The Healthiest People Foods for Dogs!

Packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and gut-friendly bacteria, these are human foods you can feel good about sharing with your dog!

Last Updated:December 3, 2020

*Remember, all treats should make up no more than 10 percent of your dog's daily diet.

Winner winner, chicken dinner!

Chicken (unless your dog has a food allergy) is always a win. If sharing, choose pieces with no visible fat (fatty foods can cause pancreatitis) and skip salt and seasonings. Chicken is an excellent, balanced source of amino acids, the building blocks of muscle.

Blueberries are an antioxidant-rich superfood—the highest of any fruit. These little powerhouses prevent and repair cell damage in humans and dogs alike. Dogs love the sweet-tart flavour and low sugar, making them a treat that slows aging and boosts immunity!

Apples are a super-healthy treat, with calcium, vitamin K, vitamin C, and soluble fiber. Dogs can eat green or red apples and the skin. Avoid lots of cores (seeds and stems). Apple seeds have cyanogenic glycosides that cause upset in large amounts.

Oatmeal is high in fiber and loaded with nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's especially good for coat and skin thanks to vitamin B and linoleic acid.

Its soluble fiber regulates blood glucose and bowel movements, helpful for older dogs—just don't overfeed, as excess fiber upsets stomachs. For wheat/grain sensitivities, it's a great alternative carb.

Make sure oatmeal is unflavoured and unsweetened. Some flavoured kinds contain xylitol, toxic to dogs. Additions like raisins and grapes are also toxic. Dogs struggle with lactose, so skip the milk. Old-fashioned oatmeal is better than instant—less processed, more nutrition.

» General feeding guideline

One tablespoon of cooked oatmeal per 20 pounds of weight, as a treat once or twice a week.

Pumpkin is a wonderful addition. Its slightly sweet taste is a favourite, it adds bulk and roughage, and best of all it settles an upset G.I. tract after dietary indiscretion. Canned pumpkin is recommended by holistic vets for upset stomachs. Low glycemic, it absorbs slowly, soothing tummy woes. Pumpkin also helps overweight dogs lose pounds by satiating while low calorie.

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Bright Idea! Stuff your dog's Kong with cooked pumpkin (baked, boiled or canned puréed, not pie filler with spices/sugar). Or go gourmet: mix pumpkin with ripe banana (perfect for over-ripe ones!), a spoon of plain unsweetened yogurt, and/or peanut butter (natural, unsweetened—always check no xylitol). Spoon into a Kong or stuffable toy. Freeze first for a cool summer treat!

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Sweet potatoes make an excellent, simple, natural treat. They're a source of dietary fibre and contain vitamin B6, vitamin C, beta carotene, and manganese. DIY TREAT IDEA: Slice and dehydrate sweet potatoes in a low oven for a chewy treat.

Salmon (or salmon oil) is a great source of omega-3s for dogs, supporting immunity and improving skin and coat. Some studies show omega-3s may help dogs with allergies. Only give cooked salmon—raw can carry a parasite that sickens dogs.

Kefir is a fermented milk drink like a liquid yogurt but with even more beneficial bacteria. A great probiotic, kefir has 30 strains of good bacteria and yeast, including several not common in yogurt. It's also rich in complex B vitamins. For dogs with yeast infections, kefir's antibiotic and antifungal properties help fight pathogenic yeasts.

For dogs with G.I. issues or loose bowels, kefir restores digestive health and helps after antibiotics. Some studies show kefir fends off salmonella, E. Coli, and kills H. Pylori.

» Start slow and work up to this daily minimum dosage:

Small sized dogs: 1 tsp – 1 Tbsp

Medium sized dogs: 1 – 2 Tbsp

Large dogs: 2 – 3 Tbsp

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As always, check with your veterinarian before major diet changes, especially on medications. Upsetting vitamin and mineral balance can harm health, and some meds interact badly with nutrients. Most owners want the best diet for their dogs. Good nutrition plus a health program may extend life by up to 15 percent. These suggestions aren't to replace your dog's normal balanced diet, but ideas for alternative treats or variety.

Check out more people foods for dogs here!