If we guessed the most common questions asked (or thought) by dog owners, we’d bet they begin with the phrase “can my dog eat…?” Whether the question is prompted spontaneously after a dinner ingredient falls on the floor or when your toddler stealthily sneaks your pooch some treats, knowing exactly what your pup can and can’t eat is a curiosity that is bound to come up as a dog owner. This question can be asked in a million directions and have twice as many answers. To simplify things, we’ve put together a list of seven foods most frequently second-guessed for dog safety.
Dogs sometimes don't think twice before downing a morsel.
1. Honey
Since ancient times honey has been well-known for its antibacterial properties. While it is completely safe for external use on wounds, you should be extra careful when your pet is ingesting it. Dogs Naturally Magazine recommends manuka honey as an effective source for treating kennel cough and similar ailments, in addition to helping stifle allergies. If you attempt to treat your pooch with honey, it should be done in moderation and with no more than one teaspoon per day. Since it is high in sugar content, it isn’t recommended for dogs suffering from diabetes or obesity. You should also make sure the honey is seasonal and, for best results, raw. To learn more about how honey may be able to help your pet, we recommend speaking with a vet.
2. Grapes
Grapes have been a long-debated subject regarding their toxicity levels in canines. Though not every dog shows reactions, it is documented that deaths have occurred even when a pet has digested only a small amount of grapes or raisins. It seems that something in the grapes can cause kidney failure and failure to urinate. There isn’t yet any scientific evidence to determine why the fruit causes such adverse reactions in some dogs. Because of this, we avoid keeping your pup away from all grape-based foods.
3. Watermelon
There’s a reason your kids love watermelon and your dog should, too! Aside from its sweet, juicy flesh satisfying hunger and thirst on a hot summer day, this fruit is packed full of essential nutrients. Comprised of Vitamins A and B6, antioxidants, lycopene - and lots of water - watermelon is a smart choice when treating your pooch. Just make sure your dog doesn’t have any seeds or rinds as they can cause a blockage in digestive processes.
4. Apples
The approach of fall begs the age-old question, “Is it safe for my dog to eat apples?” The answer - yes. Not only can pups benefit from Vitamins A and C found in its flesh, but apple skin is also a great source of fiber. As with any fruit containing a core, it’s best to cut the apple in slices or quarters free of any seeds or stemmy, solid remnants as these can be choking hazards. Bonus: apples also act as a scrubber for your dog’s teeth and as a breath freshener.
5. Carrots
Although your kids may grimace at the taste of these orange veggies on their dinner plates, chances are your dog will happily scarf carrots down when given the opportunity. Best known for their eye-strengthening powers of beta carotene, carrots also come with a host of other reasons to add these to your pup’s diet. Carrots have large amounts of Vitamin A and C, which boost the immune system and strengthen your dog’s coat. Carrots are also a great way to clean your dog’s teeth. It’s recommended to soften the carrots by sauteing or soaking for optimal nutrient absorption. Since carrots are high in sugar and are fat-soluble, it’s important not to give your dog too many as Vitamin A can be stored in the body and become toxic.
6. Eggs
This one is tricky. While some sources say we should avoid giving raw eggs to our dogs, other sources promote it. This is because egg whites can compromise digestive health in sick, old, or very young pooches. However, a dog that is currently healthy should have no problem properly digesting raw eggs. Eggs lose the majority of nutrients after being cooked which is why many health experts argue dogs can actually be healthier when eating them raw. Another concern in adding eggs to your dog’s diet is the potential risk of salmonella. This can be avoided by storing eggs in a cool place and not feeding them to your dog if expired. In addition to amino acids, folate, and healthy fats, eggs contain biotin, which is essential to a nutrient-dense diet. Too much biotin can cause health problems, but as long as eggs are not the staple of your dog’s food, then there should be no troubles. If your pup can’t handle bones, it’s recommended to grind eggshells (organic and free range only) into a powder and sprinkle them in your dog’s water or food for a healthy boost of calcium and minerals.
7. Garlic
The pro's and cons of this bulb for your dog's health have been hotly debated. that your dog can and should eat, if your pup is healthy. When provided to your dog properly, garlic is a great alternative to chemical flea/tick repellants, boosts immune and liver function, and can ward off a number of sicknesses and diseases related to your dog’s blood and heart. It is, however, to be noted that garlic CAN be lethal to a dog. Garlic should not be given to dogs with autoimmune diseases and should be withheld from puppies until they are over eight weeks old. They should also not be given too much as this can result in high toxicity and harm your pup’s red blood cell activity. If you’re worried about giving your pup too much garlic, another way to get the health benefits is by using supplements like brewer’s yeast and garlic tablets. As with any herb/supplement, you should speak with a professional prior to your dog’s use. There you have it, finally, some answers to your burning questions about what your dog can and can’t eat. Just like any food, it is best to give your dog a diet from organic, non-GMO sources and to monitor your pup closely when providing new foods. We hope this gives you some peace of mind the next time your pup gobbles something from the floor - and that you’ll take this newfound knowledge and begin applying it for bonding with your pup. After all, food is meant to bring families together, dogs included!
