It can be hard to resist those sweet puppy dog eyes your dog gives you when you’re eating a meal or having a snack. In some cases, sharing your food with your dog can be safe and enjoyable. In other cases, doing so could be dangerous to your dog’s health. Make sure you know which foods are pet friendly and which foods to avoid, especially with the holidays coming up and more food being passed around.
Meats: Try to stick to lean meats such as chicken, turkey, pork, salmon, or lean beef. Make sure all meat is thoroughly cooked and free of any bones. Avoid processed lunch meats which are often high in sodium.
Vegetables: Many vegetables are safe for dogs and be a healthy treat. Common choices include broccoli, carrots, celery, green beans, and cauliflower. Just make sure the pieces are small enough for your dog to eat without choking. Crunchy vegetables also have the benefit of helping to keep your pet’s teeth cleaner by scraping away plaque buildup. Avoid onions and garlic which can be toxic to dogs.
Fruits: Just like vegetables, many fruits are safe for your dog as well. Give them a refreshing snack of apple slices, watermelon, cantaloupe, blueberries, banana, or cucumber. Steer clear of grapes/raisins and avocadoes, however, which are not safe for dogs to eat.
Other Foods: If your dog has an upset stomach, giving them boiled chicken and rice can be a good way to rebuild their appetite with something that is easy to digest. Small amounts of a cheese can be a tasty treat to get your dog to swallow pills. Peanut butter is also a delicious snack, especially in frozen treats or a toy such as a Kong. Just double check to make sure your peanut butter does not contain xylitol.
Two other foods that are common around the holidays but not safe for dogs are chocolate and macadamia nuts. Discourage family and friends from feeding your dog from their plates or leaving food items close the edge of table or countertop where your dog can reach them. For the most part, your dog should be eating a nutritious and well-balanced dog food that meets their dietary needs. Check with your veterinarian before adding other food items to your dog’s diet.
Board your dog at Lake Wylie Pet Resort to ensure they’re getting regular meals while you’re away and not getting into any food they shouldn’t have – or conning pet sitters into sharing. Book your pet’s next stay by contacting us today!