Welcome to “What Can Dogs Eat? Best Dog-Friendly Diet Guide,” where we unravel the mysteries of crafting a wholesome and nutritious diet for your furry companion. As pet owners, we share a profound responsibility to ensure our dogs receive the right balance of nutrients to thrive and lead happy, healthy lives. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll navigate through the do’s and don’ts of canine nutrition, shedding light on the foods that are not only safe but also beneficial for our four-legged friends.
Can dogs eat anything? No matter what kind of food you feed your dog, whether you have a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, it may be pretty pricey. Because a dog’s digestive system is fundamentally different from a human’s, the foods they eat or the meals that are beneficial for them differ greatly from those of us. Let’s look at some of the foods that dogs can eat.
The cost of feeding your dog might be high. Know what a dog can consume, whether it is dry food, wet food, grain-free food, or even human food. Feeding “Human” things like fruit and vegetables falls under this mainly.
If you are sat wondering, I wonder if my dog can eat this, but your not quite sure, don’t feed it to them. I have researched the below foods to see what can dogs eat sometimes or not at all to help you along your way in trying new foods with your dog.
If you have any other questions regarding foods on this list OR want to know/see other foods listed here, please feel free to comment, and I will do my to get them updated.
Now let’s take a look at each of the foods above and why they can or can’t eat them.
What Can Dogs Eat? And Why?
Table of Contents
Can Dogs Eat Bananas? – YES!
Bananas are full of goodness for humans and dogs. The nutrients inside are bananas are hard to find in other foods, so there are definitely at the list. Vitamin B and C are found inside bananas and will be great for your dog.
If your dog has become a little constipated or doesn’t go regular enough, the fibre in bananas will help with this. As with Humans, fibre will ensure that your bowels move.
Do not give your dog too many bananas, like a full bunch, as this can cause constipation. Make sure you give an appropriate portion size and do not overfeed.
Can Dogs Eat Apples? – SOMETIMES!
Like most other fruits, Apples contain all the vitamins and minerals you and your dog need. “An apple a day keeps the doctor away!” Vitamin K, C and Calcium are some of the main nutrients found in apples.
Cesar Milan, the Mexican dog behaviourist and greatest dog trainer on the planet, advises that apples are a great alternative to dog chews. As apples are tough, they act great for cleaning your dog’s teeth helping with their dental hygiene.
But why can dogs only have them sometimes, if they are so GREAT?
Three main parts of an apple that are dangerous are the core, stem and seeds. Believe it or not, each of these contains cyanide and are not just dangerous to your dog but also to humans too.
Apple seeds are sneaky and hide deep inside the apple core, making it difficult to keep them out of harm’s way. Always make sure you remove all the seeds, stem and core before giving your dog an apple. I always prefer to peel an apple before giving them to Ralph. This prevents the peel from getting stuck in his teeth.
Can dogs eat carrots? YES!
Carrots for dogs are probably the human food you can give to a dog. They are probably the healthiest snacks you can give your dog, but they are also the messiest.
Carrots are in almost all dog foods as they are great for your dog’s eyes. I am not sure if they will be able to see in the dark. Carrots will also ensure that your dog maintains healthy natural skin and coat. Naturally, carrots will be great for longer haired dogs.
Ralph has carrots regular, and he enjoys them. The only problem we find is that he leaves so much mess behind when eating them. We have always noticed a big difference in his coat and how shinier it gets. We only feed him raw carrots as a treat, but they don’t last long when he has them.
Can dogs eat mushrooms? – NO!
Dogs can eat mushrooms in moderation; however, it is not recommended. The biggest problem with mushrooms is those you find in parks and fields. Dogs can only eat supermarket mushrooms.
Finding mushrooms in the park is very simple, but the problem is you just don’t know how toxic they are. Supermarket mushrooms are safe as we humans buy them all the time. Toxic mushrooms found in fields and parks are tough to identify, and if consumed, your dog could suffer severe consequences, including death.
Other problems that wild mushrooms can cause are internal, liver, kidney and digestion damage are just a few serious problems your dog could face.
Although I have stated that you can NOT feed your dog mushrooms, there is no harm done if they eat them. However, I wouldn’t recommend making mushrooms part of your dog’s diet.
Can dogs eat grapes? NO!
Grapes have long been a great treat for dogs to help with training. Only recently has it been discovered that grapes can cause kidney problems within dogs. How? It is uncertain, but it has been linked to grapes.
