Our furry friends deserve the best when it comes to their diet. While commercial dog food has its perks, sometimes it’s fun to treat our pups with some tasty and nutritious human foods. Now, before you start throwing a steak at your dog’s face, let’s dive into a list of 15 healthy human foods that will have your pup begging for more.
Plus, if you’re wondering, “what can I add to my dog’s kibble every day?” to boost its nutritional value, we’ve got you covered. Just remember, moderation is key, and always check with your vet to ensure these foods are suitable for your dog’s unique needs. Let’s get those tails wagging!
1. Peanut Butter: The Paw-some Powerhouse
This creamy and delectable treat isn’t just for our taste buds—it’s also a healthy source of protein and healthy fats for our canine companions.1 Make sure to choose a peanut butter brand that doesn’t contain xylitol, as it can be toxic to dogs.2 Spread a spoonful on a toy or use it as a delicious ingredient in homemade dog treats.
2. Sweet Potato: The Super Veggie
Move over, regular potatoes, because sweet potatoes are taking the spotlight! Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes are a fantastic addition to your pup’s diet. Mash them, bake them into sweet potato fries, or incorporate them into homemade dog food recipes for an extra dose of nutritional goodness. For an extra boost of nutrition, you can incorporate some superfoods for dogs into your furry friend’s diet like blueberries or salmon for an extra nutritious treat.
3. Green Beans: The Crunchy Delight
Who knew those green beans sitting in your pantry could be such a hit with your furry friend? Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy snack or addition to your dog’s meal. Serve them raw as a crunchy treat or lightly steam them for a more tender texture.
4. Salmon: The Fin-tastic Feast
Salmon is not only a tasty delicacy for humans but also a nutritional powerhouse for our canine pals. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a healthy coat and support joint health, salmon can be a great addition to your dog’s diet. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and doesn’t contain any seasoning or added ingredients that could be harmful to dogs.
5. Brown Rice: The Grainy Goodness
If you’re looking to add some healthy carbohydrates to your dog’s diet, brown rice is here to save the day! It’s a great source of energy and provides dietary fiber for healthy digestion. Mix it with lean protein, such as chicken or beef, for a wholesome and filling meal.
6. Chicken: The Classic Favorite
Chicken—a timeless favorite for both humans and dogs alike! It’s an excellent source of lean protein and amino acids, which are essential for muscle growth and repair. Remember to remove the skin and bones before serving, and always cook the chicken thoroughly to avoid any risks of bacteria.
7. Cottage Cheese: The Creamy Treat
If your doggo is a fan of all things creamy, cottage cheese is a fantastic choice. Packed with protein and calcium, it can be a healthy addition to your pup’s diet. Just make sure to choose a low-sodium option and feed it in moderation, as some dogs may be lactose intolerant.
8. Carrots: The Crunchy Munch
Crunch, crunch! Carrots make a satisfying and healthy snack for your furry friend. Packed with vitamins and dietary fiber, these orange wonders are great for your dog’s dental health too. Serve them raw as a crunchy treat or cook them lightly for a softer texture.
9. Eggs: The Versatile Superfood
Eggs are a great source of high-quality protein and contain essential amino acids that benefit your dog’s overall health. Serve them scrambled, boiled, or even as a tasty ingredient in homemade dog food recipes.
10. Apples: The Fruit of Health
An apple a day keeps the vet away! Well, maybe not entirely, but apples are still a healthy and delicious snack for your furry friend. They’re low in calories and contain vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. Just remember to remove the seeds and core before sharing this fruity delight with your pup.
11. Pumpkin: The Fall Favorite
When autumn rolls around, pumpkin takes center stage in our kitchens, but did you know it’s also great for our canine companions? Pumpkin is loaded with fiber and helps support healthy digestion. You can serve it cooked or canned (just make sure it’s pure pumpkin without any added sugars or spices).
12. Blueberries: The Berry Best
These little blue gems are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients for dogs, including antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Give your dog a handful of blueberries as a refreshing snack or mix them into their meals for an extra burst of nutritional goodness. It’s like a fruity explosion in every bite!
13. Spinach: The Green Goodness
Our four-legged friends can benefit from this leafy green! Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. Add some cooked spinach to your dog’s meal or mix it into homemade treats for that extra healthy twist.
14. Oatmeal: The Breakfast Bonanza
Who doesn’t love a warm bowl of oatmeal in the morning? It turns out that dogs enjoy it too! Oatmeal is a fantastic source of dietary fiber and can help soothe an upset stomach. Cook up a bowl for your pup, making sure to avoid any added sugars or flavors.
15. Watermelon: The Refreshing Delight
When the summer heat hits, nothing beats a juicy slice of watermelon. Lucky for our furry friends, they can enjoy this refreshing treat too! Watermelon is hydrating and low in calories, making it a great snack to keep your dog cool and satisfied. Just remember to remove the seeds and rind before sharing.
Remember, when preparing homemade dog food or incorporating these ingredients into your dog’s diet, it’s important to ensure a balanced and complete nutritional profile. Consult with your vet or a veterinary nutritionist to determine the appropriate portions and ratios of these ingredients based on your dog’s specific nutritional needs for pet food, whether they are a large or small breed.
Discover Quality Dog Food With BARK
So there you have it—15 healthy human foods that are sure to make your pup’s tail wag with joy! When serving your pups these healthy treats it’s important that you introduce new foods gradually, watch for any allergic reactions or digestive issues, and always consult with your vet before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. And one of the best ways to incorporate these fun foods into your pal’s diet is by pairing them with regular dog food. If you need help finding quality dog food, we can help.
At BARK, we understand that there is a vast amount of reputable dog food brands to choose from. It’s important that you do your research to find the best one but if you need a place to start, BARK food may be perfect for you. We offer healthy and delicious dog food made by nutritionists and delivered straight to your door. Now go ahead and whip up some tasty treats including both dog food and healthy human food that is nutritious for your furry friend!
Sources:
- Wag Walking. 5 Nutritional Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs. https://wagwalking.com/wellness/5-nutritional-benefits-of-peanut-butter-for-dogs
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/xylitol-toxicity-in-dogs
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