7 Healthy “People” Foods You Should Give Your Dog

What is a “people” food, anyway?

Well, we all know what “dog” food is, and it’s not something people should be eating. But people food? That’s a pretty wide assortment of stuff…at least some of it has to be good for dogs, right? It is! You know to never (ever) give your dog chocolate, avocados, or beer, of course, but which people foods should you be letting your pup enjoy? Here are seven healthy human foods you should never feel guilty giving your dog.

1. Squash

Does your dog like squash? She might! It’s got tons of Vitamin A, E, B6, and C, and even folate, which is hard to get enough of. Squash is also very filling with lots of fiber which can help keep a constipated pooch regular. Summer squash, fall squash…bring it on!

2. Peanut Butter

If you haven’t given your dog a KONG® toy stuffed with peanut butter, do you even dog? Peanut butter is chock full of protein which is great for keeping your dog full. It’s also got lots of healthy fats, niacin, and Vitamin E, too. Just be sure to avoid brands with lots of excess sugar or sodium, neither of which your dog needs. Also check to make sure the spread doesn’t contain Xylitol, a chemical sweetener which is actually quite toxic for dogs!

3. Carrots

Carrots may be more of a “rabbit” food than a “people” food but let’s be honest…we should probably all be eating more of them. Stuffed with beta carotene and Vitamin C, they’re an excellent low-cal supplement to your dog’s diet. Bonus: Chewing on raw carrots is really great for your dog’s teeth!

4. Salmon

If you have money to burn, you may want buy your dog her very own salmon steak every night! We’re kidding, but it is a good idea to give your dog the salmon skin off your own plate, or even to keep a pack of frozen salmon in the freezer. The pink stuff is full of Omega-3 healthy fats and protein, and your dog doesn’t really care if it’s wild caught or farmed.

5. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a fiber-full breakfast for anyone, but it’s especially great for dogs with digestive issues. Steel-cut oatmeal (cooked in water, not milk) is an excellent source of grain for dogs, and they’re a perfect wheat alternative if your dog is allergic to wheat products. Just be sure to skip the cinnamon or scoop of jam you’d add to your own oatmeal bowl, okay?

6. Parsley

We’re not under any illusion that your dog is going to eat a bouquet of parsley directly from your hand, but if you can sneak a sprinkling of chopped up parsley on top of his dog food, all the better! Anything green has lots vitamins and minerals and best of all, parsley will help naturally freshen your dog’s breath. Win-win.

7. Eggs

Has your dog tried eggs? Eggs are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, riboflavin, and niacin, and they’re also super cheap. Dogs will usually eat them however they can get them, but scrambled is generally easiest (hold the butter!) Remember that egg shells actually contain a lot of protein and biotin, so if your dog will munch away on a boiled egg with the shell on? Go for it. Out of dog food? Don’t fret! You’ve probably got a fridge full of stuff your pet would be more than happy to eat. Just be sure to feed your dog like you would yourself: low in saturated fats, light on the added sugar, and always in moderation.