A List of Foods That Are Good for Dogs

Good food for your dog is not limited to a choice between canned and dry. Add a little variety to your dog's diet with fresh whole foods such as meats and fish, fruits and vegetables, grains, dairy products and eggs. Fresh foods are high in vitamins and minerals.

  1. Meats

    • Organ meats such as tripe, kidney, liver and heart are very dense in nutrients. Liver is a good source of vitamin A for healthy eyes. Beef, pork, chicken, turkey and lamb are all excellent sources of protein. Fish such as mackerel, salmon and sardines are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E for healthy skin. A dog can eat either fresh baked fish or canned fish.

    Fruits and Vegetables

    • Strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are high in antioxidants and may help ease inflammation and boost immunity. Vegetables are excellent low-calorie sources of fiber. Broccoli contains antioxidants and carrots are high in vitamin A. Raw carrots, rutabagas and cauliflower are mildly abrasive and help to clean a dog's teeth. Other fruits and vegetables a dog may enjoy are bananas, papayas, mangoes, melon, peas, green beans and Brussels sprouts.

    Grains

    • Dogs can eat grains like white or brown rice, oats, barley, bulgur, quinoa and amaranth. However, grains should make up only a small percentage of a canine meal. Carbohydrates such as these can cause weight gain and may be a factor in the development of allergies, arthritis, ear infections and other ailments.

    Dairy Products and Eggs

    • Yogurt, kefir and cottage cheese contain calcium. Cottage cheese and eggs may tempt a dog with a poor appetite and can help underweight dog add some pounds. Not only are eggs themselves good for a dog, clean, dried, finely ground eggshells can be given as a calcium supplement. If a dog has problems tolerating cow's milk, goat milk is a good substitute.