If you have fed grapes to your dog before reading this, but your dog has not shown any problems/side effects, do not worry. Just advise your vet on your next visit.
Your dog will experience vomiting and diarrhoea should that have an adverse effect on grapes. If this is the case, immediately take them to the vet before they are in pain and, much worse, suffer kidney failure.
Can dogs eat blueberries? YES!
When looking for what human foods dogs can eat, Blueberries are good. Not only are they full of all the vitamins you and your dog needs, but they are also great treats too. Like Grapes, they are small and effective. Blueberries are full of Vitamin A, B, C, E and K PLUS lots of Fibre.
A bigger bonus with Blueberries is they are simple to grow your own.
Blueberries can be found in a lot of the Dog Foods.
If you make your dog food, adding blueberries is a great idea. Do not, however, give your dog a bowl full as this, like all fruits, can cause diarrhoea, stomach upset and vomiting. Dogs will continue to eat and eat, so make sure you keep them to a reasonable portion.
Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter? YES!
Setting the record straight, peanuts are not nuts. Dogs CAN NOT EAT NUTS, but they can eat Peanuts. Peanuts are very healthy for humans and dogs as they are full of great nutrients and healthy fats that will ensure you and your dog live a long, happy life with a strong beating heart.
Peanut butter can be used all the time in dog treats. A couple of great examples.
Smear peanut butter around the KONG Treat Toy – This will keep your dog busy for hours, OR place spoonfuls of peanut butter in an ice cube tray and freeze overnight. When you check in the morning, you will have amazing peanut butter cube treats ready for your dog.
When buying peanut butter, always gets the unsalted version. Other branded jars of peanut butter are full of sugars and salts, and you will have a hyper dog that will end up fat and unhealthy. Don’t be over keen with the portion sizes, either. The calories in Peanut Butter is high.
Can dogs eat cheese? SOMETIMES!
Cheese, mmmm, cheese. I love a great piece of Mature Cheddar with my salad or even on a sandwich with a pickled onion. Dogs, however, especially Ralph, love cheese and will eat more and more. Cheese is not harmful to dogs unless they are lactose intolerant. It is also full of protein, so dogs should only eat cheese sometimes.
Processed cheeses bought in the supermarket can be full of chemicals that can be harmful to dogs, so most dog owners avoid these.
If you want cheese in your dog’s diet or part of your dog’s treats, make sure you check the ingredients and make sure that it is less fatty cheese. Your dog can quickly become ill from too much cheese, and you need to be careful, or you could end up with a high vet bill.
Can dogs eat chocolate? NO!!!!!!!!
Seriously. If you own a dog and did not know this, you shouldn’t have a dog. Ok, maybe a little harsh, but this is the most common fact for dogs. Chocolate is highly harmful to dogs as caffeine is toxic to dogs.
Darker chocolate is even worse and should also be avoided with sweets, treats and candy. Avoid everything.
If a dog eats chocolate, you could be looking at a huge vet bill (£500 +) and run the risk of your dog suffering or having potentially fatal injuries.
Dogs will immediately vomit after eating chocolate, and when I say vomit, I mean, every single thing in their insides will be extracted all over your house.
A Tail-Wagging Finale – Crafting a Nutrient-Rich Canine Cuisine
As we conclude our exploration into the world of dog-friendly diets, it’s evident that a well-informed approach to nutrition can make a significant difference in the vitality and longevity of our beloved pets. Remember, a balanced diet not only contributes to your dog’s physical health but also plays a crucial role in their overall well-being. So, embark on this culinary journey with your furry companion, ensuring each meal is a delightful symphony of flavors and nutrients. Here’s to crafting a tail-wagging, nutrient-rich canine cuisine that keeps your loyal friend bounding with joy for years to come!
Dogs frequently consume a variety of human foods. Others can be eaten in moderation as well. Your dog will determine everything. Making your dog’s food is a terrific way to guarantee that your dog is healthy and that you are aware of the ingredients. Making peanut butter treats or even just giving your dog fruit as a simple snack can boost their immune systems.
Always stay away from the items listed above that are a NO! They won’t just make your dog sick; they can also have very negative long-term health implications. Some may lead to the death of your dog.
Just as you would with your personal diet, watch what you eat. A dog is for life, not only for the holidays, keep that in mind!
