Human Food for Dogs: Which ones are good for my dog?
Human Food for Dogs
When it comes to owning a dog, it can be difficult not to give in to her once in a while. This is especially true with boxers, who are not shy when it comes to begging for your food. With their signature gaze into your eyes and a drool puddle forming in front of them, they do not hide their love for human food.
What Human Food Can Dogs Eat?
But, when is it OK to give in? Which human foods are actually good for my dog? Here is a list of human food for dogs that you don’t have to feel guilty about sending their way. And before you ask, no, it is not OK to give them your Chipotle burrito!
1. Cheese
I can already hear your dog celebrating. Yes, cheese is alright to give your dog, unless he/she is lactose intolerant (trust me, you’ll know). Remember to give in moderation and consider a low-fat option. Think cheese slices, not cheese blocks. (No Chipotle!)
2. Meat
Yes, most cooked meats are a great treat for your dog. We’re talking about chicken, fish, turkey, pork, etc. The lean meats are key here. Make sure the meat is cooked and try to avoid overly seasoned or processed meats (No Chipotle Steak!).
3. Most Vegetables
All of a sudden, boxers everywhere sigh in disappointment. But it’s true, most vegetables are just fine, or even great as human food for dogs. Green beans and carrots are the standouts here as great human food for dogs. DO NOT give your dog tomatoes or avocados.
4. Peanut Butter
It turns out my favorite pastime of inserting peanut butter underneath my boxer’s lip while she is asleep is actually an acceptable part of her diet. Peanut butter contains protein and vitamins that can benefit your dog. Don’t forget to feed in moderation.
5. Yogurt
Yogurt is high in protein and calcium, which makes it an acceptable human food for dogs. Try to choose a yogurt with no sugars or sweeteners and active bacteria to aid their digestive system.
6. Some Fruits
Good fruits: sliced apples (NOT the seeds), strawberries, blueberries, watermelon, frozen bananas. DO NOT feed your dog grapes, raisins, or any fruit with pits (peaches, plums, cherries, etc).
7. Eggs
Yep. Eggs.
8. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great human food for dogs as long as it is cooked and no sugar or flavor additives are present. Oatmeal is a great source of fiber, especially for older dogs that need help keeping regular bowel movements.
9. Popcorn
One of my favorite activities is movie night with my girlfriend and our boxer. As long as our popcorn doesn’t have salt or butter, I feel free to toss them across the room at her knowing that it isn’t going to hurt her (it also is great for teaching them to catch).
10. Catnip
Now I didn’t add this to the list to encourage you to give catnip to your dog, but more to let you know that it won’t hurt your pooch to ingest it. And to answer your question, no, it won’t have the same effect that it does on your cat.
So, there you have it, 10 examples of human food for dogs that won’t hurt them. In fact, many of these benefit your little buddy. So next time your pooch is hitting you up for your dinner, consider one of these alternatives to sharing your burrito (Seriously, no Chipotle!).
For a complete list of toxic foods to dogs, check out this post.
