Table Foods for Dogs

Tired of feeding your dog that dull brown kibble every day, or think that the dog might be bored with it? Feeding your dog human foods might add a little variety to its diet, but you need to be sure you're providing adequate nutrition and avoiding foods that can make your dog sick.

  1. Feeding Dogs Human Foods

    • Use caution when deciding to feed your dog table food. There are many things that humans eat that are unhealthy or poisonous to dogs, such as chocolate and onions, and you might inadvertently feed one of these to your dog. Many dogs are allergic to wheat, so most human breads are also off-limits. However, some dog owners still want to feed their dogs human food, either to avoid possible contaminants in commercial dog food or simply because they believe they can provide a more nutritious diet. It's possible to do so with a little information and planning.

    Nutrition for Your Dog

    • Commercial dog foods are designed to provide all the nutrition a dog needs. If you're feeding your dogs table food, it is certainly possible to provide your dogs all those same nutrients, but it requires careful attention. Dogs generally tend to select high-protein foods and also need some fats in their diets. They can eat a vegetarian diet if it includes enough protein sources and ample vitamin D. Carbohydrates, the source of energy for humans and dogs, are also necessary and can come from grains (other than wheat), legumes, vegetables and fruit. Dogs must also have sources of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and sodium.

    Easy-to-Prepare Foods

    • Some foods that are easy to fix for dogs that are also nutritious include cooked lean ground beef, cooked boneless chicken pieces, sautéed tofu, brown rice, quick oats, mashed beans, boiled vegetables and small pieces of bananas or apples. All meat must be cooked, all foods should be warm or room temperature and foods should be cut into small sizes to prevent choking. Never feed your dog chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes or raisins, nutmeg, raw fish or raw eggs; all of these can cause problems ranging from an upset stomach to death. (See Resources for a longer list of foods to be fed with caution.)

    Recipes for Homemade Dog Food

    • You can also experiment with the many recipes available for homemade dog foods and treats. Some recipes look good enough for humans, such as the Pizza with Carrots or the Blueberry and White Chocolate Mini Cupcakes (see Resources). Keep in mind that your dog's stomach does not adapt to a wide variety of foods as easily as yours, and you need to keep an eye on your dog's bathroom habits after trying a new food. Though commercial foods usually ensure regularity for dogs' bowel movements, more exotic options may cause some stomach issues for your dog.