Dogs are carnivores, which means they need to eat protein-rich food. That’s why dog kibble is full of meat protein. Dogs can thrive on a diet that consists almost entirely of meat. However, dogs cannot thrive on the same human foods that we do. That being said, there are certain human foods that your dog can eat without any adverse effects on his health. It’s important to note that some of these foods should not be given to your dog on a regular basis — they are occasional treats at best — and it is always a good idea to check with your vet before introducing any new foods into your dog’s diet.
Why Can’t Dogs Eat the Same Food as Humans?
The biggest reason that dogs cannot eat the same food as humans is the fact that their digestive systems are dramatically different from ours. The human digestive tract is around 30 feet long, while a dog’s digestive tract is only around three feet long. That means dogs can’t fully digest many of the same foods that humans can — especially plant matter. Dog digestive systems also aren’t able to break down cellulose, which is the main component of plant matter. So even if dogs were to eat veggies, they would just excrete the cellulose because their bodies cannot break it down and digest it. However, while dogs can’t digest human food, they can eat it in small amounts. The only thing to keep in mind is that dogs have a higher caloric requirement than we do, which means they need at least 25% more calories in their diet than we do. Also, make sure the food does not contain xylitol, which can cause poor coordination, vomiting/diarrhea, liver failure and death.
List of Human Foods that Can Be Safe for Dogs
Fats and Oils
Avocado Oil – Canines can consume avocado oil in small amounts, but it should be avoided if your dog suffers from intestinal issues or allergies.
Canola Oil – While canola oil is often used in human foods, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
Coconut Oil – Although coconut oil is high in saturated fats, it is safe for dogs to consume in small amounts.
Flaxseed Oil – Dogs can safely consume small amounts of flaxseed oil.
Grapeseed Oil – Grapeseed oil is okay for dogs to eat, as long as they don’t consume large amounts of it.
Hemp Seed Oil – While hemp seed oil is safe for dogs to consume, it should be used in small amounts because it is high in polyunsaturated fats.
Olive Oil – Olive oil is okay to feed your dog in small amounts, but it is not a good choice to give them as part of their regular diet.
Peanut Oil – When used in moderation, peanut oil is safe for dogs to consume.
Peanut Butter – Dogs can consume peanut butter in small amounts, but it should be used sparingly because it is high in fat and sodium. Make sure that the peanut butter does not contain xylitol, which can cause poor coordination, vomiting/diarrhea, liver failure and death.
Safflower Oil – Safflower oil is safe for dogs to eat, but it should only be given to them sparingly because it is high in polyunsaturated fats.
Sesame Oil – Sesame oil can be fed to dogs in small amounts because it is high in polyunsaturated fats.
Sunflower Oil – Sunflower oil is safe for dogs to consume, but should be given sparingly because it is high in polyunsaturated fats.
Walnut Oil – Walnut oil is okay to feed to dogs, but it shouldn’t be given to them in large amounts because it is high in polyunsaturated fats.
Nuts
Cashews – These are safe for dogs to eat, but they should be given in small amounts because they are high in fat and sodium.
Hazelnuts (Filberts) – These are safe for dogs to eat in moderation, but they are high in fat and sodium.
Peanuts – Dry-roasted (or raw), unsalted peanuts are the only peanuts safe for dogs to eat.
Pecans – These are safe for dogs to eat, but they should be given in moderation because they are high in fat.
Pistachios – Yes, dogs can eat pistachios. Like other nuts, they shouldn’t be given to dogs on a regular basis.
Walnuts – These are safe for dogs to eat, but they should be given in moderation because they are high in fat and sodium.
Beans and Legumes
Black Beans – These are safe for dogs to eat, are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. Like all beans, they should be given in moderation.
Chickpeas – Chickpeas are safe for dogs to eat. Avoid processed chickpeas, such as those turned into hummus, which are full of spices and seasonings that, while delicious to you, can harm your dog.
Lentils – These are safe for dogs to consume. Lentils provide a rich source of numerous nutrients including B vitamins, phosphorus, iron, zinc and carotenoids, but they should be fed in moderation.
Peas – Green peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, split peas and garden or English peas are all OK for dogs to find in their bowl on occasion.
Fruit
Apples – Apples are safe for dogs to eat when chopped into bite-size chunks and with the pit removed. Too many apples may cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs.
Blueberries – Yes, dogs can eat blueberries. Blueberries are a great source of , minerals, antioxidants, and more.
Cranberries – Cranberries are safe for dogs to eat, but they should be given in moderation because too many cranberries can lead to an upset stomach.
Peaches – Fresh peaches are safe for dogs to eat, make sure the pit is removed first.
Pears – Like peaches, fresh pears are safe for dogs to eat. Just make sure to cut pears into bite-size chunks and remove the pit and seeds first.
Oranges – Oranges are safe for dogs to eat, but remove the peel and only offer your dog the flesh of the orange, minus any seeds. Orange peel is rough on their digestive systems.
Raspberries – While your dog can eat a few raspberries, too many can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.
Vegetables
Brussel Sprouts – Dogs can eat Brussel sprouts, though too much and your dog can suffer from upset stomach and diarrhea. Even small and moderate amounts of Brussels sprouts will cause flatulence.
Carrots – Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack that is high in fiber and beta-carotene.
Corn – Corn, when not canned, is a healthy food that is highly digestible for dogs.
Cucumbers – Cucumbers are an excellent, tasty and hydrating summer treat. They are especially good for pets that need to lose weight. Just make sure to cut them into bite-size chunks. Dogs can not have pickles, as they are too high in sodium and contain ingredients that dogs should not ingest, like garlic and onions.
Green Beans – Chopped, steamed, raw, or canned green beans are safe for dogs to eat, as long as they are plain.
Peas – Green peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, split peas and garden or English peas are all OK for dogs to find in their bowl on occasion.
Potatoes – Only fully cooked, baked or boiled potatoes are safe for dogs to eat. Raw potatoes can cause vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy.
Rice – Dogs can eat plain cooked white rice. A serving of plain white rice with some boiled chicken can help sooth a dog with an upset stomach.
Spinach – While a dog can eat spinach occasionally, too much can reduce your dog’s ability to absorb calcium and can lead to kidney damage
Conclusion
Dogs are carnivores, which means they need to eat protein-rich food. That’s why dog kibble is full of meat protein. Dogs can thrive on a diet that consists almost entirely of meat. However, dogs cannot thrive on the same human foods that we do. That being said, there are certain human foods that your dog can eat without any adverse effects on his health. It’s important to note that these foods should not be given to your dog on a regular basis — they are occasional treats at best — and it is always a good idea to check with your vet before introducing any new foods into your dog’s diet.
