfect dental chew against plaque and tartar build-up.
Serving reminders:
- Always wash and peel carrots if you're worried about trace pesticides and chemical fertilisers.
- Dogs can't metabolise raw carrots, so they're more nutritious when cooked.
- Boil, steam, bake, puree—but don't add fats (butter, oils), seasoning, alliums (they're toxic), or other aromatics.
Salmon
Atlantic salmon frequently tops the list of healthiest fish. Fortunately, it's just as wholesome for canines! There's another advantage. Even picky eaters love the smell, taste, and texture of this high-quality (but lean) meat.
At a glance:
- Salmon is abundant in anti-inflammatory Omega-3 fatty acids. They help keep your dog's skin and coat healthy and shiny. ✨
- It's packed with all 9 amino acids that aid in building and repairing muscle tissues.
- Salmon is an excellent source of B vitamins necessary for proper brain and nervous system function.
Serving reminders:
- Always scale and debone fish before serving!
- Never give your canine raw or undercooked salmon. It may contain parasites that can cause salmon poisoning disease in dogs.
- Proceed cautiously if your doggo is already on fish oil supplements. Excessive consumption can lead to an overdose.
Papaya
Sweet, soft, melt-in-your-mouth goodness! This juicy tropical fruit is packed with micronutrients, natural antioxidants, and fibre to keep your dog "regular" if you know what we mean. 😉
At a glance:
- Papayas are rich in immune-supporting vitamins (A, C, K, and E) and essential minerals like potassium.
- Papain and chymopapain enzymes help with digestion and the absorption of nutrients.
- Papain is an anti-inflammatory that may reduce swelling, help fight infection, and heal wounds.
Serving reminders:
- Papayas should be ripe, peeled, deseeded, and served in bite-sized pieces to prevent choking and digestive troubles.
- Give less than a teaspoon for mini dog breeds and no more than 1/4 cup for extra-large dogs.
- Best served fresh, as is or in smoothie form!
Watermelon
Summer's always around the bend, so we're throwing in a delicious thirst quencher that's vitamin-filled (vitamins A, B6, and C) and safe for dogs of all ages! P.S. Did you know watermelons are berries? 🤯
At a glance:
- With a 92% water content, watermelons are a hydrating treat on hot summer days!
- They are rich in beta-carotene and lycopene, antioxidants that may protect against heart disease and certain cancers.
- It has ZERO fat, cholesterol, or sodium, but it is a sugar bomb, so limit this to an occasional treat.
Serving reminders:
- Unsuitable for diabetic dogs.
- Stick to seedless watermelons and remove the rind.
- Feed fresh or frozen in bite-sized chunks. Portion size ranges from 1 to 2 slices to a handful for XL breeds.
And there you have it: Five human foods that pack a healthful punch for doggies!
Everything in moderation
While certain human foods are safe for dogs, too much of a good thing is still bad.
Overfeeding and overeating can cause:
- Digestive issues like tummy aches, bloating, and diarrhoea or constipation
- Nutrition-related conditions like obesity and diabetes
- Worsening of existing illnesses like thyroid disease
Think of it this way. You benefit from eating an apple a day, but a bushel's worth does more harm than good. So treats, no matter how nutritious, should make up no more than 10% of your doggy's daily caloric intake. Finally, consult your vet before introducing human foods or changing your pet’s diet.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. It is not and does not intend to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information on this website is at your own risk. Always consult with your veterinarian.
