Would your dog rather eat your food than his own? Many of us give in to the pleading look from our furry friends and treat them to a tasty morsel from our meals. It’s important to know what human foods are safe for dogs to eat and what foods to avoid.
Signs Your Dog Wants to Share Your Food
Dogs have various ways of letting you know they want your food, such as begging with their eyes, snuggling up to you, or even stealing food when you’re not looking.
Body Language
Your dog may stare, bark, tilt their head, jump up, wag their tail, raise their ears, or raise a paw to get your attention for food.
Other Signs
Other signs that your dog wants your food include pleading eyes, putting their head in your lap, pawing at your leg, or stealing food.
The History of Dogs Eating Human Food
Dogs and humans have a long history of sharing food. In the past, dogs primarily ate scraps and leftovers from our meals. Commercial pet food became popular in the 19th century, but there has been a recent trend of home-cooked doggy diets.
The Science of Feeding Dogs Human Food
Research has helped us understand what foods are safe for dogs to eat. Dogs can safely enjoy foods like apples, bananas, beef, bread, blueberries, carrots, cashews and almonds (in small quantities), celery, cheese (in small quantities), chicken, corn, eggs, fish, ham, mushrooms, oatmeal, peanut butter, pork, potatoes, quinoa, rice, salmon, shrimp, strawberries, sweet potatoes, tomatoes (occasionally), tuna, turkey, and yogurt (with no added sugar or artificial sweetener). Foods to avoid include caffeine, chocolate, garlic, grapes and raisins, onions, macadamia nuts, pits from certain fruits, and alcohol.
Dogs and Human Food — Feeding the Right Diet
While it’s okay to give your dog treats occasionally, it’s important to only give them foods that are safe for them to eat. Be cautious about sharing your meal with your dog, as some ingredients may be harmful to them. If you’re considering preparing all of your dog’s meals at home, seek advice from a pet nutrition expert.
“Remember, before sharing your dinner with your dog, know what’s safe and what’s not.”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Be aware of what human foods are safe for dogs to eat and which ones are not. While there are plenty of human foods that dogs can enjoy, there are also foods that can be harmful to their health. It’s important to know the difference and avoid feeding your dog anything that could potentially be toxic or cause negative effects.
2️⃣ Pay attention to your dog’s body language and signs that they want to share your food. Dogs have various ways of letting you know that they want a bite of your meal, such as staring, barking, pawing at your leg, or stealing food. Understanding these cues can help you determine when your dog is interested in sharing your food.
3️⃣ Consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet. If you’re considering feeding your dog homemade meals or introducing new foods into their diet, it’s important to seek professional advice. A veterinarian can provide guidance on the right balance of nutrients your dog needs and ensure that the foods you’re feeding them are safe and appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. What are some signs that my dog wants to share my food?
– Some signs include pleading eyes, head in your lap, pawing at your leg, and stealing food.
2. What is the history of dogs eating human food?
– Dogs have been eating scraps and leftovers from human meals for thousands of years. Commercial pet food only became popular in the 19th century.
3. Can dogs eat bananas or apples?
– Yes, dogs can safely eat bananas and apples, as long as the seeds are removed from the apples.
4. What are some foods that are unsafe for dogs?
– Some foods that are unsafe for dogs include chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions, and macadamia nuts.
5. Is it safe to cook homemade meals for my dog?
– It can be difficult to create a balanced diet for your dog at home, so it’s important to consult with a pet nutrition expert before doing so.
