Ever been eating at the dinner table only to find your furry friend begging for scraps? While it can be harmful to feed them leftovers for a variety of reasons (seasonings, potential weight gain, etc.), there are several foods that are excellent supplements to your dog’s diet. If you have a pup that needs to lose weight or you just want to keep them in top shape, nutritious treats support their overall well-being and are a great motivator to get them moving. Here are some healthy human foods you can feel good about giving your dog.
Carrots
We all know dogs love to chew, which is why it’s no surprise that many dogs love these crunchy veggies. If you have a puppy that’s teething, try freezing them. It’ll not only make the carrots last longer, but it will feel good on their sore gums. In addition to supporting their dental health, carrots can improve their vision.
Salmon
Is your dog’s coat looking a little dull? Salmon is full of fatty acids that help your pup’s coat shine and hydrate their skin. It also keeps their heart healthy and builds immunity. Just be sure that it’s fully-cooked before you feed it to your pup. Or if you want an easier alternative, give them salmon oil.
Peanut Butter
A treat dogs go nuts for! Peanut butter is a great source of protein. However, make sure you check the label — some brands use xylitol, which is toxic for dogs – do not feed your dog peanut butter containing xylitol. To keep your dog occupied for a while, place peanut butter in a KONG Classic.
Coconut
Coconut benefits both coats and bodies. It can aid digestion, reduce coughing and inflammation, and balance out thyroids, which is helpful if you’re focusing on weight loss or your dog needs more energy. It can be fed to dogs in several forms, including coconut oil. Warning: Adding to kibble may cause extra excitement at meal time.
Pumpkin
Packed with nutrients, pumpkin is a filling snack that supports your pup’s overall health. It’s also full of fiber, which regulates your dog’s digestive system if they’re struggling with diarrhea. Stuff pumpkin in their favorite toy or create a delicious feast with this recipe.
Green Beans
A vet-recommended food. Why, you ask? One, they can be consumed in any form: canned, cooked, or raw. However, if you do cook green beans, make sure they’re free of seasoning — especially salt, onion, and garlic. Two, they’re full of vitamins and fiber while being low in calories.
Eggs
Eggs are full of fatty acids and vitamins, making them a fantastic treat. All parts of the egg, including the shell, are beneficial for dogs to eat. Serve them hard-boiled or scrambled. When you scramble them, avoid using butter and instead use a healthier alternative like coconut oil.
Cucumbers
The perfect snack for a chunky pup. If your furry friend needs to shed a few pounds, cucumbers are a nutritious treat that provides energy without extra carbs, fats, or oils.
Apples
Another crunchy food dogs adore. Apples have Vitamin A and C, as well as fiber. Be careful, though, because the seeds are harmful for your canine friend. Always cut apples up first and check for seeds.
Sweet Potatoes
The kind of comfort food that will have your dog begging for more. While they are most popular around Thanksgiving, your dog will love them any time of the year. Sweet potatoes can help your dog’s digestive system, plus they’re low in fat. If you really want to spoil your furry friend, make this dog-friendly recipe.
If you’ve never fed your dog these foods before, be sure to start in moderation. Dogs have very sensitive systems, so it’s better to err on the side of caution than to deal with the aftermath of an upset stomach.
Try out KONG Club. We offer monthly subscriptions customized to your and your pet’s needs for training and 24/7 vet access.
