Sharing food with your dog sounds risky, but not all human treats are off-limits. You may have been avoiding berries, bananas, or even yogurt, but these are actually safe and healthy for your furry friend. Read on for the complete list of 15 foods you can share with your dog (and prepare for them to beg for seconds).
15. Oats
Plain, cooked oats can be a safe and nutritious option for dogs. They’re rich in fiber, which aids in digestion, and contains essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins. Introduce oats gradually into your dog’s diet to prevent digestive upset. Cook them thoroughly, without any salt, added sugars, or flavorings.
14. Cheese
That’s right, cheese is a safe treat for many dogs, especially when given in moderation. It contains protein and calcium (for bone health), but it’s also high in fat. So offer sparingly to prevent weight gain. Choose low-fat varieties like cheddar or mozzarella and serve in bite-sized pieces.
13. Yogurt
Yogurt can be a good source of probiotics and calcium for dogs, but make sure to always choose varieties without added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Serve in moderation, as too much yogurt may lead to digestive upset, especially for dogs who are lactose intolerant.
12. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a tasty treat that many pups enjoy. It’s high in healthy fats and protein, which can provide energy and support overall health. Check the label to ensure that the peanut butter doesn’t contain xylitol, because this is a sweetener that’s toxic to dogs. A small spoonful makes a nice treat or an easy way to give medicine.
11. Rice
Plain, cooked white rice (or brown rice) is safe for dogs, especially for those with digestive issues. It’s easy on the stomach and can help firm up stool in cases of diarrhea. Just cook the rice thoroughly and serve plain, without added seasonings or oils.
10. Chicken
Dogs go crazy about chicken and that’s because this lean protein is also a tasty treat for them. It’s commonly used in commercial dog foods, and is safe for pups when prepared correctly. Cook chicken thoroughly to remove harmful bacteria. Throw away any bones, as they can cause choking or internal injuries. Serve the chicken plain, with no seasonings or additives.
9. Eggs
Eggs are loaded with high-quality protein and can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. They have essential amino acids and fatty acids that promote muscle development and support overall health. You can have the eggs boiled or scrambled without oil or seasoning. Serve in moderation; one egg per week is usually enough for dogs.
8. Spinach
Spinach is safe for dogs in small amounts, delivering nutrients like fiber, iron, and antioxidants. However, spinach is high in oxalates, which can interfere with calcium absorption. To serve, lightly steam spinach and remove the tough stems. It’s better as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of the diet. If your dog has a history of kidney issues, consult your vet first before introducing spinach.
7. Pumpkin
Plain, cooked pumpkin is one of the safest and healthiest foods you can feed your pup. It’s rich in fiber, which helps with constipation and diarrhea. It also contains vitamins C and A that support the immune system. When serving, always use plain canned pumpkin without added sugar or spices.
6. Watermelon
We’ve seen TikTok videos of dogs eating watermelon slices, and yes they’re safe. It’s low in calories and contains vitamins A, B6, and C. And most importantly, watermelon is refreshingly tasty and hydrating for dogs. Serve them in manageable pieces based on your dog’s size, and remove the seeds and rind as they can cause choking.
5. Sweet Potatoes
When prepared correctly, sweet potatoes can be a nutritious food option for dogs. They’re packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting digestion and the immune system. Boiled or baked sweet potatoes are best. As usual, avoid adding seasonings or additives like butter or salt.
4. Carrots
We love carrots for dogs because they’re low in calories and high in fiber and beta-carotene, which supports eye health. The best part? Carrots can also help in cleaning your dog’s teeth while satisfying their natural urge to chew. Serve them raw or lightly steamed, and cut into appropriate sizes (based on your dog’s breed or size) to prevent choking.
3. Strawberries
Sweet and healthy, dogs love strawberries! They’re rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which help with your dog’s immune system and overall health. To serve, wash the strawberries and cut into small pieces. Remove the stems and leaves before feeding, and offer the berries in moderation, as too many may cause digestive upset.
2. Bananas
Some worry about the sugar content in bananas, but these are actually safe for dogs in moderation. Bananas are even recommended as a healthier alternative to fatty treats. Peel and slice into small pieces, offering 1-2 slices for small dogs, and up to a handful for large dogs. For extra-large breeds, half a banana should be enough.
1. Blueberries
Blueberries check the several “must-have” boxes for dog-friendly human foods. These fruits are widely recognized as safe by experts when served in moderation. Blueberries are also nutrient dense, packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K. Unlike other fruits, these berries are low-calorie and low-sugar, making them a great treat option even for overweight or diabetic dogs. Always introduce blueberries gradually and cut in half for tiny dogs.