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Healthiest Human
Foods You Should Be
Feeding Your Dog
By Simi

Dogs are mans’ best friend.

They are loyal, loving and
provide us with endless
amounts of entertaining
stories. While your dog may
be only a part of your life,
to them you are everything. You are their entire world. It is, therefore, of the utmost
importance to ensure the health and safety of your furry friend.

The pet food supermarket aisle is brimming with numerous brands of dog food, each
claiming to be the healthiest option for your pooch. This may very well be the case, but
there is a growing number of people who are opting out of feeding their dogs pellets.

These pellets are highly processed and could be the cause of obesity and cancer in your
dog. Dog food is legally allowed to have something called 4-D meat in it. This is meat
which has been taken from dead, diseased or even disabled animals. Added to this
questionable meat is corn, which may be highly contaminated with pesticides, and grain
swept up from the factory floor. Obviously, this is not the main component in all dog
food brands and the general rule of thumb is, cheaper products generally utilize cheaper
ingredients.

Products bought from your local vet may live up to their nutritional promise, but is it not
safer to err on the side of caution? The option available to dog owners is none other
than, human food. Here is a list of human food that will prove delicious and nutritious for
your doggo.
1. Carrots
Munching on a carrot is one
of the healthiest snacks for
a human. The same is true
for dogs. These are some of
the health benefits which
carrots offer your canine
pet. Dental health may
never have crossed your
mind, but keeping your
dog’s mouth and teeth
clean is very important. Some owners have even managed to get into the routine of
brushing their dog’s teeth. If you are not of this group, then give them a carrot.

Chewing on the veggie will mechanically remove plaque from their teeth. Carrots
prevent runny stool. The high fiber content of carrots will help bulk-up your dog’s stool,
thus making messy and runny stool a thing of the past. Eyesight is improved due to the
beta-carotene in carrots. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, which is known to
improve eyesight in humans and dogs alike. Vitamin A is an essential vitamin for dogs
and is always included in commercial dog food.

If you are preparing your dog’s food at home, you need to make sure this is included in
their diet. Luckily, carrots are loaded with this vitamin. In the correct amount, vitamin A
boosts the immune system and improves skin and coat health. It should be noted,
however, that vitamin A in large quantities can be toxic. Consult your vet on the correct
dosage of vitamin A, before tossing a bag of carrots your dog’s way. Carrots are low in
fat and calories.

If your furry child in on the podgy side, this veggie provides a snack which is low in both
fat and calories. Carrots are not easily digested by dogs. In order to make the most of
carrots nutritional content, slightly boil them first.
2. Eggs
In previous years eggs
have been vilified due to
their high cholesterol
content. This myth has
been recently dispelled, as
the cholesterol in eggs is
actually good cholesterol.
With this new-found
knowledge, it’s a good idea
to let your pooch join you
for breakfast this morning. Benefits of eggs include the following.

Amino acids are abundant in eggs. An egg contains everything needed for a chick to
grow and thrive. This includes amino acids which are essential for protein production.
This helps build muscle, strengthen hair and aids in tissue repair. They are also a good
source of Calcium. Everyone knows that calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth.

By grinding up the eggshells and feeding them to your dog, you will be ensuring the
health of your doggie’s teeth and bones. Chemicals and colorants can be a concern here,
so it is suggested that only organic eggs are bought or alternatively, boiling the egg
shells first should sterilize them. Biotin is present in eggs. This vitamin aids in cellular
growth and fatty acid metabolism. Eggs yolks are high in Biotin and will produce healthy
skin and a soft luxurious coat in dogs.

Eggs can be highly beneficial to your dog’s health, but they should not be eaten
excessively. Raw egg whites may inhibit digestion and cause a biotin deficiency. This
could be avoided by cooking the eggs first, but this could also decrease their overall
nutritional value. In order to avoid any digestive upsets, stick to feeding your pooch only
several eggs a week. These should be a combination of cooked and raw. Eggs can prove
to be a wonderfully healthy addition to your dog’s life, but they should be just that, an
addition. Supplement your dog’s meals with eggs, do not make it their staple.
3. Green beans
These veggies are perfect
for dogs who are
overweight and are in need
of a healthy snack. They
can be prepared in any
way, but they must be
served alone. Green beans
that have added salt,
spices, onions, garlic, or oil
should not be given to your
dog. It is best to keep it simple and green to ensure the health and safety of your pet.
Green beans are loaded with vitamins and minerals, providing the following benefits.

