May I Have Some People Food, Please

Can you and your dog eat the same things?

If you like kibble, definitely yes.  If you’re thinking more like letting him have your leftovers or a couple bites of what’s on your plate, that’s a little different.

Everyone (well almost) knows chocolate is dangerous for dogs.  So don’t sneak him a bite of grandma’s chocolate cake no matter how much he begs.  Don’t give him grapes or raisins either.  And probably not avocado because it can upset his stomach.

Let’s take a look at several “people food” categories and some of the items that are and are not safe for your dog.

Vegetables

Carrots, cucumber, zucchini, bell peppers, lettuce, cauliflower, asparagus, broccoli, green beans – they’re all good for him.  Either grate or chop the first four and steam the others. These will give him vitamins and fiber.

Onions and garlic are off the list. And keep in mind anything containing these ingredients. They can cause problems, too.

Fruit

Most fruits (except raisins and grapes) are okay.  A lot of dogs like bananas, blueberries, melon and oranges.  Be careful with the oranges.  I had a dog once who would drink orange juice every chance he got. But he would always get an upset stomach as well.  Be careful with things like cherries if they still have the pits. And give them in limited quantities even if they are pitted.

Freezing blueberries for a treat on a hot day can be a good idea.  Apples can be a good source of potassium and Vitamin C. Blackberries give them antioxidants. Cranberries also are a good source of Vitamin C and fiber.  They help make the urinary tract healthier as well.

Pears are a good source of folic acid, phosphorus and potassium.   One or two chunks makes a great snack. Give watermelon for a tasty, vitamin-filled treat.  But don’t let them have the rind.

Meats

All dogs like meat.  But if you are going to give them some of your leftovers or a chunk of that prime rib you’re making for dinner, be sure it’s cooked and free of all bones. Avoid giving them fatty pieces. It will do the same thing to their arteries that it does to yours.  Also ensure the meat is cut into bite-sized pieces and never give him old or moldy meat.  You wouldn’t eat it and he shouldn’t either.

But what about that leftover bone from the Easter ham?  He would love it and you would love keeping him busy for a while.  But think about what’s going to happen if it splinters and perforates his intestines and toss that bone in the trash.

A few other good treats

Cashews – these provide calcium, magnesium and protein.   But they also contain fat, so use sparingly. But just because cashews are okay, doesn’t mean all other nuts are as well.  Macadamia nuts are not safe and almonds should be used sparingly.

Coconut – helps strengthen the immune system.

Eggs – Just be sure they’re fully cooked.

Salmon – It’s full of vitamins.  But don’t give it raw or not fully cooked.

Yogurt -Plain is good.  Save the flavored for yourself.

And what about drinking

No, your dog does not need a cocktail before dinner.  He doesn’t need a beer either  A little milk may be okay, but limit quantities.  Tea and coffee are a no-no.  Water is always a good thing.

And a few other foods to avoid.

Anything containing the sugar substitute xylitol.  He shouldn’t eat raw yeast, lemons or limes.  Nutmeg is a spice he should avoid.

When in doubt about whether something you are eating is safe for your dog, check with your veterinarian before giving him a bite.