Top 10 Dog Foods Vets Approve—and Avoid

The next time you consider giving your dog human food, read this instead.

Reviewed by Registered Dietitian Emily Lachtrupp, M.S. Reviewed by Registered Dietitian Emily Lachtrupp, M.S.

If you're a dog enthusiast, you likely aim to provide your furry friend with the most extended and healthiest existence possible. Feeding them the identical dry food daily might seem monotonous for anyone alive. Nonetheless, sorting through social media tips, advertising propaganda, and myriad declarations from self-proclaimed specialists could prove difficult. Thus, what truly constitutes proper canine nourishment?

We spoke with veterinarian Brian Collins, D.V.M. At the Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center, "Providing your dogs with fresh meals adds diversity to their routine and benefits both their psychological health and digestive system," according to Collins.

Related: The 6 Most Nutritious Components to Seek in Pet Food

Before exploring particular edibles, there are some basic rules that canine caregivers ought to keep in mind. Be cautious about added ingredients (particularly xylitol) and opt for unprocessed whole foods instead. Take into account factors such as your dog’s health history, current medications they might be on, their body size, and whether eating poses difficulties; if so, make sure the food is chopped up finely. Although preparing meals at home for dogs is gaining traction, doing so really needs oversight from an animal nutrition specialist. "It involves a precise balance to guarantee that your pets receive adequate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, along with essential elements like calcium and various vitamins," explained Collins.

Explore alternative methods for offering nutritional enhancement using slow-feed puzzle bowls or toys designed to let you serve your dog wholesome treats between mealtimes, such as homemade frozen pup-sicles. As always, remember to seek advice from your nearest veterinarian whenever you're uncertain!

These are the top 10 finest and poorest food items for canines as per a veterinary professional.

5 Top Dog-Friendly Foods

1. Apples

Apples serve as an excellent source of vitamins C and A, along with providing potassium, antioxidants, and fiber, all beneficial for dogs. Remember to chop the apple into small portions similar to how you'd prepare them for humans, and make certain not to let your dog consume any seeds since they may pose toxicity risks and could lead to obstructions in the digestive system.

2. Blueberries

Blueberries Are rich in Vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants, and phytochemicals, which make them a nutritious option both for people and their four-legged companions. "Frozen berries can serve as an excellent way to refresh your pet," noted Collins. Maintain a supply of organic frozen blueberries in your freezer for scorching days to use either as a delightful snack or to add to meals.

3. Peanut Butter

Peanuts Are a fantastic source of protein, and peanut butter works well for hiding medications, during baths, and can be placed inside enrichment toys. Make certain that your peanut butter has minimal ingredients and is devoid of additives such as palm oil, sugar, and salt. Numerous health food stores often provide machines that produce peanut butter using only raw, unsalted peanuts.

4. Cucumber

Leafy vegetables with high water content such as cucumbers, green beans, and zucchini are highly recommended, particularly for canines with large appetites or those aiming to attain a healthier physique, says Collins. Specifically, cucumbers are low-calorie options rich in vitamins B and C, vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium. Always remember to trim the edges and slice the cucumber into manageable portions to prevent choking hazards. Additionally, some veterinarians suggest removing the skin before serving.

5. Meat

Low-fat meat cooked either with water or in its natural juices, devoid of excessive seasonings or oils, makes for an excellent option. According to Collins, one should exercise care regarding giving dogs bones because they might splinter and damage a dog’s teeth, become lodged in the back of their throat, or lead to blockages in the digestive system. Meat like chicken or turkey, stripped of skin and meticulously removed from the bone, generally proves to be a safer bet.

5 Unhealthiest Foods for Canines

1. Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nut toxicosis manifests as symptoms such as vomiting, muscle weakness, elevated body temperature, and reduced activity in the brain. "During festive seasons, we encounter numerous cases where dogs inadvertently consume macadamia nuts," Collins stated. When cooking with nuts or when your pet has a tendency to snatch food from plates or tables, exercise additional caution.

2. Grapes and Raisins

Consuming even a single grape may lead to irreversible kidney damage in dogs, as stated by Collins. Should your canine consume grapes, raisins, or items made with these components such as raisin bread, reach out to your veterinarian or an animal clinic right away since they possess medications that induce vomiting which prevent toxin absorption. As a final option, you might consider using hydrogen peroxide; however, always consult with a professional beforehand.

3. Chocolate

Dark chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which are substances that impact a dog's central nervous system and heart; they also function as diuretics leading to potential dehydration. Generally, the more intense the darkness of the chocolate (indicating higher cocoa content), the greater the risk. The deadlier the dosage might become. This indicates that all items with caffeine, such as coffee, ought to be abstained from.

4. Alliums

Potatoes like onions, garlic, leeks, and chives belong to the Allium plant family, known for containing compounds such as N-propyl disulfides and thiosulfates, substances capable of harming your dog’s red blood cells. Exercise caution during meal preparation since even a small amount from these ingredients could be detrimental, particularly to smaller dogs. Although you might not directly feed these vegetables to your pets, they frequently appear concealed within various sauces and seasonings used in preparing meats and other dishes.

5. Chewing Gum

Any product with xylitol poses significant danger to dogs. A tiny quantity of this substance can drop a dog's blood glucose to perilous lows, causing issues like nausea, poor coordination, shivers, and potential hepatic damage. "My house never stocks chewing gum," states Collins, owner of three pups. Symptoms might not appear right away, yet the canine could still require observation throughout the night by an animal doctor. Xylitol often lurks as an inconspicuous ingredient in certain peanut spreads and sweets labeled as low-calorie, such as reduced-fat frozen treats and pastries.

The Bottom Line

Our affection for our four-legged friends is boundless, and perhaps this article has provided you with something to ponder over (intended as humor). Every devoted pet owner aims to ensure their dog enjoys the finest life possible during their time here. Fortunately, achieving this doesn’t require going to great lengths or breaking the bank. Some straightforward natural foods can be easily added to your shopping list. Moreover, incorporating additional fresh produce will not only enhance our own well-being but also brighten the days of both loved ones and those loyal pups whose presence enriches ours immensely.

Related: 4 WaysPets Benefit Your Cardiovascular Health, Say Cardiologists

Resources: Should your canine consume a poisonous substance and your veterinarian be unreachable, consider contacting one of these round-the-clock emergency hotlines: Pet Poison Helpline : 855-764-7661 // ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center : 888-426-4435

Read the initial article on Eating Well .