Vitamin A, K, and C are all present in green beans. The benefits of Vitamin A have
already been mentioned, but that is not the only vitamin which green beans offer.
Vitamin K is vital for the blood clotting process. It will promote a healthy blood
composition in dogs. Vitamin C aids in immune system support, thus ensuring a dog’s
immunity. Iron is readily available in store-bought dog food and is essential for blood
health. Iron combines with copper and protein to form red blood cells. These are
responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood. While iron is found in meats, fish, and
liver it is also found in green beans.

Magnesium is involved in basically any movement your dog performs. This includes
walking, breathing and even the beating of their heart. Processes which involve sodium,
potassium, and calcium even require magnesium. The high content of this mineral in
green beans makes them a perfect food in preventing a magnesium deficiency.

Green beans are a veritable cornucopia of essential vitamins and minerals. These beans
will provide a healthy, low-fat alternative to dog biscuits. They can constitute up to 50%
of your dog’s diet, but it is recommended to introduce the vegetable in small amounts
then increase the portions as needed.
4. Salmon
While this may seem like an
unnecessarily expensive
food to give your dog, it is
only recommended at most
twice a week. It should
never be fed to your dog
uncooked and should be
served completely
unseasoned. If salmon
proves to be too pricey or
hard to come by, it is not
the only beneficial fish. Cold-water fish such as tuna or herring are both acceptable, as
well as small amount of fish oil. Including these fishy delights in your dog’s diet will
provide the following essential elements.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Even people load themselves up on this oil, so it is very easy to
see how it could be beneficial to your dog. This fatty acid will boost their immune
system, reduce inflammation, and keep their coat healthy and shiny. Salmon is a good
source of protein. Due to the low-fat but high protein content of salmon, it is a very
suitable protein source for dieting pooches. It is also a good substitute protein for dogs
who may be allergic to other meats, such as chicken.

Salmon is generally included in high-end dog food product, thus reinforcing its super-
food status. It can work wonders on your dog’s health, but intake should be strictly
monitored. Dogs should only be given salmon in small portions and quality of fish ought
to be checked beforehand. Poor quality salmon may contain a parasite which causes
salmon poisoning disease. This disease is fatal and should be prevented at all costs.

Canned salmon is a suitable treat for the doggies but there must be absolutely no bones
in it and only salmon canned in water is acceptable. If you are thinking of serving it to
your dog fresh, ensure that there is no seasoning present.
5. Yogurt
This dairy product is a
perfect treat for dogs for all
seasons. The frozen variety
could keep the pooches cool
in summer, while normal
yogurt can keep them
regular and healthy. This
treat is packed with
calcium, just like milk. Yogurt is high in calcium and will promote teeth and bone health
in your furry family member. Probiotics is a strain of good bacteria that are naturally
occurring in mammal’s stomachs.

They aid in the digestion of food, fight off infections and are essential in vitamin and
mineral production and utilization. Dogs and people lacking in probiotics tend to fall ill
more than most and are likely to suffer from recurring bouts of diarrhea. Yogurt is
loaded with probiotics. It is a natural treatment for patients who have either damaged or
decreased amounts of this bacteria.

If your dog is suffering from diarrhea or has been unusually sick lately, then it may be
time to introduce yogurt into their diet. Small dogs can be given 1 to 2 teaspoons, while
medium dogs can have 1 to 2 tablespoons and big dogs up to 4 tablespoons. This can be
given to your dog directly or can even be stirred into their normal food. While yogurt can
be incredibly beneficial to your dog, not all varieties are suitable.

Any yogurt that has artificial sweeteners or added sugar, should definitely be avoided. It
is best to stick with a reputable brand of plain yogurt. One should also be sure that the
yogurt they are purchasing contains active live cultures. Yogurts that do not have this
are almost useless. Cottage cheese is also suitable, but if it seems like your dog has
difficulties digesting dairy then both should be avoided.
6. Chicken
For those pet owners who
are unable to feed their
dogs fish, chicken is a
perfectly healthy option. As
with other human food
which can be served to
dogs, chicken should be
served completely
unseasoned. It is essential that there are no bones or chicken fat served. Cooked
chicken bones are a choking hazard as they can break up and bock or even tear the
windpipe or digestive tract. Chicken prepared in the correct way can offer the following
health benefits.

Chicken is a source of lean protein which will provide your dog with ample amounts of
energy and sustenance. Omega 6 Fatty Acids, like omega 3, will ensure that your pooch
has a healthy coat. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, which are essential
for all bodily functions. Specifically, chicken contains the amino acid glucosamine which
is known to promote healthy bones.

