It is a known fact that dogs have a different digestive system as compared to humans. In other words, some foods that are safe for humans can be harmful or even dangerous for dogs. However, research suggests that there are many human foods that are not only safe for dogs but also can provide important health benefits and nutrition. Confused? Let’s read on to understand the foods that are safe to let your four-legged friend chow down along with you.
1. Chicken - Chicken is a perfectly healthy option! Like other human food that can be fed to dogs, it is important to feed chicken completely unseasoned. Another essential thing to keep an eye on is ensuring there are no bones or chicken fat being served. Cooked chicken bones act as a choking hazard as they tend to break up and can cause a tear in the windpipe or digestive tract.
Feeding your fur baby chicken abiding by the above mentioned guidelines can offer umpteen health benefits. It is a known fact that chicken is a great source of lean protein, which in turn will provide your dog with a burst of energy. The Omega 3 in boiled chicken will ensure your pup has a healthy coat. Chicken also contains the amino acid glucosamine, which is known to promote healthy bones. Additionally, the antioxidants boost your pet’s immune system, further helping them fight off infections.
Chicken can be fed to your dog, as an added food to their ongoing diet. Nonetheless, it should not be served raw.
2. Broccoli - With broccoli being considered a superfood, many family dinners include this healthy vegetable. And guess what, fortunately, broccoli is one of the vegetables that is also considered healthy for your pooch. We’ve always classified dogs as carnivores, turns out they’re facultative carnivores; which means that meat should consist of most of their diet, but they should also consume a balanced amount of plant protein.
Broccoli is power packed with vitamins and minerals, filled with fiber and is super low in calories. Let’s check out some of the health benefits and nutrition it has to offer - Packed with ample amounts of fiber, broccoli keeps your dog’s digestive system healthy. The presence of Vitamin K and C is known to improve the bone density of dogs, keeping them active for longer periods of time as well as boosts the immune system,, while providing anti-inflammatory properties. The numerous minerals in broccoli work together to not only strengthen your dog’s immunity but also the nervous system. And finally, the folic acid helps maintain and promote the production of healthy cells.
3. Egg - An excellent food for your dog. Eggs make for a cheap yet supremely nutritious source of protein. Like most foods, how it's prepared and the amount being fed is key to keeping your dog healthy and happy while enjoying its eggy goodness. They make for a yummy and healthy snack when cooked or boiled.
Eggs are packed with essential amino and fatty acids, protein, vitamins including A and B12, as well as iron, folate and selenium; that together provide an array of health benefits. Some of the benefits include improved skin and coat health, stronger teeth and bones. Need we say more?
4. Sweet Potato - Nutritionists consider sweet potato as a superfood. No wonder it is more often than not on lists of food you should eat! Did you know- The health benefits sweet potato offers to humans are the same for canines. This is one of the major reasons why they are a popular ingredient in commercial dog foods.
Sweet potatoes provide an excellent source of dietary fiber that aids the digestive system of your fur baby and ensures it functions more efficiently. It also consists of Vitamin A that is essential for maintaining healthy muscles, nerves and eyes. Vitamin C on the other hand is crucial for a smooth operating immune system.
5. Pumpkin - If you’re having second thoughts on whether you can feed your dog pumpkin, worry no more. Dogs, most certainly, can be fed pumpkin, as it is a nice change of taste for your pup’s palette. However, it is important to be cautious and serve pumpkin to your dog in moderation.
Pumpkin is definitely healthy for dogs, and forms a vital part of a well-balanced diet. It is a very good source of vitamins A, C, E and dietary fiber. Not only this, the meaty part of the pumpkin adds hydration, which is exceptionally good in cases of pets who don’t drink lots of water throughout the day. Research also suggests that pumpkins possess heaps of potassium that helps regulate blood pressure and improves muscle health of your pet.
A few things to remember, always start with smaller quantities and keep an eye out for difficulty in digesting or food allergies. Lastly, make sure to consult your pet’s veterinarian in case your fur baby’s health responds negatively to any of the mentioned human foods.
In conclusion, the above listed are just a handful of human foods, nonetheless, stay tuned to this space to find out what other human foods are actually nutritious for your little buddies.
Now, go on and invite your furry friend to the table, while you share with them human foods that are healthy and highly nutritious for them. Happy chomping!
