PETS

HUMAN FOODS HUMAN FOODS

THAT ARE GOOD FOR YOUR DOG

By Del Griffith

Most people want to make their dog truly feel like part of the family. To do this, many pet owners want to share their meals and their snacks with their dogs. There are many stories about dogs who became sick because of the human foods that they were fed. It is true that certain human foods are dangerous to dogs. However, there are some human foods that are actually beneficial for your dog to eat. If you are looking to add some human food to your dog’s diet, here are some surprising foods to try out.

Carrots

Raw carrots are a good option for dogs The rigidity of the carrot can help remove some plaque from your dog’s teeth and improve their overall dental hygiene. In addition, carrots are a great source of vitamin A which helps improve your dog’s immune system and coat appearance. Carrots are an underestimated human food that can safely be given to dogs, but too much can be dangerous. Only feed them this food in moderation.

Popcorn

If you are enjoying popcorn with your movie, you may also want to share this snack with your dog. Plain popcorn with no butter or seasoning is a great option for dogs. It is important that you only feed them popped popcorn and do not give them any small kernels. Popcorn contains magnesium, zinc and other minerals that are healthy for dogs to ingest. Not only will they enjoy this snack, but it is also healthy for them.

Blueberries

According to the AKC, blueberries are a great option for dogs. Blueberries contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which all offer extraordinary benefits for dogs. Blueberries are a great snack for dogs because they are low in calories and can help improve the overall diet and nutrition of your dog. The antioxidants in this fruit are thought to help improve the health of animals and their overall mental state, according to a 2012 study found in Molecular Basis of Disease. They are ideal for older dogs and can even help improve memory and cognition of puppies.

Fish

Fish is a great option for dogs to consume, as long as there are no bones. The best options include salmon and tuna because they do not contain bones when prepared properly. They provide ideal sources of protein and omega fatty acids. This can help improve your dog’s immune system and keep their coat looking clean and silky. If you are going to feed fish to your dog, it must be cooked properly. Uncooked fish can be dangerous for humans and dogs alike because it can contain harmful parasites that can cause illness and even death.

Watermelon

Watermelon is a delicious summer snack for both humans and dogs. If you want to offer some watermelon to your dog, it is critical that you first remove all the seeds (or choose a seedless variety) and the rind. The seeds and rind can cause digestive issues. Watermelon is a great way to keep your dog hydrated on hot days due to it’s high water content. It contains high amounts of essential vitamins that can support your dog's health.

If you want to share your food with your furry friend, try starting with these foods. Always offer foods in moderation and make sure that there is no negative reaction. Every dog is different and it is important to see how they react before giving them too much. While these foods are safe for dogs and can provide health benefits for your dog, you can always reach out to your veterinarian to learn more.