We've all heard that certain foods shouldn't be eaten by our dogs, such as chocolate or grapes. What is a tasty snack for us can pose a great danger to our pets. But not all foods are bad for our four-legged friends. In this article we will introduce you to 8 foods that are safe for dogs.
1. Peanuts
Peanuts are a delicious snack between meals. And if your dog wants to try a peanut, he can too! Peanuts can be eaten by dogs (in moderation). They're high in vitamins and minerals that are good for your pet's health, but they're also high in fat. Therefore, you should only feed peanuts to your dog occasionally, while also considering your pet's weight and overall health. The peanuts should be fed unseasoned and without the shell. A little tip: if your dog doesn't want to swallow his pills, you can try putting the medicine in a spoonful of unsalted and unsweetened peanut butter.
2. Apples
Apples are a healthy snack that's not only pet-friendly, but also contributes to your dog's dental health. The peel of the apple cleans and strengthens the teeth from the outside. What you should pay attention to: The apple should be cut into small slices and fed to your dog without the stem, core or seeds. These contain toxins that could harm your pet's health.
3. Yoghurt
In general, dairy products can have harmful effects on our pets because they are not very good at digesting dairy products, especially lactose. This often leads to stomach problems and diarrhea. But if you feed your dog a tablespoon of yoghurt every now and then, this can actually be good for your four-legged friend's health. Not only is yogurt high in calcium, which is good for bones and teeth, but it's also a natural probiotic that can improve your dog's gut flora.
4. Fish
Cats aren't the only pets who enjoy eating fish. Fish, such as salmon, can definitely be on your dog's menu because they are high in protein and relatively low in fat. Here are a few things to keep in mind: The fish should be unseasoned and cooked, with the head, tail, and bones removed. Commonly "dog-safe" fish include salmon, catfish, cod, and flounder. If you are unsure whether your dog should eat fish, it is best to consult your veterinarian.
5. Honey
Honey is known as a natural remedy for all sorts of health problems and has been used for thousands of years. Did you know that honey is also good for your four-legged friend's health? Honey contains many vitamins that strengthen your dog's immune system and especially helps with coughs and digestive problems. However, honey also contains a lot of sugar, which is why your dog should only get it in moderation and depending on its weight. You should not give honey to your dog if he is diabetic, allergic to bees in general, a puppy, or a senior.
6. Incense
It may sound a bit unusual, but incense capsules are an effective pain reliever for dogs with chronic pain, such as those caused by arthritis or osteoporosis. Humans have long taken frankincense to relieve their chronic pain conditions, but it also works for dogs. According to a 2004 study, frankincense has been shown to reduce chronic pain and inflammation in dogs suffering from chronic joint and back pain. The dogs that took part in the study were less stiff and more flexible after taking the incense for a longer period of time. If you're thinking about giving your dog frankincense capsules, contact your veterinarian to discuss including frankincense in your dog's diet.
7. Bananas
Bananas are rich in nutrients and will give you an energy boost throughout the day. Best of all, dogs can achieve the same effect! Bananas are safe for dogs and contain fiber, biotin, and potassium, which are beneficial to your dog's health. However, since bananas are high in sugar, you should only give them to your dog in moderation.
8. Cucumber
To end this list on a refreshing note, let's talk cucumbers. We all know and love them (mostly), whether as a snack between meals or as a refreshing touch in a salad. Even our dogs can easily eat cucumbers if they are unseasoned. Their freshness can be a real blessing for our four-legged friends. Cucumbers are also high in water and low in calories, making them a delicious snack.
We've come to the end of our list, but there's still so much to learn about dog nutrition. If you're curious and want to learn more, check out our article on human foods that can harm your dog. If you are unsure about any of the above foods, consult your veterinarian to make sure it fits into your dog's diet.
