As a responsible and informed dog lover, you probably know
that too much “people food” can make your dog ill or overweight, but there are
some human foods that can be safely added to your dog’s meals in moderation to
give a nutritional boost to Queenie’s diet and add a bit of variety to her food
bowl. Just remember: any additions to your dog’s meals shouldn’t comprise more
than 25 percent of her weekly caloric requirement.
1. Yogurt is a good source
of available calcium and protein. When choosing yogurt, pick one that has live
active bacteria and no sugars or artificial sweeteners. The active bacteria may
act as probiotics. If your pooch is pudgy, make sure that you pick fat-free
yogurt but not one that contains fat substitutes (e.g., Simplesse or Olestra).
Frozen yogurt is a nice summer treat for dogs.
2. Flax seed (ground or
oil) is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fatty acids
that are good for skin and coat. Whole flax seeds are best if ground right
before feeding as this type of fat can go rancid quickly. Flax seed can also be
added to your dog’s diet as a source of fibre. Flax oil is a more concentrated
form of omega- 3 fatty acids without the fibre. Make sure that you store the
oil or seeds in the fridge in an air tight dark container.
3. Salmon is a fatty fish which is also a
good source of omega- 3 fatty acids. These fats support the immune system and
can be beneficial for skin and coat health. There has also been some indication
that they may benefit dogs with allergies. You can feed salmon or salmon oil.
If feeding salmon, make sure it’s cooked before serving, as raw salmon can
carry a parasite that can make your dog sick.
4. Pumpkin is a good source of fibre and
beta carotene (a source of vitamin A). Dogs need fibre in their diet. The
current trend is towards highly digestible diets that lower stool volume and
this is not necessarily a good thing. Keeping the GI tract moving helps keep
the cells lining the gut healthy.
5. Sweet potatoes are
another source of dietary fibre and contain vitamin B6, vitamin C, beta
carotene, and manganese. Sweet potatoes are great sliced and dehydrated as a
chewy treat for your dog. There are so many dog treats on the market that we
often overlook the simple, healthy, and reasonably priced treats available at
our grocery store.
6. Green beans are a good source of plant
fibre, vitamin K, vitamin C, and manganese. If your dog has a tendency to put
on weight, then replacing some of her regular food with green beans is a great
low calorie way to fill her up and help her maintain a healthy weight. Many
dogs enjoy green beans frozen.
7. Eggs are a great source of very
digestible protein, riboflavin, and selenium. For some dogs that are prone to
digestive upset, eggs can give them a little protein boost. Adding eggs to your
dog’s food is a healthy treat. Make sure to use cooked whole egg, as raw egg
whites can cause biotin deficiency. If you do a lot of training with your dog,
consider taking cooked eggs to your next class as training treats.
8. Brewer’s yeast is the yeast that’s left
over from making alcohol. Dogs seem to really enjoy the tangy taste of brewer’s
yeast. It’s full of B vitamins which are good for skin, coat, and carbohydrate
metabolism. Make sure you’re using brewer’s yeast (available at health food
stores), not baking yeast which will make your dog sick. Brewer’s yeast can
spice up your dog’s appetite. Just sprinkle a little on the food of a picky
eater and watch her dive into her food.
9. Apples are wonderful crunchy treats for
your dog. Apples with the skin on are full of plant chemicals (phytonutrients)
that are thought to be protective against some types of cancer in humans. They
are a source of vitamins A and C and fibre. Apple seeds, however, contain
cyanide so your dog should not be allowed to eat the core. Though the effects
of a few apple seeds will likely not harm your dog, the deleterious effects can
accumulate over time if allowed to eat apple seeds regularly.
10. Oatmeal is a good source of soluble
fibre. This can be beneficial for some older dogs that may have trouble
maintaining bowel regularity. Oatmeal is also an alternative source of grain
for dogs that are allergic to wheat. It can be fed in conjunction with
probiotics to enhance their function. Keep in mind oatmeal should always be fed
cooked and plain with no sugar or flavouring. As always, check with your
veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet, especially if
they are on any medications. Upsetting the vitamin and mineral balances in your
dog’s diet can have negative effects on your dog’s health and some medications
interact badly with some nutrients. The aim of most dog owners is to give their
dogs the best diet possible. Good nutrition coupled with a health care program
may result in extending your dog’s life by as much as 15 percent. The
suggestions above are not meant to replace your dog’s normal, balanced diet.
Rather, they are ideas for alternative treats or for adding a little variety to
your dog’s meals.
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