Courtesy of the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society

Does your pet look at you longingly during dinner? You can’t blame them. Your meal smells more appetizing than their kibble. However, most human food is too rich and fatty for a dog’s digestive system, and can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, more severe conditions like pancreatitis, or even death. While most fruits and veggies are safe, grapes, raisins, and onions are toxic.

Here is a list of foods that are safe and nutritious for your dog when given in moderation.

  • Apples are a great source of fiber, vitamins A, and C.
  • Blueberries are rich in fiber and antioxidants.
  • Bananas have lots of magnesium, which is terrific for bone health and potassium.
  • Carrots are a good source of vitamin A, which is helpful for your dog’s immune system and skin. Chewing raw carrots helps remove plaque from teeth.
  • Chicken or turkey is a great option for a dog’s upset stomach when served boiled with no seasoning.
  • Cottage cheese and plain yogurt are excellent source of calcium and protein.
  • Cucumbers are an easy, low-calorie snack with vitamins and minerals, and are a smart option for overweight pets.
  • Eggs that are cooked provide highly absorbable protein.
  • Fish like cooked salmon, shrimp, and tuna are excellent sources of protein. Salmon and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help keep a dog’s immune system, heart, and skin healthy. Shrimp’s B vitamins help maintain a dog’s digestive tract and promote healthy blood circulation.
  • Green beans are great raw or cooked, and are a healthy source of protein, calcium, iron, and vitamin K.
  • Lettuce of any kind served plain is safe and healthy for your dog.
  • Peanut butter is a source of vitamins E and B, niacin, healthy fats, and protein. However, only serve small amounts of peanut butter with no added sugar or sweeteners. Always check for the ingredient called xylitol, which can be lethal.
  • Pumpkin plain and canned without any spices is a great source of fiber and vitamin A.
  • Popcorn provides magnesium, phosphorous, and zinc, but please no salt, butter, or sugar.
  • Sweet potatoes that are fully cooked are a favorite when added into kibble or eaten separately. They provide lots of fiber for digestive nourishment.
  • Watermelon has plenty of vitamin A, C, and B-6. The high-water content in watermelon provides hydration; however, remove the rind first.
  • White or brown rice helps with gastric issues. When served plain or with some boiled chicken, it can provide relief for dogs with stomach problems.

Always check with your veterinarian about your pet’s diet. It should contain traditional packaged pet food and human foods that are appropriate and given in moderation.

The Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society is comprised of more than 75 small animal hospitals and more than 220 practitioners in Erie and Niagara Counties. It exists to advance public awareness and understanding of appropriate and compassionate pet health care, veterinary services, and the veterinary profession.