Feeding our dogs leftovers from meals may seem like a way to make them happy, but it is not recommended as a constant habit unless the food you are eating is healthy enough. That said, ensuring your food is as healthy as your dog’s should be is a daunting task. This means no more junk food, fast food and obviously no more foods high in sugar or substances that are toxic to dogs (think no more chocolate or things like onions). Dogs require a balanced diet that is specifically tailored to their nutritional needs. The food we consume often contains ingredients that are not toxic to dogs, but is also really not suitable for dogs, as it can interfere with their digestion. However, that is not the only concern.
Many of the foods we eat are sweet, salty, or fatty, which do not align with the dietary requirements of dogs and can cause an imbalance in their diet. Even seemingly harmless ingredients can turn out to be harmful and lead to poisoning. Additionally, feeding dogs leftovers can contribute to weight gain and obesity. Dogs should be provided with a healthy and balanced diet, one that is tasty and exciting without being (even in the slightest bit) dangerous to their health. Dogs are active, so eating should nourish and replenish their energy levels and provide essential vitamins, protein and other aspects like hydration.
Certain foods should be avoided altogether, as they can be even fatal for dogs. Examples include chocolate, cooked bones (that can cause internal injuries), salty foods, lactose (cow’s milk) products, raw potato, certain fruits and vegetables (such as green tomatoes, avocados, grapes, onions, shallots, garlic, and leeks), certain dried fruits and nuts (like macadamia nuts, candied fruit, and any other even natural sugary sweets that increase the risk of diabetes), and any foods containing xylitol (often found in gingerbread and peanut butter). Read the labels and be aware of what you are feeding your dog at all times.
In addition to health concerns, giving your dog leftovers at the table can lead to bad habits and behavioral problems. The dog will expect treats and become bored with regular meals. Allowing your dog to hang around the table can encourage begging and over time, they may become insistent and even attempt to steal food from plates or disrupt mealtimes. It is advisable to teach your dog that there is a designated time for their meals and discourage them from begging.
Healthy foods are equally beneficial for both humans and dogs. Fresh fruits and vegetables are highly recommended as treats for dogs due to their high water and fiber content. However, it is important to exercise caution when sharing large amounts of fresh fruit with dogs as this will lead to gastrointestinal issues. Overindulging in even acceptible dried fruit can result in severe diarrhea in dogs. Lean meat is another excellent treat option for dogs. Chicken, turkey, fish, and beef are all great sources of protein. High-quality protein sources that are free of visible fat contain approximately 3.5 kcal/gram of meat and this is okay for sharing. Small pieces of leftover meat without sauce are fine for your dog after dinner or even try adding it to their breakfast. It’s a great way to incorporate healthy foods into their diet.