18 Healthiest Foods You Need to Give Your Dog & What to Avoid

Learn the type of foods you need to give your dogs and what to avoid. Check out the article we found over at The Science Of Eating.

Here are a few “dog-approved” people foods that are actually are perfectly safe … and even healthy!

Coconut & Coconut Oil

Coconut is made up of a beneficial fatty acid chain called Lauric acid, and when dogs and humans synthesize Lauric acid it produces a compound called monoglyceride monolaurin. This substance helps fight and destroy viruses and various pathogenic bacteria, thus protecting your pets from infection and boosting their immune systems. Additionally,  coconut contains albumin, which is a water-soluble protein found in many animal tissues and liquids.

Many diseases and ailments, like yeast infections, smelly coats, hot spots, cuts that have been infected, and even cracked paws, can all be cured with just a jar of “virgin coconut oil.” When all forms of diet remedies have failed, then it is time to try out this miracle natural medicine for your dog. Virgin coconut oil means that it is unrefined, and it can be used for both dogs and humans. Coconut Oil can help reduce cancer risks. It also improves the digestion of your dog and becomes medicine for most digestive upsets.

Thyroid function is also kept normal with coconut oil. It can give your dog a smooth glossy coat, as well as healthy, supple skin. Yeast and fungal infections are also treated and prevented through the use of coconut oil. Arthritis and similar pains can also be minimized or treated. Coconut & coconut oil can also balance your dog’s metabolism, and keep weight under control. Coconut & its oil are also something that your dog will most likely love to eat, and gobble up. Mix it with their food it can cure many picky eaters.

Lean Meat

Think chicken, beef, or pork with no visible fat and no added sauces or seasonings can be a great training treat or can add a bit of good-quality extra protein to your dog’s diet. Lean meat is an excellent, balanced source of amino acids, the building blocks of muscle in your dog’s body. Meat is also a great source of B vitamins (Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic acid, Pyridoxine, and Cobalamine). These vitamins are involved in energy metabolism in the body. Meat also makes a good meal replacement if you’re in a pinch and out of dog food.

Liver

Used in moderation, this meat is also a good choice and available freeze-dried in most pet stores It makes a great training treat, that you can also buy fresh in the grocery store to feed at home. Fresh liver can be cooked and then baked to make your own liver treats. Liver is an excellent source of B vitamins, Vitamin A, and Vitamin K. It is also a great source of iron. Too much liver may be toxic to dogs because of its high vitamin A content, so it is best to limit the amount of liver fed to your dog to not more than 1 g of fresh liver/Kg body weight per day.

Salmon & Tuna 

These are good sources of omega 3 fatty acids, which are responsible for keeping your dog’s coat healthy and shiny, as well as supporting your dog’s immune system. Feed your dog cooked salmon, add salmon oil to food, or slip them some of your unwanted fish skins. Tuna may be a classic cat snack. But despite stereotypes, dogs can eat tuna too, and it’s healthy offering protein, vitamins on top of the omega-3 fatty acids.

Eggs

Scrambling up an egg for your pup is a great way to give their diet a protein boost. Eggs are also a source of easily digestible riboflavin and selenium, making them a healthy snack.

Cheese & Cottage Cheese

A great treat for a dog as long as they are not lactose intolerant, which a small percentage are. So if you’re unsure, make sure to monitor your dog’s reaction. Opt for low or reduced fat varieties and don’t overfeed, as many cheeses can be high in fat. Cottage cheese is typically a good choice because it is high in protein and calcium and it’s fairly bland, so it can be a good way to add some extra protein to your dog’s diet.

Greek Yogurt & Kefir

High in calcium and protein, but make sure to only choose yogurts that do not contain artificial sweeteners or added sugars. Yogurts with active bacteria can act as a probiotic and are good for your dog’s digestive system.

Oatmeal

This is a great source of soluble fiber, which can be especially beneficial for older dogs with bowel irregularity issues. It is also a great alternate grain for dogs allergic to wheat. Make sure to cook oatmeal before serving it to your dog.

Pasta 

Dogs can eat pasta, which is really nothing more than flour, water, and sometimes eggs. All of these ingredients are safe for dogs, so any variety of pasta should be fine but I lean toward whole grain pasta. Although it’s probably best to hold the commercial pasta sauce, as these are usually acidic, and contain a lot of sugar and salt, which can upset your dog’s tummy. Also, keep in mind that some dogs are allergic to wheat, so if that’s the case, leave pasta off the menu.

Rice/Brown Rice

This is good to use when your dog has an upset tummy and needs a bland meal. There are a variety of different types of rice. Brown rice is a little higher in protein & fiber and a little lower in fat when compared to white rice. White or instant rice is an easily digestible carbohydrate which makes it a good source of energy which is especially good when feeding an older dog.

Sweet Potatoes

are another source of dietary fiber 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.

Popcorn

This is best when it is air popped with no butter or salt. It makes a great low calorie treat, contains potassium as well as the bone-building minerals phosphorous, magnesium, and calcium. So snuggle up and share that popcorn with your furry friend next time you watch a movie.

Flax Seed (milled or oil)

This is a good source of omega-3 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 fiber. Flax oil is a more concentrated form of omega- 3 fatty acids without the fiber. Make sure that you store the oil or seeds in the fridge in an air tight dark container.

Baby Carrots

These are great for a dog’s teeth, they are low calories and high in fiber and beta carotene/vitamin A.

Pumpkin, Squash & Zucchini

Good source of fiber as well as beta-carotene/vitamin A. It can help keep the GI tract moving and can aid with digestive issues. Like pumpkin, squash can be added to bulk up his stool and is a good source of beta-carotene & vitamin A). Be sure to remove the seeds. Zucchini like other squashes makes for a delicious and healthy snack, providing potassium, folate and vitamin content make it healthy for you and your dog, and no part of this vegetables is toxic to canines.

Green Beans

Make a great treat for your dog since they are filling and low in calories. Select beans that have no added salt.

Peas

These can be added right to your dog’s food, frozen or thawed. Peas are a good source of the B vitamin Thiamin, phosphorous, and potassium.

Broccoli

This vitamin-rich vegetable can be a great occasional nutrition boost for dogs. However, it shouldn’t make up more than 10 percent of a dog’s diet as it could cause gastrointestinal irritation.

Check out what to avoid:

Image credit: www.mnn.com

Next Article: Common Foods That Can Kill Your Pet

Read full article: 31 Healthiest Foods For Your Dog (and the 13 you NEED to avoid!)