Various Vitamin B’s are also found in chicken. Commercial dog food claims to contain
vitamin B, but they do not disclose how fragile the source is. If these foods are left in
the sun or are allowed to get too hot, the various Vitamin B’s are all but destroyed. This
is not the case with chicken and as these vitamins aid in metabolism, maintain the
nervous system and much more. Chicken is an invaluable source of many of the Vitamin
B’s. Antioxidants boost your pest immune system, thus helping them fight off
infections.

Chicken can be given to your dog as an additive to their regular food or even as a
temporary replacement. It should not be served raw as there is a small risk of
salmonella. A readily available chicken meal is chicken which has had the moisture in it
reduced, therefore upping the protein content.
7. Pumpkin
Like salmon, pumpkin is a
superfood. It boasts an
ample number of vitamins,
minerals, and fiber. These
aid in the health of the
urinary tract. Pumpkin
seeds and skins both
contain certain oils. These
oils will help maintain the
health of your dog’s urinary
tract. Dogs who suffer from incontinence regarding urination could definitely use some
pumpkin in their diet. Pumpkin also regulates digestion. This is as a result of a large
amount of fiber in pumpkin. Fiber regulates digestion and adds bulk to stool, therefore
reducing the incidents of diarrhea in your dog.

It even aids in weight loss. Pumpkin delivers all these nutrients but does not come with
the added calories. By replacing some of your dog’s regular food with pumpkin, you
could help your dog shed some of those unhealthy and bothersome pounds. It is known
to be a natural deworming agent. Pumpkin seeds have an amino acid called cucurbatin.
This has been seen to effectively rid both humans and dogs of certain parasites that
thrive in the digestive tract.

Literally, the entire pumpkin can be given to your dog. The seeds can be ground up and
sprinkled over their food and the rest can simply be cooked and fed to them directly.
Pumpkin not only can improve your dog’s health, but it is also very tasty.

It should not be hard to convince your pooch to eat this, without the need for any added
spices or oils. Small dogs can be fed 1 to 2 teaspoons a day, it is 1 to 2 tablespoons for
medium dogs and up to 5 tablespoons for large dogs. For every 10 pounds that your dog
weighs, it can be given a quarter of a teaspoon of ground pumpkin seeds in their food on
a daily basis.
8. Peanut Butter
This tasty spread should
not only be included in your
diet, but also in your dogs.
If a healthy and organic
product is bought it could
prove to be an incredible
new addition to your dog’s
meals. Peanut butter
contains a whole host of
vitamins.

Vitamin E boosts the immune system, ensuring that your dog does not get sick. Vitamin
B, is already known to be essential for a healthy coat and skin. The specific proteins and
fats found in peanut butter are desirable because they do not negatively impact your
canines heart. This treat will give them the nutrients needed for energy and growth,
without the added unhealthy fats which accompany other protein sources.

Niacin is the name of a vitamin which forms part of the Vitamin B family. This vitamin
family as a whole contributes to skin and coat health. In particular, this vitamin also
promotes proper circulation. Giving your dog a tablespoon of peanut butter every now
and again can be very beneficial, but there are a few things that need to be considered.
Firstly, too much peanut butter can not only contribute to obesity, but it could lead to
pancreatitis.

If you are unsure how much peanut butter to give your dog, your first call of port should
be your vet. Another option is to simply follow the 10% rule. Here you limit your dog’s
treats to only 10% of the total amount of food they eat. Peanut butter brands that are
suitable for dogs are ones that have no sugar, no sodium, are low in fats and have
absolutely no Xylitol. This replacement for sugar may not impact people much, but it is
incredibly dangerous to dogs.
9. Coconut
These days coconut and its
various extracts are all the
rage. People are cooking
with it, eating it, and even
cleaning their teeth with it.
This food may not
traditionally be a western
staple, but it sure has been
wholeheartedly accepted as one now. While it is the biggest trend amongst human folk,
it should be noted that it can offer the canine species with some spectacular benefits
too.

Lauric acid is an easily digestible fatty acid that is found in large quantities in coconut
meat itself. Because the whole molecule can be absorbed and does not need to be
broken down, it is a very efficient source of energy. Lauric acid can also fight infections
and viruses. These include influenza, Giardia, and ringworms, to name but a few. Lastly,
this acid is an anti-inflammatory. Therefore, it can help speed up the healing process
and can even relieve some of the discomforts of dogs who suffer from arthritis.

Anti-oxidants found in the coconut’s meat and oil which will boost your dog’s immune
system. Oils present in coconuts can either be ingested or rubbed onto your dog’s skin,
the results are basically the same. Coconut oil will improve the overall health of your
dog’s skin and will improve the texture and quality of his fur coat.

