It’s no secret that dogs have a very different digestive system to humans. This means that, unfortunately, they can’t always dine on the same meals. However, their same diet of kibble can get boring. You want to treat your furry friend to something special, but you still want it to be healthy and nutritious.
While the list of foods humans can munch on is long, the list of healthy and safe foods for dogs is much shorter. Thankfully, there are several common ingredients that you probably already have that your dog will love while supporting a healthy pup.
Take a look at this list of the top recommended treats for a nutritious and yummy snack that you won’t have to go far to find.
1. Peanut Butter
Let’s start with peanut butter, as this is an important one to get right due to some types being unsafe for dogs. Unsalted peanut butter with no sweeteners or added sugar in moderation is the perfect tasty treat. Many dog treats contain peanut butter because it contains many elements that are beneficial to canines. This includes protein, healthy fats, niacin, and vitamins E and B.
However, you must know what kind of peanut butter dogs can eat. Check the label for a sweetener called xylitol. If a peanut butter jar says it contains this element, do not give it to your dog, as it is highly toxic for them. If you suspect your dog has ingested this sweetener from some peanut butter, you must call a veterinarian immediately. There may be severe reactions within the next 12 to 24 hours, and your vet needs to act swiftly.
2. Carrots
Carrots are healthy for dogs for multiple reasons. They’re also a great source of vitamin A, which is important for your pup’s immune system and nourishes its coat and skin. However, it goes beyond nutrition. Carrots also remove plaque from their teeth and promote good dental health as dogs chew.
3. Apples
Want to give your dog a boost in the necessary vitamins A and C? Grab some apples from your grocery store and give a couple to your pup. In addition to providing them with these essential vitamins, apples are also an excellent source of fiber, which is integral to regulating your dog’s digestion.
Just make sure the apples you feed to your pup are fresh, as rotting apples can lead to alcohol poisoning in canines.
4. Fish
Did you cook up some salmon, tuna, or shrimp and now have some leftovers? It’s safe to feed them to your dog, as fish is an excellent source of protein for them.
Both tuna and salmon are also incredibly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining your dog’s immune system and keeping its coat and skin healthy. Shrimp is high in vitamin B, which also helps regulate the immune system and promote healthy blood circulation.
Remember when preparing this dish for your dog to cook the fish thoroughly. If not properly cooked, it could infect your dog with harmful parasites.
5. Chicken
If your dog is feeling under the weather or has an upset stomach, you can feed it plain, boiled chicken that doesn’t have any seasoning. This is because it’s filled with all the protein, minerals, and vitamins your dog’s diet needs, and it’s gentle enough to give them when they’re not well.
Provide Your Pooch With a Healthy, Balanced Diet
So, now you’re aware of some of the best foods for your pup, you’ll be able to provide it with a tasty, balanced diet. From regulating its digestive system to keeping its coat and fur healthy, you’ll have one happy dog on your hands!
Comments are closed.