Those irresistible puppy eyes while you’re munching on a snack can be hard to resist. Instead of feeling guilty or worrying about whether it’s safe, share some snacks that are good for both of you. Believe it or not, plenty of human foods are not only safe but also healthy for your furry friend. Here are a handful of snacks you can enjoy together, making snack time fun for both you and your dog.
Apples
Apples are a crunchy treat full of vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for your dog’s health. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core, they’re toxic!
Bananas
Bananas are a high-energy snack loaded with potassium and vitamins. Their soft texture and sweetness make them an instant hit with dogs. However, due to their sugar content, they should be given in moderation. Just a few slices is perfect for your pup.
Berries
Berries, including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are low in calories and rich in antioxidants, making them a superfood for dogs. They’re also a refreshing treat on a hot day if frozen first.
Eggs
Cooked eggs are a great source of protein and can help soothe upset doggy stomachs. Don’t use butter or oil when cooking them for your dog, those are unneeded fats that can cause stomach issues.
Popcorn
Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs in small amounts. It contains magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc, which are all important nutrients for dogs. Just skip the butter, salt and any other seasonings you’d use for yourself.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is high in fiber and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for dogs’ digestive health. Make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not the spiced pie filling – the cans look very similar!
Protein
Meats like chicken, turkey, beef, salmon, lamb and rabbit are all fantastic sources of protein for dogs. They support muscle development and energy levels. Healthy proteins are the basis of a dog’s diet and their muscles can atrophy quickly without it. This is a snack you can’t go wrong with sharing.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a delicious, high-protein treat for dogs, but make sure it’s free from xylitol, a toxic sweetener to dogs. It’s also a great way to hide pills!
Carrots
Crunchy carrots are low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins. Chewing on them can also help improve your dog’s dental health by acting as a natural toothbrush.
Green Beans
Green beans are full of important vitamins and minerals, and they’re also low in calories, making them a perfect snack for overweight dogs. Make sure they’re plain and cooked without any added oils or spices.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A, E, and C and can be a crunchy, flavorful treat for your dog. Start with small amounts to ensure they agree with your dog’s stomach.
Celery
Celery is another low-calorie, high-fiber snack that can help freshen your dog’s breath. It’s also loaded with vitamins A, B, and C.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are perfect for overweight dogs, as they’re low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. They provide a crunchy, hydrating snack without any added fats or oils.
7 Common Foods Dogs Are Allergic To And What To Do About It
Ever wonder why your dog starts scratching like there’s no tomorrow or gets those mysterious tummy troubles? It might be more than just a bad day; it could be a food allergy. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill immediate reactions; food allergies in dogs usually show up after they’ve been eating the same thing for a while.
And guess what? It’s usually not grains causing the fuss but proteins. While not as common as those pesky seasonal sniffles or reactions to fleas, food allergies do affect our furry friends, and figuring out the culprit ingredient can really turn things around for them.
Read it Here: 7 Common Foods Dogs Are Allergic To And What To Do About It
Supercharge Your Dog’s Kibble With These 8 Flavorful Toppings
Dinnertime with your furry friend can be a bit…well, bland. Kibble on its own gets repetitive, and let’s face it, we all get tired of eating the same thing every day. We’ve got some super simple and pawsome ideas to add some excitement to your dog’s meals. These toppers are easy to add, nutritious, and most importantly, delicious! Turn mealtime into a tail-wagging fiesta for your pup.
Read it Here: Supercharge Your Dog’s Kibble With These 8 Flavorful Toppings
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