Coconut is completely non-toxic to dogs. The meat or oils can be added to their food or
served as a separate treat. It will improve their health and even the water will aid in
hydration, as it has high levels of electrolytes. For every 10 pounds that your dog
weighs, it is allowed 1 tablespoon of coconut oil daily.
10. Oatmeal
This cereal is actually
abundant in store-bought
dog food. It is, therefore, a
healthy option for all dogs,
even ones that are sensitive
to grain, and can be very
easily prepared at home.
Oatmeal can be beneficial
in the following ways.

It is a good source of carbohydrates. Not only is oatmeal not a highly processed

carbohydrate but it is not robust. Certain dogs can be quite sensitive to other grains due
to their high gluten content, this is not the case here. Oats serve as a perfect substitute
for dogs who otherwise cannot eat other grains. Linoleic acid is an Omega 6 fatty acid
found in coconuts and, as mentioned previously, is key in the maintenance of healthy
skin.

It has already been clarified that fiber aids in the regulation of your pup’s digestive
processes, but the soluble fiber in oatmeal has other beneficial qualities. This being that
soluble fiber is able to regulate the level of glucose in your dog’s blood. This is a vital
step in preventing diabetes.

Pantothenic acid is another type of vitamin B which may prove essential for dogs with a
nervous disposition. Commonly known as vitamin B5, it is useful in the metabolism of
vitamins and is vital in the processes which convert protein, carbohydrates, and fats into
energy. It can also help to decreases the incidents of anxiety and depression in dogs.

Oatmeal should be prepared and served in the simplest way possible. There should be
no added sugar, butter, or artificial sweeteners. Oats can act as a healthy addition to
your dog’s diet, but it should not replace it. You can either add a spoonful to your dog’s
food or serve them a cup for breakfast once a week.
11. Certain Berries
These include blueberries,
strawberries, and
blackberries. The three of
these berries host tons of
health benefits but they are
the only ones which should
be fed to your pooch.
Others such as cherries,
holly berries, juniper
berries and mistletoes
berries not only contain pits, which are a choking hazards, but they may also have
chemicals which could prove disastrous to your pup’s health.

All three berries contain loads of antioxidants. Antioxidants have the incredible ability to
combat free radicals. The action of free radicals is a natural process which slowly
degrades membranes, proteins, and DNA. They are largely responsible for the aging
process. While antioxidants cannot possibly stop this process, they will ensure that your
pooch does not age rapidly or unhealthily.

Blueberries have phytochemicals. While these boast no nutritional value, their impact on
certain processes gives them value. Phytochemicals have been known to prevent cancer
in pets. Phenolic acid is a particular one which is found in blueberries and reduces the
damaging effects of carcinogens. There is a special enzyme in strawberries. This enzyme
will maintain the oral hygiene of your pet and can whiten their teeth.

Vitamin C is vital to human survival, but it has a surprising effect on dogs. Yes, it boosts
the immune system, but it can also act as a calming agent. According to certain studies
done, when a dog is stressed it runs through a large amount of vitamin C. Stocking your
pet up on berries could help rebuild these stores. Berries contain a fair amount of
naturally occurring sugar, and therefore should not be excessively fed to your dog. They
do however make for a tasty treat.
12. Pineapple
This tropical fruit could be
the perfect summer treat
for your furry loved one.
Like most fruit, it is stocked
with all the essential
vitamins and minerals, plus
it is absolutely delicious.
Pineapples most notable
nutrients are the following.

Thiamine, otherwise known as Vitamin B1, is quite necessary for your dog’s bodily
functions. It helps your dog break down and utilize carbohydrates, ensures regular and
normal growth, and regulates the activity and conduction of nerve impulses. Riboflavin,
which is also part of the Vitamin B family. This is vitamin B2. It, like other vitamin B’s, is
sensitive to light. This means that even if it is in your local pet stores’ dog food, the
chances of your pet actually digesting it is quite slim. Vitamin B2 is a coenzyme. This
means that it is vital to the function of other enzymes. In this case, the processes which
it affects are the metabolism of fat, carbohydrates, and proteins for energy.

It may seem odd to think of the fact that the body needs metals, but it does. The same
is true for dogs. Consuming adequate amounts of copper will ensure that the correct
amount of iron is absorbed, bone and connective tissue is formed, red blood cells
mature, antioxidants function correctly and your dog’s hair will have the correct
pigmentation.

