As high-quality dog food becomes increasingly expensive and difficult to find, dog parents want to know, if it is acceptable to feed your dog human food daily.
First it is important to understand that the nutritional needs of our K-9 children are different than ours. Furthermore, there are many human foods that we enjoy but that are downright poisonous to our fur babies. Dog’s have complex nutritional needs and tolerances that have been studied by experts and formulated into high quality dog food products. The nutritional balance in premium dog food is precise, and the serving sizes have been devised for optimal muscle and body mass for various breeds. This level of precision feeding would be difficult to attain through a completely homemade diet of human food.
However, if you are struggling to find the enough of the quality products your dog needs, you can begin supplementing his kibbles with other food. Do not give your dog only human food, or he will reject dog food altogether and miss out on the nutritional benefit this food provides.
First, you will need to research your breed’s specific dietary requirements and provide him with a balance of macro and micronutrients. This diet will probably include a variety of animal protein, vegetables and possibly some grains. Avoid giving your pup the same food every day to make sure he is getting a healthy balance of nutrients.
Whether you are using human food to supplement your dog’s meals or only as snacks, it is vital for all dog parent to know which human foods are appropriate for K-9s in general. According to the American Kennel Club the following foods are generally safe for most breeds:
- Fully cooked salmon, fish (no bones), and shrimp (shell, tail, head and legs removed) no more than twice a week.
- Tuna sparingly and only in small amounts
- Beef, Chicken (no bones) and Turkey (no bones)
- Eggs
- Milk, Cheese and Plain Yogurt all in small to moderate amounts but be careful as some dogs are lactose intolerant
- Quinoa, Wheat, Corn and Grains all starches that most dogs can tolerate in moderate amounts
- Peanuts, Raw Peanut butter and Cashews in moderate amounts due to high fat content
- Popcorn (unsalted, unbuttered and air popped) in moderation
- Bread in moderation
- Honey in small amounts
- Coconut in small amounts
- Apples, Bananas, Blueberries, Cranberries, Cantaloupe, Watermelon, Cucumbers, Oranges, Cucumbers, Peaches, Mangos, Pears, Pineapple, Pumpkin, Raspberries and Strawberries all in small amounts as a treat
- Broccoli, Carrots, Celery, Green Beans, Peas, Spinach and Brussel sprouts
The following foods should not be given to your dog at all and could cause gastric distress or even death:
- Almonds and Macadamia Nuts
- Onions and Garlic
- Chocolate and Cinnamon
- Ice cream and pastries (due to sugar content)
- Grapes and Raisins
- Avocados, Tomatoes, Mushrooms and Asparagus
You may use the above lists as a general guideline, but always confirm with your veterinarian your dog’s specific dietary needs and tolerances.
