Your dog wants your food. You want to give your dog a bite. Neither of you want your dog to get sick. We’ve all been there. 

From grilled cheese to a bite of bacon, it’s natural to want to give your furry friend a taste. However, not all human food is healthy, let alone safe, for dogs. Many of our favourite ingredients can be dangerous, and a key reason you shouldn’t share is the seasoning. 

 

Why seasoning makes human food unsafe for dogs 


While the base ingredients of your meal may seem harmless, it’s the added salt, spices, fats, and oils that often make them unhealthy for dogs. 

Seasonings like garlic and onion are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. High-fat ingredients like butter or bacon grease can trigger pancreatitis. If there’s too much salt then your dog may get dehydrated or sodium ion poisoning. 

 

Safe human foods to share 


There are plenty healthy and safe human foods that you can share with your dog! Like most things in life, moderation is the key. Too much of any of these foods, especially the high fiber ones, can give your dog digestive issues: 

 

Raw fruits and veggies: 


Many dogs love a crunchy and healthy treat. Try cutting dog-safe fruit and veggies in bit-sized pieces. These ones are tasty, packed with vitamins, and high in fiber: 
  • Carrots 
  • Apples (without the seeds) 
  • Celery  
 

Fun snack options for dogs: 

  • Peanut butter: It’s a classic for a reason. Unsalted peanut butter is best for your dog. It can be combined with celery for a snack both you and your pup will love. Make sure it doesn’t have xylitol. 
  • Meat/Fish: Cut off an unseasoned and boneless piece to bake, boil, or barbecue alongside your food. Your dog will appreciate it being sliced into bite-sized pieces (they’ll get more mouthfuls and won’t choke) 
  • Rice and pasta: Separate a portion before you add the sauce, seasoning, and toppings to your own. This can be a high fiber snack for your pup. 


Human foods to avoid giving dogs 


Some of the worst foods for dogs are the ones they’ll want the most. These foods will get your dog’s attention, but they shouldn’t have any. 
  • Bacon:  High-fat and salty – two big red flags 
  • French fries and chips: Fried, salty, and very unhealthy for dogs 
  • Pizza: Between the garlic, salt, fatty cheese, and greasy meats, this is a no-go 
  • Grilled cheese: Too much fat, salt, and lactose 
  • Ice cream: It’s high in fat, salt, and lactose – just like grilled cheese 
  • Raw fish: this can contain parasites – especially salmon 
 

Human foods that are toxic to dogs 


Some foods are not just unhealthy for your dog – they’re toxic. Even a small amount of these foods can cause serious health problems: 
 
  • Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which can cause seizures or even death. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the worst kinds for dogs. 
  • Grapes and raisins: Can trigger kidney failure 
  • Onions and garlic: Damage red blood cells and can cause anemia 
  • Caffeine and alcohol: Extremely dangerous and potentially fatal 
  • Xylitol: A sugar substitute found in gum, candy, and some peanut butters – this is highly toxic and potentially deadly. 

Keep these foods out of your dog’s reach and contact a vet immediately if they ingest some. 

 

While it’s tempting to share your meal with your best friend, your dog’s health depends on making the right choices. Stick to safe, healthy, and unseasoned foods. Steer clear of the foods that are toxic to them. When in doubt, consult your vet, and save the last slice of pizza for yourself. 


Accidents happen! Stay protected and get a free quote for Petsecure pet insurance today. 

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