In our previous article, we discussed five foods that you should never feed your pet dog. But summertime is a season of picnics and cookouts, and you may be tempted to feed your puppy off your plate. While some human foods are bad for dogs, there are some that are safe, and some are even smart dietary choices. Before heading into the backyard and throwing your dog a hamburger, check out this healthy food guide.
- Bread: Small amounts of bread are not dangerous for your dog, but bread also offers no nutritional value. Still, if you are at a barbecue and want to share your hotdog bun – your dog will be fine.
- Cheese: Dogs can safely eat cheese, and they really enjoy it – but you’ll want to choose lower-fat versions like cottage cheese or mozzarella.
- Coconut:
- Corn: Not only is corn safe for dogs, but it is the main ingredient in many popular dog foods. If your dog wants to eat off your plate, feel free to share your corn – but cut it off the cob. If your dog eats the cob it can cause intestinal blockages, so feed your dog corn kernels off the cob instead.
- Fish: Fish is a healthy choice for dogs, rich in good fats and amino acids. Salmon and sardines are excellent choices — salmon because it is nutrient-rich, and sardines because their digestible bones provide extra calcium. Never let your dog eat uncooked or undercooked fish, and limit intake to twice per week.
- Ham and pork: Ham isn’t the healthiest choice, but it is safe to feed scraps off your plate. However, unseasoned pork is a good choice. It provides a very digestible source of protein and amino acids, and is also the least likely meat to cause an allergic reaction.
- Shrimp: Tossing your dog a few shrimp during your backyard party is fine, but make sure they are fully cooked (no shrimp cocktail) and the shell is completely removed. Shrimp is rich in antioxidants, vitamin B-12, and phosphorus.
Tuna: Your dog can enjoy tuna in small quantities. Cooked, fresh tuna provides omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and eye health. Canned tuna has small amounts of mercury and sodium, which should not be consumed in excess – but you can occasionally add some tuna and tuna water (not oil) from the can for a treat.
Turkey: Turkey is safe for dogs, but only after the fat and skin are removed. Check the meat carefully to ensure all bones have been removed, as poultry bones can splinter and cause internal blockages and tears. Any meat with salt, seasonings, onions, or garlic should not be fed to canines.
Yogurt: Dogs enjoy plain yogurt, which is perfectly safe. However, some dogs do have a problem digesting dairy. As long as your pet is not lactose intolerant, the active bacteria in yogurt provide probiotics and strengthen the digestive system. Avoid flavored yogurts and any with artificial sweeteners or added sugar.
At Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training, we care about the health and safety of all dogs. Call us today if you need a professional dog training facility or are looking for obedience training classes in Sarasota or Manatee County.
