What can dogs eat from the table?

What can dogs eat from the table? - briefly

Dogs can safely consume certain human foods such as cooked chicken or turkey without bones, plain rice, and small amounts of fruits like apples and bananas. However, it's crucial to avoid giving them chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and macadamia nuts, which are toxic to dogs.

What can dogs eat from the table? - in detail

Dogs are omnivores, but their digestive systems are not as robust as ours. While it might be tempting to share human food with your furry friend, it's crucial to know which foods are safe and which are not. Here is a comprehensive list of what dogs can and cannot eat from the table:

Safe Foods:

  1. Lean Proteins: Cooked chicken, turkey, beef, and fish (like salmon) are generally safe for dogs in small amounts. Ensure that the meat is boneless and well-cooked to avoid choking hazards and bacterial infections.

  2. Fruits: Apples, bananas, blueberries, and watermelon can be given to dogs in moderation. Make sure to remove any seeds or pits, as they can pose a choking hazard or contain harmful substances like cyanide.

  3. Vegetables: Carrots, peas, green beans, and pumpkin are nutritious and safe for dogs. They should be cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking.

  4. Dairy Products: Small amounts of plain yogurt or cheese can be given to dogs as an occasional treat. However, many dogs are lactose intolerant, so monitor your dog for any signs of stomach upset.

  5. Whole Grains: Cooked brown rice and oats are safe for dogs in small quantities. They can provide additional fiber and nutrients.

Unsafe Foods:

  1. Chocolate: Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate is particularly dangerous.

  2. Grapes and Raisins: Highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause kidney failure.

  3. Onions and Garlic: Contain thiosulfates that can damage a dog's red blood cells and lead to anemia.

  4. Avocado: The pit, skin, and leaves contain persin, which can be toxic to dogs. While the flesh is generally safe, it should be given in very small amounts due to its high fat content.

  5. Macadamia Nuts: Can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, and increased body temperature in dogs.

  6. Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal damage. Even raw bones should be given with caution.

  7. Salty Foods: High salt intake can lead to excessive thirst and urination, or even sodium ion poisoning in dogs.

  8. Sugary Foods and Sweets: Excessive sugar can lead to obesity, dental problems, and other health issues in dogs. Artificial sweeteners like xylitol are particularly dangerous and can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure.

  9. Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea, and some sodas, caffeine is highly toxic to dogs and can cause restlessness, rapid heartbeat, muscle tremors, and even death.

  10. Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous for dogs, leading to intoxication, lack of coordination, weakness, and in severe cases, coma or death.

General Guidelines:

  • Always introduce new foods gradually and in small quantities to monitor your dog's reaction.
  • Avoid giving table scraps that are high in fat, sugar, or salt, as these can contribute to obesity and other health issues.
  • Ensure that any human food given to dogs is cooked properly to kill bacteria and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
  • Remember that while some foods are safe for dogs, they should not make up more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. The rest should come from a balanced dog food formulated to meet their specific nutritional needs.

By being informed and cautious about what you feed your dog from the table, you can help ensure their health and well-being while still allowing them to enjoy some tasty treats.