Food is essential for dogs just as it is for humans. However, not all food is good for our furry friends. In this blog post, we will take a look at the 11 foods you should avoid feeding your dog and why. After that, we will provide a list of 12 healthy foods that dogs can eat and how they benefit our canine companions. With this information, pet parents can be sure to give their dogs the best possible diet and keep them healthy and happy!
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
In this article, we will discuss 11 Foods Your Dogs Should Avoid
- Chocolate
- Grapes and Raisins
- Macadamia Nuts
- Onions and Garlic
- Raw Eggs
- Cooked Bones
- Sesame Seeds
- Coffee and Tea
- Milk and Dairy Products
- Yeast Dough
- Candy and Gum
and the 12 Healthy Foods for Your Dogs
Chocolate
The first food on our list of things to avoid feeding your dog is chocolate. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and even death in severe cases. If you suspect that your dog has eaten chocolate, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
Grapes and Raisins
Another food to avoid feeding your dog is grapes and raisins. These fruits contain toxins that can cause kidney failure in dogs. Even a small amount can be dangerous, so it is best to keep grapes and raisins away from your furry friend altogether.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are another food that should be avoided when it comes to feeding your dog. These nuts contain toxins that can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and paralysis in dogs. If you think your dog has eaten macadamia nuts, contact your veterinarian right away.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are two more foods that can be harmful to dogs. These food items contain substances that can damage a dog’s red blood cells and lead to anemia. In severe cases, onions and garlic can also cause gastrointestinal irritation and gastric ulcers in dogs.
Raw Eggs
Raw eggs may contain bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli that can be harmful to both you and your dog. Additionally, raw eggs may also contain an enzyme that can interfere with the absorption of biotin, a vitamin that is essential for healthy skin and fur.
Cooked Bones
While cooked bones may seem like a safe and tasty treat for your dog, they can actually pose a serious choking hazard. Cooked bones can splinter and break, causing damage to your dog’s gums, teeth, or digestive tract. If you want to give your dog a bone treat, make sure it is raw and supervised at all times.
Sesame Seeds
While a small number of sesame seeds likely won’t hurt your dog, they can be toxic in large quantities. Sesame seeds contain a compound called sesamin, which can cause liver damage in dogs.
Coffee and Tea
Caffeinated drinks like coffee and tea can be dangerous for dogs because they contain caffeine, a stimulant that can cause restlessness, heart arrhythmias, and even seizures.
Milk and Dairy Products
Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which means they can’t properly digest milk and other dairy products. These food items can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting in dogs.
Yeast Dough
Yeast dough can rise and expand in your dog’s stomach, causing pain and potentially leading to bloat, a life-threatening condition.
Candy and Gum
Candy and gum often contain xylitol, a sweetener that’s safe for humans but toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause low blood sugar, which leads to vomiting and weakness. It can also cause liver damage.
12 Healthy Foods for Your Dogs
Now that we’ve gone over some of the foods you should avoid feeding your dog, let’s talk about some of the best food options for them. Just like with human food, there are certain ingredients that are better for dogs than others. Here are twelve of the best foods you can feed your four-legged friend to keep them healthy and happy!
Apples
An excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, apples are a healthy snack for dogs and can even help freshen their breath. Just be sure to remove the core and seeds first, as they contain trace amounts of cyanide.
Blueberries
Like apples, blueberries are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They’re also low in calories, making them a great treat for dogs who are watching their waistlines.
Cinnamon
A sprinkling of cinnamon can do more than just add flavor to your dog’s food; it can also help regulate their blood sugar levels. Just be sure to use Ceylon cinnamon rather than cassia cinnamon, as the latter contains oils that can be toxic to dogs.
Pumpkin
Whether it’s canned, cooked, or raw, pumpkin is a nutrient-rich food that’s great for dogs’ digestive systems. It’s also a low-calorie treat that’s perfect for pups who are trying to lose a few pounds.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains live and active cultures that can help regulate your dog’s digestion. Just be sure to choose a brand that doesn’t contain too much sugar, as too much of the sweet stuff can lead to weight gain.
Carrots
Carrots are another healthy snack for dogs. They’re packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and they’re low in calories. Plus, chewing on carrots can help keep your dog’s teeth clean.
Green beans
Green beans are a healthy, low-calorie food for dogs. They’re also a good source of fiber and vitamins A, C, and K.
Peanut butter
Most dogs love the taste of peanut butter, and it’s a good source of protein and healthy fats. Just be sure to choose a brand that doesn’t contain sugar or salt, as too much of either can be bad for your pup.
Salmon
Salmon is a nutritious food for dogs that’s packed with protein and omega-fatty acids. It’s also an excellent source of vitamins B12 and D. Just be sure to cook the salmon before feeding it to your dog, as raw fish can contain harmful bacteria.
Oats
Oats are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can also help to soothe an upset stomach.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a healthy, low-calorie food for dogs that’s packed with fiber and vitamins A, C, and B12.
Bananas
Bananas are a healthy snack for dogs that are low in calories and fat. They’re also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
These are just a few of the many food options that are safe and healthy for dogs to eat. For a more comprehensive list, consult your veterinarian or an animal nutritionist. And, as always, if you have any questions about what’s best for your pup, be sure to speak with your vet. They’ll be happy to help you ensure that your four-legged friend is getting all the nutrients they need to stay happy and healthy!
Go grocery shopping with your pup today!
Here at Ibiyaya, you can go grocery shopping with your pup to give them the healthiest food you can offer! We have different small, medium, and large dog strollers, carriers, and bags that make it easier to bring your fur baby along with you when you want them to explore the outside world, go shopping, or meet up with friends and family. No need to leave them behind.
