Let’s answer a question we get regularly: What is safe for my dog to eat?


Making The Right Choice

Probably at the top of your dog’s list of tasty preferences (and what you are likely to have in stock at your house) is….wait for it…peanut butter! Yes, PB is quite possibly the most wonderful snack because it’s not only super delicious and highly nutritious, but your dog looks adorable when trying to chew it. Plus, you can share it with your dog! This is a top-notch human food provided your pup is not allergic.

Sadly, and for confounding reasons, many brands are now manufacturing different blended peanut butters, and adding the unnecessary artificial sweetener Xylitol into the mix. The kind we like – and the healthiest one for your dog – has just one ingredient: peanuts. Please read the label carefully, and never allow your dog to taste anything made with Xylitol to avoid life-threatening health problems resulting in emergency care.

Other Dangers

If the threat of weakness, collapse, seizures, and vomiting related to Xylitol consumption isn’t frightening enough, we advise dog owners to never allow a dog’s access to these dangerous human foods:

  • Chocolate
  • Alcohol
  • Grapes or raisins
  • Avocado
  • Onion

When wondering “what is safe for my dog”, you’ll undoubtedly cross these off your list, as ingestion can cause kidney failure, red blood cell damage, respiratory distress, and even death. Please refer to the Pet Poison Helpline for more information, and call us if you need help.

What Other Treats Are Safe For My Dog?

When browsing in your own pantry or fridge for a treat fit for Fido, we recommend that you do not add any extra sugar, salt, or other seasoning for your dog’s sensitive palate. Your dog will probably like these unsweetened, healthy snacks:

  • Canned or raw pumpkin
  • Cooked, deboned salmon
  • Lightly steamed or raw broccoli florets
  • Plain yogurt
  • Cooked, plain oatmeal
  • Cooked, unseasoned chicken
  • Raw or lightly steamed carrots
  • Cooked eggs

The Yummies

In light of recent media coverage, you may end up deliberating “what is safe for my dog”, and we applaud your ongoing commitment to your dog’s wellbeing. Please remember we can help you handle your pet’s nutrition, and hope you’ll consult us before substituting snack calories from your dog’s regular meal portions. Let us know if you have any questions or concerns, and let the good snacks roll!