Pineapples are wonderfully sweet. While this will make it a much-anticipated treat for
your dog, it should be given in moderation. You should not feed them the outer skin or
hard inner core. This is because these could result in choking. If you are keen to give
hairy hoppers a summer treat, limit it to a few soft cubes, maybe once or twice a week.
13. Green Peas
These gluten-free legumes
are a wondrous addition to
dog food. They can be
given to the pups in any
way, as long as there are
no additives, sugar, or salt
present. Here are a few
reasons to add these little
green delights to your pet’s
food bowl.

Lutein belongs to the anti-oxidant group. It has been mentioned that anti-oxidants
combat free radicals, but it was not mentioned where. Lutein is a carotenoid antioxidant
found in green peas. This means, that it specifically aids in preventing the damage of
retinas and lens’ by free radicals. The retinas and lens’ in your dog’s eyes are especially
susceptible to this kind of damage. It is due to the fact that dog’s eyes are more
exposed to light than your average human.

Green peas have a very high protein and carbohydrate content but do not come with the
added gluten. This will be a welcomed bonus to pet owners who have dogs with sensitive
stomachs. By giving them peas instead of other gluten ridden carbohydrates, you will
have a pet who is active and has a healthy digestive system. Some of the vitamins
which are found in peas include, Vitamin A, B1, B6, K, and C.

Overall, these will result in a puppy who has healthy bones, teeth, skin, fur, and blood.
Green peas are also high in fiber. Food which has high fiber contents regulate digestion.
This has the added benefits of keeping your dog’s cholesterol at a healthy level and it
prevents excessive weight gain. This British staple is commonly found in commercial dog
food. With the listed benefits above, it is very easy to see why. If you are going the
homemade route, don’t forget to add this veggie.
14. Sweet
potatoes and
Potatoes
Both of these are safe and
healthy for your dog to eat.
As with every other human
food on this list, they
should not have any
seasoning or additives.
Potatoes belong to the
nightshade family, and therefore should NEVER be fed to dogs raw. Sweet potatoes and
potatoes can be boiled / baked to provide dogs with the following vitamins and minerals.

Manganese is specifically found in sweet potatoes. It is essential in the energy

production and usage processes. It aids in the utilization of proteins and carbohydrates
and contributes to the enzymes which are responsible for energy production. Even good
pet food has small amounts of manganese in them. Sweet potatoes are an easy, tasty
way to get this mineral into your dog’s body.

Potassium is synonymous with bananas. But the yellow fruit is not the only one that can
boast high potassium levels. There are sufficient amounts of potassium in potatoes. The
ion is a vital intracellular component, this means that is it found in abundance inside the
cell. It is necessary for the regulation of muscle cells and neurons, and it ensures the
correct balance of fluids in your pet’s body. Vitamin A, C, and B6 are all vitamins found
in potatoes, which will protect the eyesight, immune system, fur, and skin of your dog.

Potatoes may be good for dogs, but only if they are given to them in moderation. Dogs
are not built the same way as humans. They are more suited to deriving energy from
animal sources as opposed to plant sources. But that doesn’t mean to say that canines
don’t benefit from a veggie every now and again. Sweet potatoes are the healthier
option, so attempt to include it sparingly in their diet.
15. Rice
Rice is known to alleviate
the symptoms of an upset
stomach in dogs, but that is
not its only use. Rice is
actually one of the human
foods which can be given to
dogs on a daily basis. It is a
good source of
carbohydrates, and it is not
encumbered by fats,
cholesterol, or sodium. Rice can offer your dog the following benefits.

The digestion of starch only begins once it has reached the stomach. This is a complex
carbohydrate present in rice, and thus will leave your dog feeling fuller due to the
increased absorption time. This is particularly attractive to dog owners with pups who
are overweight. Insoluble fiber is found in brown rice and can actually help protect your
doggie from cancer. Neurotransmitter nutrients are also naturally occurring in brown rice
and can help prevent Alzheimer’s.

Iron is vital component in red blood cells and is therefore required in adequate amounts
in order to prevent anemia. Iron is abundant in meat, but most meat comes with fat.
Rice does not. Niacin is Vitamin B3 and is present in all rice. It is central in enzymatic
and hormonal control. Niacin is used in the production of estrogen and testosterone and
it regulates nervous system activity and digestion. While a vitamin D deficiency in dogs
has not been documented much, it is vital for correct bone growth and formation.

Giving your dog rice will provide them with stores of this vitamin, in case of an
emergency. Due to the low amounts of sodium in rice, it is a very beneficial food for
dogs who suffer from high blood pressure. Cooked rice can be fed to your dog every day
but not in excessively large quantities. With this diet, a dog must also be given adequate
amounts of water to prevent constipation.