Can I give leftovers to my dog?
Nowadays and for many decades, dogs have acted as true family members in the home. That's why at mealtime, these companions often take their place around the table. So it's only natural that we want to share our food with them, in order to please them and avoid waste.
But, is that really a good idea?
Leftovers: a diet unsuited to dogs' needs
It is essential to know that human food is not the same as dog food. Indeed, dogs have specific needs, which must be respected to ensure their good health. It is therefore better to opt for products inspired by the natural diet of these animals.
In addition, some dogs may have different needs depending on their size, breed, age or health problems. As you can see, since table scraps are made of all sorts of products, they cannot meet the specific needs of your canine companion.
While you’re cooking, suddenly, your dog looks at you. You want to give them a little treat but wonder if they can eat the food you are holding in your hand.
With our vet-approved magnet, you’ll know the answer at a glance! Plus, you can quickly scan our QR code to access the full article with all the explanations.
In addition, you should be aware that certain foods can significantly affect a dog's health.
Beware of harmful foods
Many foods that are not compatible with a dog's natural diet can cause side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea and digestive problems. At the same time, other foods frequently found in the human diet can be extremely harmful or even dangerous.
Here is the list of foods to be banned from your dog's diet, even in small quantities and even if your dog asks you for some:
- chocolate,
- salted meats,
- cooked bones,
- raw fish,
- onions, garlic and shallots,
- grapes,
- avocado,
- ham and sausage,
- mussels,
- leeks,
- chives,
- beet,
- surimi,
- rhubarb.
As you can see, it's best not to give your dog table scraps, as many dishes contain at least one of these foods.
A bad habit to correct from the start
Very often, it is the dog that claims the leftovers from his owner during the meal. We know how difficult it can be to resist our cute companion.
But it's important to learn to refuse these requests and to establish good habits as soon as the dog is adopted, whether a puppy or an adult. By educating your companion not to turn around the table during meals, you'll ensure his health, your peace of mind and that of your guests.
The best practice remains to give him only the food that is intended for him, namely his kibble, his wet food and his treats.
As a web editor for several years, writing about animals and especially dogs is a real pleasure for me. I deeply love them and I am always eager to discover more about them. It is therefore a pleasure for me to share my knowledge and precious advice with you through articles on DogsPlanet.com.
