The Foods We Love to Feed Our Dogs

…And The Foods That Don’t Love Our Dogs Back

Treating and spoiling our dogs is one of the ways we show our love and appreciation for them, but sharing everything with them may have unhealthy consequences. As humans, we can discern the foods we can and can’t eat, dogs, on the other hand, will happily gobble up anything you give them. It is important as a dog owner to know what foods are harmful to your dog so you can keep them happy and healthy.

What seems like a good treat to give your dog, may end up in a night spent cleaning up vomit and diarrhea, or a trip to the emergency vet. At The Vet Set, we want your pooch to be and stay healthy, and knowing what to feed your dog is one of the most important pieces to being a wise dog owner. Follow along in today’s post as we cover the foods that are healthy and harmful to your furry best friend.

The List of Foods That Are Beneficial and Harmful For your Dog

If you are a first-time dog owner or even pet sitting for an extended time, we can assume that all foods are safe for your dog because they are safe and healthy for us, but this, unfortunately, just does not stand up.

How are dogs really that different from humans?

Dogs digest foods differently from us and have a set of digestive enzymes that make some foods completely palatable, while others are downright dangerous. We’ll begin with a list of fruits and veggies because these are often the foods that get away from us in the kitchen while chopping and preparing meals, and straight for the floor into your dog’s mouth!

Veggies and Fruit

Apples – This sweet and delicious fruit is perfectly acceptable for dogs, and are high in fiber,vitamins, and minerals to help keep your dog healthy.

Asparagus – Dogs should not eat asparagus, and although it is not toxic, it may be difficult for your dog to digest it because it is tough and very high in fiber.  

Bananas – Yes, bananas are safe for dogs and have many vitamins and minerals. Exercise caution when giving your dog a banana because of their high sugar content, as this can easily lead to excess weight gain.

Blueberries – Blueberries are safe for dogs. These little round treats are perfect to use during training or a fun time to watch your dog try and catch them!

Broccoli – This veggie is safe for dogs, but should be given in small quantities and as a rare treat. Because broccoli contains a compound called isothiocyanates, this can cause mild to major gastric upset in some dogs.

Brussel sprouts – Yes, your furry friend can eat Brussel sprouts. They contain great nutrients, but use caution and don’t overfeed them to your dog — they can cause major gas!

Cantaloupe – This fruit is perfectly appropriate for dogs but is high in sugar, so be sure to use in moderation.

Carrots – Carrots are great for dogs and are packed with beneficial vitamins. Plus, their hard, crunchy texture can help keep their teeth clean.

Celery – This veggie can not only freshen your dog’s breath, but it is also a great snack.

Cherries – Cherries are not safe for dogs. The main fleshy part around the seed is safe, it is the pits that contain cyanide that can cause major health issues, so it is best to steer clear of them.

Cranberries – These are safe, but too many can cause digestive issues. Because cranberries are tart in nature, most dogs don’t enjoy them.

Cucumbers – Cucumbers are packed with many healthy compounds and are great for dog’s battling weight issues because it is low in carbs and fats, and have even been known to increase energy levels.

Grapes – Grapes are a solid NO! This fruit and its dried counterpart raisins have proven to be extremely toxic for all dogs regardless of their breed, age, or size. Grapes are so toxic, they can quickly lead to kidney failure in dogs.

Green beans – However prepared, dogs can eat green beans and stay healthy. They are loaded with fiber and vitamins and minerals to support your dog’s health.

Mango – Mangoes are acceptable, however, their pits have cyanide in them so ensure your dog does not eat it whole.

Mushrooms – Mushrooms are a NO for dogs. Because there are so many varieties of wild mushrooms and most can be toxic to both humans and dogs, it is best to just avoid them.

Onions – NO, onions are not safe to feed your dog. They contain a compound called allium that is poisonous to pets. Not only will things get unpleasant with stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, but it causes dog’s red blood cells to rupture.

Oranges – Oranges are safe for dogs and a fun treat, but vets recommend to toss the peel because it can cause digestive issues.

Peaches – Like cherries and mangoes, peach pits also contain cyanide, so you can give your dog a peach just be sure to ditch the pit.

Pears – Pears are safe for dogs to consume, but again, their seeds contain cyanide. Be sure to de-seed pears before feeding them to your pooch.

Peas – Green peas of all varieties are fine for dogs and include sugar snap, garden, English, and snow peas. Peas are great to mix into your dog’s food for added protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals.

Pineapple – This tropical fruit is beneficial to dogs because it contains a compound called bromelain which helps dogs absorb and breakdown different enzymes — it is gut-friendly to dogs! Yes, pineapple is a sweet treat for dogs in moderation.   

Potatoes – This starchy veggie is safe for your dog, and makes a great addition to homemade dog foods because it is grain-free yet filling.

Raspberries – This berry is safe for dogs and contains anti-inflammatory properties great for balancing inflammation in injured and senior dogs. It does contain some xylitol, so use with caution because it can cause digestive concerns.

Strawberries – Strawberries are great for dogs and the seeds even contain a teeth-whitening property that shines up their smile as they eat them!

Spinach – Spinach is safe for dogs, but you may want to steer clear of it because of its high content of oxalic acid. This compound blocks calcium absorption and can lead to kidney issues.  

Sweet potatoes – Dogs love sweet potatoes and sweet potatoes love dogs! Wash, peel, and soften these veggies and use them for training or treats.  

Tomatoes – Dogs should avoid tomatoes. While the fleshy red part is safe, it is the small green parts that are dangerous. They contain solanine which makes them sick.

Watermelons – Watermelons are safe when they are seedless and parted from the rind. They do contain a large amount of sugar that can cause stomach issues.

We covered common fruits and veggies pretty extensively but if you are not seeing one here, be sure to consult with your vet or do a search for it on the internet.

Dogs have a different digestive system and can’t tolerate all the foods that we can. Be sure to avoid tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, and grapes completely when feeding your dog treats!

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