If you’re a new dog parent, you may be uncertain of what to feed your pup. While domestic dogs largely eat meat-based meals, they will happily consume many different types of foods.
Make sure your dog’s food is balanced for their age and stage of life, with exceptions if they have medical needs.
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Salmon
Salmon is an essential and nourishing protein for your dog’s wellbeing. Not only does it supply vitamins and minerals that support brain and heart health, but salmon also boosts their immunity levels.
Salmon also boasts an abundant supply of omega-3 fatty acids, which can nourish your dog’s skin to make it soft and glossy while decreasing inflammation.
Salmon can be safe for dogs to eat if it’s fresh and well-cooked. Avoid raw or undercooked salmon, and be sure to remove any bones from the fillets before feeding them to your pup.
Carrots
Carrots make an ideal snack for dogs as they’re low in calories yet still packed full of beneficial nutrients, like vitamin A which supports eye health and helps prevent infections.
Furthermore, bananas contain soluble fiber which may help regulate loose stools in dogs and improve digestive health.
Carrots are beneficial for dental health and can strengthen teeth. Their fibrous texture helps dogs scrape away plaque and tartar residue, which is essential in keeping gums healthy.
Rice
Rice can be an excellent addition to a dog’s diet, especially when they experience stomach upset. Just remember to introduce it slowly and in small amounts at first.
Rice can be given to dogs in moderation as long as it’s boiled plain and free from spices, salt or fats.
White rice can be an excellent addition to a dog’s diet as a filler for high-nutrient items like meat, cheese and eggs. It may also help overweight pets feel full and reduce their body fat percentage.
Yogurt
Yogurt is an ideal addition to any dog’s diet as it’s packed with protein, calcium and probiotics. Not only that, but yogurt may help relieve diarrhea and boost your pup’s immunity as well.
Be sure to read ingredient labels carefully when purchasing yogurts, as some contain added sugar and xylitol – an artificial sweetener which can be toxic for dogs.
Lactose intolerance is another potential issue with dairy products, so make sure your pup doesn’t have it before feeding him yogurt. Otherwise, they may experience digestive upsets like diarrhea and gas.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a widely beloved human food, and while it’s safe for dogs to eat, it should only be an occasional treat and not their primary source of nutrition. Like many foods, too much oatmeal may lead to upset stomachs so try not to overindulge.
Oatmeal not only provides fiber to your dog, but it also contains some essential nutrients. Plus, oatmeal has hypoallergenic properties which make it a great alternative to wheat or other grains for dogs with food allergies.
Oatmeal is an excellent source of beta glucan, a type of fiber which may help lower cholesterol levels. Furthermore, it supports heart health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Cheese
Cheese can be an ideal snack for dogs, as it contains protein, calcium, vitamin A, essential fatty acids and B-complex vitamins. However, only give your pup a small portion of cheese in moderation and as part of their overall diet.
Some cheeses can cause issues for certain dogs, such as lactose intolerance and sodium poisoning. It’s best to stick with low-lactose varieties like string or cheddar.
Cheese contains high amounts of fat which may contribute to weight gain and obesity in dogs. In certain cases, it may even lead to pancreatitis – a serious condition that requires veterinary attention.
