Giving Your Dog a Treat? Here Are a Few Suggestions

Man’s best friend tends to linger when they’re around their favorite person, especially if there’s a possibility that the human in the kitchen might drop some food they can steal. Dogs can be sneaky animals, darting in and grabbing accidentally discarded morsels, then fleeing with the spoils. In many cases, this is more annoying than concerning, but there are items that animals just shouldn’t have. 

5 Human Foods to Keep Away From Your Dog

• Cinnamon: The oils in cinnamon can have several adverse effects on a dog. It can be mildly irritating, causing them to cough, if inhaled, but if can also be much more serious- dropping their blood sugar or even causing problems with the dog’s liver.
• Garlic: although humans can eat garlic and other members of the Allium family, it can cause the red blood cells to burst in a dog’s body; it can also cause the stomach and intestines to become inflamed.
• Avocado: this one’s a no-no because of a compound called persin. If dogs eat the fruit, it can cause upset stomach; the pit can cause obstructions. 
• Almonds: these high-fat nuts may taste good, and your dog may like them, but eating these can cause stomach discomfort, even pancreatitis. 
• Grapes and raisins: The exact compound that causes the exact problem isn’t known at the moment, but grape or raisin poisoning can lead to vomiting, dehydration, loss of appetite, and trouble passing urine. It can also lead to kidney failure.

On the flip side, there are also human foods that are very good for dogs and can help to improve their health. 

5 Human Foods Dogs Can Eat

• Pumpkin: Pumpkin is full of fiber, and that makes it a great option when you’re trying to combat upset tummy or diarrhea. 
• Plain white rice: This rather bland food can be good for your dog. High quality rice has antioxidants that your pet will benefit from. When dealing with upset stomach, it could help your pooch to feel better. 
• Green Beans: these beans offer several vitamins and fiber in a single serving, and many dogs love them. They can even help a dog lose a little weight, heal from injury or surgery, and protect their eyesight, thanks to the vitamins A, C, K, and magnesium.
• Apple slices: aside from the seeds, apples are a healthy and safe treat for man’s best friend. Like his human counterpart, a dog benefits from the calcium, vitamin C, and fiber in the flesh of the fruit. 
• Shrimp: when cooked, peeled and deveined, a few shrimp here or there is good for a dog. They can benefit from the vitamin B-12, and phosphorus in the meat. 

This list is by no means extensive, so we believe it is best to consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog eating things other than their own dog food.

If you’re looking for some help with your pet this spring and summer, our dog walkers would love to spend some time with your pooch. Visit our services page to learn just how Raleigh Pet Sitters can help you and entertain your pet!