Plenty of human foods carry real risks for dogs, so this list focuses only on the foods generally considered safe, and always in moderation. New foods are best introduced gradually and in small amount
Plenty of human foods carry real risks for dogs, so this list focuses only on the foods generally considered safe, and always in moderation. New foods are best introduced gradually and in small amounts.
Eggs
Cooked eggs are generally preferable to raw ones, since raw eggs carry a risk of salmonella and can contribute to a biotin deficiency. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and a range of vitamins. There is no need for butter, oil, salt, or pepper, since dogs do not need any of it, and these additions can even cause harm.
Curd or Yoghurt
High in calcium and protein. Plain varieties without artificial sweeteners or added sugar are the safest choice. Yoghurt containing live bacteria can act as a probiotic and support healthy digestion.
Fruit
Peel and slice fruit where needed, and always remove seeds and pith first.
Apple slices: a good source of fibre and vitamins A and C, and can help clean residue from a dog's teeth while freshening breath.
Bananas: rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C.
Blueberries: packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and a healthy snack for dogs of any size.
Cantaloupe: supports eyesight, high in vitamin A and beta carotene, which may help reduce cancer risk and cell damage, along with vitamins B6 and C, fibre, folate, niacin, and potassium. The rind should be avoided, since it can cause intestinal damage.
Cranberries: offer vitamin C, potassium, and fibre, low in calories, with anti-inflammatory properties. They may help reduce plaque and tartar build-up, support bladder health, and lower the risk of gastrointestinal disease.
Mangoes: the flesh is a good source of vitamins A, B6, C, and E, and is safe for dogs.
Oranges: safe and rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fibre, although the acidic taste puts some dogs off.
Peaches: contain vitamins A and C, low in calories, high in fibre, and act as a source of antioxidants that may help ward off cancer, boost immunity, and support liver and kidney function.
Pears: high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fibre, with some research suggesting the fruit may cut stroke risk by around fifty per cent.
Pineapple: remove the prickly peel and crown first. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre, and contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps a dog absorb protein more easily.
Raspberries: contain antioxidants, low in sugar and calories, high in fibre, manganese, and vitamin C, and useful for older dogs thanks to anti-inflammatory properties that can help ageing joints. They do contain small amounts of xylitol, so keep portions to under a cup at a time.
Strawberries: high in fibre and vitamin C, and contain an enzyme that can help whiten a dog's teeth while eating them. They do contain natural sugar, so serve in moderation.
Watermelon: a strong source of lycopene, along with vitamins A, B6, and C, and thiamine. Seeds should be removed, since they contain a trace amount of arsenic.
Vegetables
Vegetables make useful low-calorie snacks and training treats, such as carrot slices, but canned or pickled versions are best avoided due to high salt content. The following vegetables are considered safe for dogs.
Asparagus: cut into bite-sized pieces, it offers vitamins K, A, B1, B2, C, and E, along with folate, iron, copper, fibre, manganese, and potassium.
Broccoli: only in small amounts, best served as an occasional treat. High in fibre and vitamin C and low in fat, though the florets contain isothiocyanates that can cause mild to severe stomach upset in some dogs, and the stalks can risk a blockage in the oesophagus.
Brussels sprouts: provide vitamins K, C, manganese, folate, fibre, potassium, and vitamins A, B1, and B6.
Carrots: an excellent low-calorie snack, high in fibre and beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, and good for dental health too.
Celery: contains vitamins A, B, and C, supports heart health, may help fight cancer, and can freshen a dog's breath.
Cucumber: especially useful for overweight dogs, since it holds very little carbohydrate, fat, or oil, while offering an energy boost and vitamins K, C, and B1, plus potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin.
Green beans: contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium, copper, fibre, folic acid, iron, niacin, manganese, potassium, riboflavin, thiamine, and beta carotene.
Peas: rich in vitamins and minerals, and high in both protein and fibre.
Pumpkin: a good source of fibre plus beta-carotene and vitamin A, and can help keep the digestive tract moving.
Spinach: high in iron, roughly double that of most other sources, and helps counter inflammation, cardiovascular issues, and cancer risk.
Sweet potatoes: rich in vitamins E, A, B6, and C, plus calcium, iron, folate, potassium, copper, and thiamine.
Other Safe Additions
Lean meat: meat without bones, with excess fat trimmed away. Chicken or turkey with the fatty skin removed makes a tasty, protein-rich treat.
Oatmeal: a good source of soluble fibre, particularly useful for senior dogs with bowel irregularity, and a suitable grain alternative for dogs with a wheat allergy. Always cook oatmeal before serving, with no added sugar or flavouring.
Peanut butter: a favourite treat for many dogs, offering protein, heart-healthy fats, vitamin B, niacin, and vitamin E. Choose a raw, unsalted variety, and always check the label to avoid sugar-free or lite versions, since these often contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.
Salmon: a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, supporting a healthy, shiny coat and a strong immune system. Serve it cooked, or add salmon oil to a food bowl.
White rice: a common recommendation for an upset stomach. Boiled white chicken and rice is often used to help a dog get some nutrition while unwell, though it should not be relied on too heavily or for too long.
Human-grade fresh pet food: fresh dog food made from human-grade ingredients is increasingly available for home delivery, worth checking for local suppliers.
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