A dog is a human's best friend. We treat them like a part of the family, not just a pet. We're all guilty of spoiling our furry friends with treats and nibbles from the table. However, you have to be careful with what people food you give your dogs.
Some things are perfectly fine for us to eat, but can be toxic or even fatal for your pups. We're going to go over which foods are good and bad for your dog.
What You Can Feed Them
Fish
Dogs love everything smelly, including fish. It's a healthy lean protein that has omega-3 fatty acids and other benefits for your pup. The best ones to give them are salmon, whitefish, and flounder.
Although you can give your dog fish, there are limitations. Don't provide them with tuna or swordfish, as these contain heavy metals such as mercury, and they can harm your furry friend.
Also, sushi or raw fish isn't a good idea because there's the possibility they'll get salmonella or listeria. Instead, give your dog some adorable pet sushi treats specifically made for them that are safe.
Peanut Butter
Your dog will love you even more if you spoil them with some peanut butter. This sticky spread can be used to disguise medicine, which is very helpful. Try to stick to natural peanut butter, as others have sugar, salt, and preservatives that aren't good for your pup.
It's high in protein and fat, so even natural peanut butter should be given in moderation. Make it a special treat after a veterinarian visit, when they do something good, or for medication.
Carrots
These orange sticks have the same crunch of bones or dog treats but are so much better. They're loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Carrots contain water and work great for dogs who have trouble going to the bathroom.
Use baby carrots or cut larger ones into bite-sized pieces, so they don't choke while munching away.
What You Can't Feed Them
Grapes and Raisins
Dried or fresh, grapes are a big "no" for dogs. Although we can enjoy the sweet fruit, for canines, grapes and raisins contain toxic compounds. This can result in rapid kidney failure and, even worse, death.
Just one can make your dog feel sick. When you're snacking on these, be extra careful that you don't drop any, as your furry friends won't understand grapes are bad for them.
It's essential to discuss this with your children too. They could think it's fun to share with their fur buddy, but they're hurting them. Do this before any accidents happen.
Chocolate
Chocolate is another one of human's favorites but is dangerous for dogs to consume. It contains caffeine and sugar, which are difficult for canines to metabolize.
Don't think that dark chocolate or cocoa powder is better. These are even more poisonous for your dog because there aren't other additives like milk and sugar. If your furry one does eat some, they'll likely vomit, have diarrhea, and become dehydrated.
Avocado
Avocados have a toxin called persin, which is poisonous for pups. It can create a build-up of fluid in their lungs, making it difficult for them to breathe and get enough oxygen. If they eat enough, this can suffocate them and cause death.
When you want to share your tacos or nachos with your canine, make sure there's no guacamole on their pieces.
The Bottom Line
One way to express love is by sharing food. We do this with people and our dogs. It's good to share human food with them because it provides various vitamins, minerals, fiber, and proteins that might not be found in their dog food.
However, do your homework before sharing it with your furry friend. You can give them things like fish, peanut butter, and carrots, but stay away from grapes, raisins, chocolate, and avocados.
* This is a contributed article and this content does not necessarily represent the views of foodworldnews.com
