Explore human foods that are generally safe for dogs when prepared correctly and given in moderation. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice.
Meats
Chicken
Excellent source of protein.
Portion: Small amounts, boneless and skinless.
Preparation: Boiled or baked, plain, no seasoning. Cut into small pieces.
Benefits: High in protein, essential amino acids, supports muscle health.
Beef (Lean)
Rich in iron and zinc.
Portion: Small, unseasoned, cooked. Trim off all fat.
Preparation: Plain, cooked (boiled, baked, grilled), no spices or sauces.
Benefits: Provides essential amino acids, iron, and B vitamins.
Vegetables
Carrots
Good for dental health.
Portion: Small pieces, raw or cooked.
Preparation: Raw, steamed, or boiled. No butter or seasonings.
Benefits: Rich in Vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
Green Beans
Low calorie, high fiber.
Portion: Small amounts, can be a good treat for weight management.
Preparation: Steamed or raw. Avoid canned green beans with added salt.
Benefits: Vitamins K, C, and A, plus manganese and fiber.
Fruits
Apples
Good source of fiber.
Portion: Small slices. Remove core and seeds.
Preparation: Raw, fresh. Ensure no seeds as they contain cyanide.
Benefits: Vitamins A and C, fiber. Helps clean teeth.
Bananas
High in potassium.
Portion: Small slices, in moderation due to sugar content.
Preparation: Peeled, raw. Can be mashed or frozen as a treat.
Benefits: Potassium, vitamins, fiber. Good for digestion.
Dairy (in moderation)
Plain Yogurt
Contains probiotics.
Portion: Small dollop. Ensure it's plain, no sweeteners.
Preparation: Plain, unsweetened, live cultures. Avoid flavored or artificially sweetened yogurts.
Benefits: Probiotics for gut health, calcium, protein. Check for lactose intolerance.
Foods to NEVER Feed Your Dog
These foods are toxic or harmful to dogs and should be strictly avoided. Keep them out of reach of your pets.
Grapes & Raisins
Can cause acute kidney failure.
Onion & Garlic
Toxic, damages red blood cells (anemia).
Chocolate
Contains theobromine, highly toxic.
Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)
Causes rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia.
Cooked Bones
Can splinter, causing choking or internal injury.
Fatty/Greasy Foods
Can cause pancreatitis, vomiting, diarrhea.
Understanding Portion Sizes & Preparation
Portion Guidelines
Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your dog's diet. Leftovers should be a small treat, not a meal replacement, making up no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Start with tiny amounts to check for sensitivities and avoid overfeeding, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
Preparing Leftovers Safely
When preparing human food for your dog, always remove bones, skin, and excessive fat. Ensure all seasonings, spices, and sauces are completely absent. Cook foods plain (boiled, steamed, baked). Cut all food into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking, especially for smaller dogs.
Nutrition Insights & Visualizations
Understand the nutritional benefits of safe foods and visually compare safe vs. unsafe options.
Safe vs. Unsafe Foods Overview
A visual representation of common safe and unsafe foods for dogs.
Nutritional Values of Safe Leftovers
Compare key nutritional values (e.g., protein, fiber, vitamins) across different safe food items.
My Safe Foods Checklist
Track the safe foods you've identified and can feed your dog. This list is personalized to your selections.
No foods added to your checklist yet. Expand a food's details and check the box to add it!