It's hard to resist those big puppy dog eyes staring up at you while you're enjoying a snack. But before you toss your furry friend a bite, it's important to know which human foods are safe for dogs. So you're wondering, what human food can dogs eat? We have all the answers for you.
Which People Foods Are Safe For Dogs?
Dogs are naturally curious creatures and may want to try whatever you're eating. However, not all human foods are safe for dogs. In fact, some can be toxic and potentially fatal. So, it's important to do your research before sharing any snacks with your pup. Thankfully, we’ve done the research for you! Read on for what snacks you can share with your bestie, and which human food to avoid giving to your dog.
Which Human Foods Can Dogs Eat?
Plums
Yes, dogs can eat plums! These juicy fruits are full of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy snack option for your pooch. Just make sure to remove the pit, as it can be a choking hazard. We don’t want that!
Asparagus
Asparagus is a great source of fiber and vitamins for both humans and canines alike! So, feel free to share a few spears with your furry friend. Just avoid giving them the canned variety, as they could contain added salt or preservatives that are unhealthy for your dog.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a low-calorie and hydrating snack for your pup. They're also a great source of vitamins and minerals. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces to avoid choking. Or give them some yummy pure cucumber juice!
Pineapple
Pineapple is a delicious and nutritious snack for dogs. It's packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help boost their immune system. However, make sure to remove the tough outer skin and hard center before giving it to your dog.
Bananas
Bananas are a great source of potassium and fiber for dogs. They're also easy to digest, making them a perfect snack option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Just make sure to remove the peel before giving it to your dog (or to yourself).
Watermelon
Watermelon is a juicy and refreshing snack for dogs, especially during hot summer days. It's also a great source of vitamins and minerals. Always remove the seeds and rind, since they can be a choking hazard.
Cabbage
Cabbage is a great source of vitamins and antioxidants for dogs. It can also help improve their digestion and reduce inflammation. But, don’t give it to your dog raw as it can be hard for them to digest. Always cook it first! You can even cook it with chicken broth for some extra flavor and nutritional value.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that can help boost your dog's immune system. They're also low in calories, making them a great snack option for dogs who are watching their weight. Remove the stem and seeds before giving it to your pup.
Which Human Foods Can Harm Dogs?
As much as we all love sharing our food with our furry friends, not all human foods are safe for dogs to eat. In fact, some human foods can be quite harmful and even poisonous to dogs. Here are ten human foods to keep away from your pup:
Avocado
While avocado is a superfood for humans, it's definitely not safe for dogs. Avocado contains persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
Cherries
While the fruit itself is not toxic, the pits and stems contain cyanide, which can be deadly for dogs if ingested. It’s best to not give your dog cherries at all to avoid this entirely.
Chocolate
One of the most well-known human foods that can harm dogs is chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and even death in dogs.
Coffee & Caffeine
Just like chocolate, coffee and other caffeine-containing products can be dangerous for dogs. Ingestion of caffeine can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and even death in dogs.
Citrus Fruit
While small amounts of citrus fruits are not harmful, larger amounts can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. That’s not fun for anyone involved!
Cinnamon
Cinnamon in small amounts is usually okay, but large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even liver disease in dogs. Liver disease is incredibly serious, so if your dog ingests high volumes of cinnamon, head to the vet right away.
Coconut Products
Coconut in small amounts is usually safe for dogs, but coconut products like coconut oil or milk can cause upset stomach, diarrhea, and even pancreatitis if ingested in large amounts. It’s best to just avoid coconut products altogether to be safe.
Grapes & Raisins
Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure if ingested. It's best to keep them far away from your furry friend. The worst part for dogs is the outer lining of the fruit.
Onions, Garlic, & Chives
Onions, garlic, and chives can cause damage to dogs' red blood cells, leading to anemia. Ingestion of these foods can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.
Alcohol
While it should go without saying, alcohol is definitely not safe for dogs. Even small amounts of alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in dogs. Do not ever give your dog alcohol.
Final Thoughts
While it's tempting to share our food with our pups, it's important to remember that some human foods can be harmful and even deadly for our doggie best friends. If you suspect your dog has ingested any of these foods, don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care immediately.