When the begging starts, it's hard to resist giving your pooch a bite from your dinner plate. But, do you know that table food for dogs can be harmful?
The question isn't so much can your dog eat scraps, but rather, is it good for your pup to do so? Here are a number of reasons why feeding your dog from your plate is a bad idea.
A dog's digestive system is different from a human's. Typical human food is much too rich and fatty for a dog to properly digest; eating it can lead to vomiting, diarrhea and even more severe conditions like pancreatitis. Many human foods also contain an unhealthy amount of sodium for dogs.
Human food often contains ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Chocolate, raisins, grapes, macadamia nuts, almonds, onions and garlic are all dangerous for dogs to eat. If you don't know exactly what's in the restaurant leftovers you brought home, you could unknowingly hurt your begging pooch by feeding them a spoonful. Many processed foods also contain artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, which are extremely harmful to pets.
Typically, dogs who are fed table scraps also eat regular daily meals. While you might think that a bite or two here and there won't cause your dog to gain weight, you might be surprised by how little it takes. To a 20-pound dog, a single ounce of cheddar cheese is the caloric equivalent of one and a half hamburgers for a person. Small bites can quickly add up and lead to weight gain that can lead to a whole host of health problems, like arthritis, diabetes and heart disease. Your dog should never consume more than10% of their daily caloric intake from treats or other human foods.
Another problem with table food for dogs is that it reinforces begging behavior. And while you might find it cute, dinner guests may not appreciate your dog hovering over their plates. Your dog might also decide that, since they're fed from the table, it's fine to take a bite (or more) of food sitting on the table or kitchen counter. Some dogs may even start refusing to eat their own food when they fill up on human food.
The best way to treat your dog is by giving them healthy, high-quality dog treats and factoring them into their daily calorie requirements. That doesn't mean that the foods you eat are totally off-limits to your dog, however. In fact, many human foods are fine for dogs to eat in moderation. Here are some guidelines for giving human food to your dog:
Dogs aren't good at regulating the amount of food that they eat. Many dogs will continue eating until they make themselves sick, so it is important that you oversee their meals and calories. Feeding a complete and balanced dog food optimal for their lifestage, size and activity level ensures that they are getting the necessary nutrients they need to be healthy. Despite those big puppy eyes, feeding the right dog food in the right amounts is more than enough to keep them happy and energetic.
So, can dogs eat table food? Dogs will eat — and enjoy — a number of foods; but just because they'll eat it doesn't mean it's good for them. As an informed pet parent, you can help your dog stay healthy by restricting what you allow your pup to eat. While it might be hard to say no to those big, pleading eyes, remember that it's for their own good: A healthy dog is a happy dog.
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
Learn about Hill's puppy food and the nutritional benefit & high quality ingredients that it contains for your pup.
Large and giant breed puppies have different nutritional needs than other dogs. Learn how to provide the special care they need to grow up big and strong.
Understand the role that Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids play in your dog's overall health, and how you can ensure they are getting enough.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
