Can my dog eat this?

We love our dogs like family, but their bodies work very differently from ours. There are many human foods that although safe for us can be harmful, if not deadly for our best buds. Understanding what’s safe to share and what to avoid is key in keeping them happy and healthy. 

Food dogs should avoid –

Certain everyday human foods can pose serious risks. Chocolate, for instance, contains theobromine, which can trigger vomiting, seizures and even death – though the level of toxicity depends on the type and amount of chocolate consumed, as well as the size of the animal. Grapes and raisins can cause kidneys to fail, and foods with xylitol, an ingredient commonly found in sugar free gum and baked goods can induce dangerously low blood sugar and liver failure. 

Common cooking staples like onions and garlic, when eaten raw can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia, while macadamia nuts when eaten may cause weakness, tremors, or temporary paralysis. Other key items to avoid include ham, sausage, salty snacks, alcohol, spicy foods and desserts – all of which can mess with the digestive tract. 

Safe human foods for dogs – 

There are many human foods that your best buds can safely snack on. Lean proteins such as cooked chicken, turkey or boneless beef are all excellent choices. Dogs can also benefit from a variety of fruits such as apples (minus the core), bananas, blueberries and watermelon. 

There are many great vegetables safe for treating too. Carrots, broccoli, green beans and sweet potatoes can all provide your pet with goodies like vitamins and fibre – both raw and cooked! For dogs that tolerate dairy, small amounts of plain yoghurt or cheese can be a tasty treat (and a good option for trying to hide medication when needed). Too much dairy will upset the gut, but that’s pretty true with too much of anything 🙂 Plain rice and pasta can be safe and gentle on the stomach. Always remembering to ensure you serve these snacks unseasoned and in appropriate portions. 

Tips for keeping your best bud safe –

As devoted pet carers, it’s our responsibility to know what’s safe and what’s not. Moderation is the key when offering human food. Importantly the foods listed above aren’t exhaustive 

If you are unsure if a certain snack is safe for your pet or concerned they have eaten something they shouldn’t have, our Aussie Vets are online 24/7 for guidance.