When deciding what to feed your pet, it might be tricky to know what is safe. There are specific foods that if eaten too much of, can be toxic to your pup. But, there are also foods that are perfectly healthy in moderation. An all-natural, protein-filled diet is optimal for your dog’s health and well-being.
Let’s begin with a handful of the DON’Ts. There are certain foods that are off limits to all dogs. These foods can become fatal, if not handled properly.
- Many pet parents have heard about the danger of giving chocolate to their pup, but do you know the reason behind this hazard? Chocolate, coffee, and caffeine contain a substance found in cacao seeds called methylxanthines. When eaten, they may cause vomiting, seizures, abnormal heart beat, and possible death in dogs.
- Salty foods can also be deadly to your pups. After consuming a high level of salt, a dog may experience tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, high body temperatures, and seizures.
- Macadamia nuts are one of the most deadly foods to a dog. They can cause increased body temperature, inability to walk, tremors, and vomiting.
- Alcohol, raw bread dough, and rotten apples contain ethanol, which can cause vomiting, excessive panting, disorientation, muscle tremors and seizures. If ingested, dogs should be monitored by a vet to ensure there are no signs of organ failure or death. Raw bread dough can also cause stomach expansion and difficulty breathing.
This is only a small list of food items that can cause distress to dogs, here is a full list of foods to avoid feeding your dog.
In addition to avoiding harmful foods for your dog, it is important to ensure that you are feeding your four-legged friend the food and nutrients he needs to thrive.
Not all “human food” is dangerous. There are many foods that are healthy for dogs to consume, as long as they meet certain conditions.
- Cooked eggs are a wonderful source of protein and can ease a pooch’s upset stomach. Eggs are also a great source of vitamin A, vitamin B12, iron, and fatty acids when fed in moderation. Raw egg whites can cause biotin deficiency, so it is important that you feed your pup eggs that are fully cooked.
- Cheese is a great treat to give your pup on occasion. Cheese is filled with vitamin A and fatty acids that are vital to a dog’s diet. Due to the high fat content, overfeeding can cause weight gain. While lactose intolerance is rare in dogs, it is recommended to first test their stomach with a very small amount.
- Peanut butter is a yummy treat that is packed with good fats and proteins for your dog. It is healthiest to feed dogs unsalted or homemade peanut butter to avoid added sugar or sodium. Because peanut butter is high in fat, this should only be given in small amounts as a treat to avoid obesity and pancreatitis. Also, ensure the peanut butter you are feeding your dog does not contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that is dangerous for dogs.
- Chicken, turkey, fish, and lean ground beef are perfectly safe to feed your dog. Dogs are historically meat-eaters and love all types of protein. It is best to find your pet 100% natural meats to avoid antibiotics and added hormones.
Jones Natural Chews provides a selection of 100% natural, nutrient rich treats. With 12 proteins to choose from, we offer something to suit every pup. Jones Natural Chews aims to provide your pet a healthy and safe way to snack.
