Foods which are safe and harmful for dogs

Strawberry – should be given in moderation, which helps in digestion and whiten teeth of dogs.

Apple – is considered a good snack for dogs. Apples too contain sugar , so it should also be fed in moderation.

Broccoli – is good, it contains anti-oxidants, but rarely given to dogs, it also contains isothiocyanates which can cause gastric irritation in some dogs.

Cabbage – shouldn’t be over-fed as it can also cause gas.

Spinach – is good but occasionally given to dogs as it is high in oxalic acid , which blocks body’s ability to absorb calcium and can lead to kidney damage. But only a large amount of spinach can cause this problem.

Carrot – is low in calories, high in fibre and vitamin A, and is great for teeth, plus it acts like a natural dewormer in dogs.

Unsalted pop corn – should be given in moderation.

Brinjal – is good for dogs but should be given in moderation.

Eggs – Don’t exceed more than one egg per day per dog.

Fish oil – is very beneficial for dogs skin and coat. It helps to curb allergies in dogs.

Meat – is by default a main course food for dogs.

Chicken – is again, a main course food and is required mandatorily by dogs as it contains essential proteins needed by dogs for their development and growth. Please don’t add salt to their chicken as their salt requirement is very low in comparison to humans. In any case, in case of salt toxicity or hyper-natremia please consult vet doctor.

Papaya – is beneficial to dogs and can be given every alternate day to dogs.

Peanut butter – without sweet (xylitol) and salt can be given to dogs in moderation.

Pineapple – without peel and crown helps dogs in easier digestion. Contains vitamins, mineral and fibre.

Peeled boiled potato – in moderation acts as a great snack.

Raspberry – in negligible amounts and basically, they are more for senior dogs as they have anti inflammatory property for joints. It also contains xylitol in small amount which is harmful for dogs. It also contains fibre, manganese, vit c.

Mango – in occasional treats. It contains vit A, B6, C, E, potassium, beta carotene, alpha carotene, but it is high in sugar, hence it can given occasionally to dogs. Just like other fruits it’s cover contains cyanide, so cover should be removed first.

Rice – is the portion of main course food and helps in keeping good digestion. So, feed rice as much as your dog wants.

Sweet potato – is again a good treat for dogs, but in moderation

Yoghurt – without salt, sugar, flavour, and 3 to 4 teaspoons can be fed everyday.

Milk (depends upon lactose tolerance) It is still a debatable topic, however don’t feed milk to adult dogs in large quantities.

Roti or flat bread – can be given in moderation only. Donot give chapati to dogs on daily basis (as suggested by many vets).

Paneer/ cheese – can be given to dogs.

Pumpkin – is very beneficial for dogs in their digestion.

Dalia/ oats – can be given to dogs.

Blueberry – is a superfood in antioxidants, which prevents cell damage and packed with fibres and phytochemicals.

Bananas – it contains sugar so should be given as a part of treat not main diet.  It contains potassium, vitamin, biotin, copper, fibre. Also it is low in cholesterol and sodium.

Cantaloupe – in moderation because of its sweet content. It is a source of water and fibre. 

Cranberries – in treats in small quantities only. Large quantity can cause upset stomach.

Cucumbers – esp for over weight dogs. Boost energy levels and loaded with vit K, C, B1, potassium, copper, magnesium, biotin.

Oranges – in moderation and without peel because peel is dangerous on digestive systems and oils and can cause sensitive nose.

Peaches – as a summer treat in moderation because of it’s sugar content. It contains vit A, fibre but like cherries it’s pit contains cyanide.

Pears – in moderation can help reduce stroke risk. Contains vit C, K, copper, fibre. Eating the pears lessens the risk of stroke by 50 percent in dogs.

Only ripened tomato without seeds and in very very small amount.

Water melon – after removing seeds and rind, as seeds can cause intestinal blockage. It is full of vit A, C, B6 and potassium and best for summer. 

Brussel sprouts – contains anti oxidants good for both humans and dogs but don’t over feed because they cause lot of gas. 

Celery – contains vit A, B, C which helps in healthy heart and fights cancer and helps in freshen dog breathe.

Green beans – chopped steamed, raw or canned are safe and contains antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

Peas – have several vitamins, minerals and rich in protein and fibre

Harmful foods for dogs –

1. Alcohol
2. Apple seeds
3. Caffeine
4. Candies, chocolate
5. Avocado
6. Grapes, raisin
7. Ice cream, sugar
8. Onion, garlic, Ginger
9. Spices, salt, sugar
10. Xylitol
11. Cherries
12. Tomatoes
13. Asparagus
14. Mushrooms