Is it safe to give a dog?

We all have been in that situation where we’re having a meal and our furry friend is giving us those puppy dog eyes, begging for a bite. As tempting as it may be to share your food with your pooch, the question still lingers – is it safe? In this article, we’ll delve into that very question and alleviate any concerns or worries you may have about table scraps.

The Short Answer

The easy answer would be no; however, humans and canines are different species with different dietary needs. So while feeding scraps from the occasional dinner party might not hurt them so much, making a habit of feeding human food could lead to obesity and other health problems.

Why Do We Feed Our Dogs Human Food?

It’s difficult to resist those puppy eyes staring at you while you eat dinner at night. It’s convenient too! You won’t need to go out of your way buying special dog food if there’s edibles on hand around the house. Some people even think providing dogs leftovers makes them feel included in family activities such as meals or movies.

Commonly Shared Foods

Here’s some common foods often shared between dogs and their owners:

  • Meat
  • Chicken
  • Beef
  • Pork
  • Vegetables & Fruits
  • Carrots
  • Green Beans
  • Apples
  • Cheese/Cottage Cheese

Factors To Consider Before Feeding Human Food To Dogs

Before handing over tidbits from your plate consider these factors:

Portion Size Matters

As pet owners ourselves , sometimes there’s excess portions left over which we give away nibbles here or there. However when feeding pets if they require large portions eaten consistently ONLY then should human-edible items come onto play as last resort dietary supplementing source .

Nutritional Value

Dogs have specific nutritional needs that are met through certain compounds found only in dog food. These include vitamins, protein and fiber (which is why they look to eat grass) Human foods might miss important nutritional value for our dogs which can affect their overall wellness if left unchecked.

Food Allergies

Certain human-foods can cause allergic reactions in pets such as onions, garlic or grapes. Always research before providing human-based scraps to ensure you aren’t accidentally poisoning your pet. Signs of allergy reaction range from vomiting green stomach acids , diarrhoea up the walls (you heard me) & bottom scooching about on the carpet (leading us nicely onto this next point);

Health Complications

If a dog eats something it doesn’t agree with an adverse reaction could happen leading potential expensive vet bill for yourself ! Just like humans pet’s bodies function with different requirements than own species would – consuming high salt oil based foods over time may lead blood pressure issues or pancreatitis developing long run.

Best Foods To Share With Dogs

Now that we’ve covered what not to give ,, let’s move on to sharing some items that ARE safe and meet our dogs’ dietary needs!

Here are some common household items great for our furry family members:

  • Oranges
  • Small segments free from peel/orange skin
  • Rice/Cooked Pasta
  • Plain white rice,pasta shells/macaronis(no sauces e.g Worcestershire Sauce)
  • Carrots
  • Fresh clean cut pieces/diced up snacks
  • Cooked Eggs
    • raw vs cooked differences explained later!

Raw Vs Cooked

As tempting as it may seem forewarning whilst Rocky Balboa training montage scenes play round our heads ; feeding raw eggs often contain salmonella bacteria causing issues necessary hygiene levels must be kept when preparing any eggs! Seeing Eye-to-eye discussion amongst professionals hasn’t quite agreed upon whether any benefits exist by feeding them raw.

Cooked Eggs

Cooking eggs removes potential salmonella or any other harmful bacteria which assists in safeguarding your furbaby’s belly. They taste just as good cooked anyway, right?

Can Dogs Eat Eggshells too?

Yes! Crush ’em up and sprinkle atop their food. A great source for nutrients such as calcium to be included within meal time hassle free..

Don’t forget somewhere between 1/3 – half of dogs experience egg allergies so pay attention on whether they develop any new symptoms after ingestion.

Final Food Tips

To set yourself and doggo up for success – create a separate space where bowls sit away from people eating. This way pets won’t try grab an arm when our attention is focused elsewhere or worse still; pretend they’re Tarzan & swing across the kitchen table toppling pies , chips ,and hot sauce everywhere!

Just like us, dogs are what they eat — make sure you’re providing them healthy dietary needs with portion control along with the occasional splurging bites we all deserve every now & again!

In conclusion, there are risks associated with feeding human food to dogs but by following simple guidelines owners can treat their furry family members safely while ensuring the best possible nutrition based diet at same time . After all some indulgences may cause surprise health benefits for both pet and owner 😉

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