What are some healthy treats for your dog? It’s not a good idea to feed your dog every scrap from your plate, as tempting as it may be. The digestive system of dogs differs from ours in several ways. Meals that are safe for humans can be fatal to our dogs, but that doesn’t mean you’ll never be able to share “human foods” with your canine companion. Fruits and vegetables (without added sugar, sauces, spices, sugar substitutes, or salt) can be a safe and healthful supplement to your dog’s diet. All foods, whether healthy or not, should be consumed in moderation. Treats should be given as supplemental snacks that should not exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake.
You also want to make sure you’re not mistakenly feeding your canine companion something poisonous. The ASPCA has a handy list to assist you to figure out what to avoid. According to Stern, corn cobs can induce a clog in a dog’s system, requiring emergency surgery. Grapes and raisins, garlic, onions, leeks, chives, and avocados, among other fruits and vegetables, can cause organ failure or even death. This is also why seasoned foods should be avoided—even a splash of garlic on some grilled chicken strips could result in a trip to the vet.
You can safely give your dog certain human foods as a special treat as long as you know what to avoid while feeding him. Your dog will appreciate it and benefit from the added nutrients, and you will get a chance to interact with him over a shared meal. Check out these nutritious human foods that your dog can eat—in moderation, of course.
Beans, green
Green beans are a delicious treat for your dog. When eaten raw, they are low in calories, high in fiber, and have a pleasing crunch. Your dog will be a happy dog if you feed him a few washed green beans. Remove any salt or butter from the green beans before giving them to your dog if you wish to serve them steamed.
Pumpkin
Your dog will love pumpkin this time of year. It shouldn’t be seasoned or sweetened, and it shouldn’t contain any artificial substances or seeds. Pumpkin has high moisture content and adds extra fiber, which can help cure and prevent diarrhea and constipation. In tiny doses, it’s beneficial, and we recommend it as a special treat. Your dog will benefit from a modest amount of simple pumpkin every now and again.
Carrots
Did you know that the majority of dogs enjoy eating baby carrots? They make an excellent weight reduction snack at only four calories each.
Carrots are also abundant in vitamin A and a good source of fiber. Baby carrots are very mild on their canine bellies and rarely cause flatulence, making them an excellent reward alternative.
Butternut Squash
When giving your dog a spoonful of peanut butter, keep in mind the other ingredients in the mixture. Many peanut butter types contain the poisonous chemical xylitol, which is a common sweetener that is particularly unhealthy for your pet. Ask your vet if there are any dog-safe versions of raw, unsweetened, and unsalted peanut butter.
Apples, sliced
Sliced apples are another healthy human delight that is also a healthy canine snack. Before giving your dog an apple, make sure it is cored and free of seeds. Apples are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a good source of fiber for your dog,
Oats, cooked
Oatmeal is beneficial for dogs and may be baked into treats like the Peanut Butter, Pumpkin, and Oat Football Treats from the ASPCA. You can also offer your dog cooked oats to supplement his soluble fiber intake for the day. No flavorings should be added to the oatmeal, which should be unsweetened and unsalted. Your dog will enjoy plain, normal oats as a treat.
Popcorn that has been air-popped
Popcorn has some impressive health benefits: It’s a low-calorie whole grain that’s also high in fiber and antioxidants, according to scientists. Air-popped popcorn has roughly 35 calories per cup and is delicious. Popcorn bits make it simple to give your dog a snack throughout the day without overfeeding them. Popcorn loses its healthful halo when it is smothered with butter and salt. Instead, try this simple (and economical) microwave method for preparing healthier popcorn: Place two teaspoons popcorn kernels in a paper lunch bag, fold the top down twice to close, and microwave for two to three minutes, or until popping has almost stopped (makes three cups). Simply check to see if your popcorn has been seasoned with butter, salt, or other ingredients.
Cooked Lean Chicken
Chicken can be prepared as a special treat for your dog. To cut down on fat, the chicken should be unseasoned and the skins removed. Cook the chicken thoroughly before cutting it into little pieces that your dog can chew and swallow. Serve alongside your dog’s usual food or as an incentive for good behavior. The additional protein is delicious, and your dog will like it. Contact Charlotte Kennels for any more suggestions.