Let’s face it – we’re all guilty of sneaking our furry friends a treat that is not made for them every now and then (or more frequently than we’d like to admit). But do you really know what you’re feeding your precious pup? Many foods that we eat daily have health benefits for your pup; however, there a bunch of hidden dangers lurking in some human foods that are not so good for your dog’s health. Read below to discover which foods are perfect for a picnic with your pup – and which you should leave behind.

Best Foods

Carrots

Carrots are a great treat to feed your dog because not only are they healthy in that they are low in calories, but they are also high in vitamin A and beta-carotene. This means that they will help your pup’s teeth, as well as their eyesight.

Apples

The flesh of an apple can help improve your pup’s smelly breath. However, when feeding him apple slices, be sure to remove the seeds and core, as they are not only a choking hazard, but also contain cyanide, which can cause some very serious side effects.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is chock-full of vitamin A. Feed your pup this fall fruit year-round to help with his eyesight as well as keep his GI tract functioning properly.

Salmon

Salmon contains Omega-3 fatty acids – otherwise known as “the good kind of fat.” This healthy fat will help keep your dog’s coat looking healthy and shiny (oh, and it will strengthen your hair and nails, too – bonus!).

Rice

Rice is a great meal for any pup with an upset stomach. This is because it is an easily digestible source of nutrition and a good source of energy. Feed your pup brown rice if you want a higher protein and lower fat content, or white rice if you want something more easily digestible.

Worst Foods

Milk/Dairy Products

The sugars found in milk are not able to be broken down in your dog’s stomach. This can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea, so avoid feeding your dog products that contain dairy to avoid the potential onset of bacterial diseases.

Avocado

Avocado contains a fungicidal toxin known as persin, which is dangerous to dogs when consumed in large quantities. It can lead to difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pains, and other allergic reactions such as fluid build-up in your dog’s chest. Avocado pits are also dangerous to dogs, as they can be easily swallowed and can lead to blockage of the intestines.

Onions/Garlic

Onions and garlic are part of the same family, and, when consumed, both are very toxic to your dog. These two flavorful foods contain toxins that can damage red blood cells in your pup, leading to body weakness and lethargy. In severe cases, your dog may require a blood transfusion.

Chocolate

Although this one is a popular one that most people know, it is very important to list because it can kill your pup. Chocolate has both caffeine and theobromine, two substances that are very toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate contains more of these substances than milk chocolate, and milk chocolate more than white chocolate. If a dog consumes chocolate, especially in large amounts, it can cause vomiting, dehydration, stomach pain, irregular heartbeat, fever, seizures, and even death.

Grapes/Raisins

Like with onions and garlic, these two foods are members of the same family and can both cause some heartbreaking effects if consumed by dogs. Vomiting and diarrhea may occur, as well as dehydration and lethargy. But worst of all is kidney failure, which can result in death in as little as three to four days.

Although it is natural to want to share tasty treats with your four-legged friend, the best way to avoid any issues if you’re unsure of potential threats is to avoid feeding your dog “people” food all together. If you really can’t resist, just make sure you’re prepared with the facts on food dangers and you’ll be good to go!