It’s no secret that dogs are never satisfied with their own dog food — they want what we’re eating too. More often than not, we happily share some of our snacks and dinner scraps with our furry friends, but sharing isn’t always a good idea.

Some foods can make a dog sick, while others are especially toxic and could cause severe health issues. And then there are foods that are actually very healthy for canines!

Check out these 5 human foods your dog can enjoy and 5 human foods your dog should avoid eating.

5 Human Foods That Are Safe for Dogs to Eat

Salmon

While giving a cat some salmon makes perfect sense, not everyone knows that dogs can enjoy salmon as well. Salmon is a great source of protein, especially for dogs who have problems digesting other animal-based proteins like beef or chicken.

Additionally, salmon is an excellent source of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Omega-3 fatty acids help keep your dog’s coat healthy and shine, promote joint and brain health, and give the immune system a boost. Consider adding cooked salmon, cooked fish skins, or a salmon-flavored soft chew to your dog’s diet.

Peanuts / Peanut Butter

Some nuts are bad for dogs, but peanuts are not one of them. Peanuts are packed with protein, vitamin B-3, vitamin B-6, vitamin E, and healthy fats. A small snack of peanuts provides your dog with good fats and proteins. Just make sure to only feed your dog unsalted nuts, and only in moderation. 

If you’re thinking of giving your dog peanut butter, the safest option is homemade peanut butter. However, store bought options can be safe in moderation. Always check the label carefully. You’ll want to avoid brands that are high in sodium or contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that can be toxic to dogs.

Vegetables Such as Peas and Carrots

While many children may turn their nose up at the idea of eating some vegetables, dogs will likely happily gobble them up. Peas and carrots are especially healthy for dogs. Carrots make a great low-calorie snack and are high in fiber and vitamin A. Peas can be mixed with dog food and deliver lots of vitamins, minerals, and protein.

Other vegetables, such as broccoli and brussels sprouts are also good for your dog, but only in moderation, as too much could cause gas. Be sure to consult your veterinarian before adding any new vegetables to a dog's diet.

Eggs

As long as they are fully cooked, eggs are a great source of protein for dogs and can help dogs who suffer from an upset stomach. Eggs are also a good source of linoleic acid and fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A, which support skin and coat health.

Yogurt

Not all dogs can easily digest dairy products, but if yours does, yogurt makes a great treat for dogs. The probiotics in yogurt can help strengthen a dogs digestive system. Just be sure to feed your dog only plain yogurt without extra sugar or artificial sweeteners, like xylitol.

Probiotics for dogs also help to maintain a healthy GI tract, support regularity, and minimize allergy symptoms. If your dog isn’t interested in yogurt or doesn’t digest dairy well, Probiotic supplements for dogs are a great alternative. They can make sure your dog is getting the right blend of probiotics and help to alleviate dog diarrhea, as well as aid in recovery from antibiotics. 

Note: All of the above foods should only be fed to your dog in moderation, and should be absent of seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic, and onion. Some of these can be toxic to dogs and cause kidney failure or other health issues.

5 Human Foods That Dogs Should Not Eat

Almonds

Unlike peanuts, almonds are not healthy for dogs, and salted almonds can cause serious health issues. Because of their size and shape, they can also get stuck in the esophagus if not chewed properly.

Grapes

Both grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs and could be fatal if ingested. If you catch your dog eating either a grape or raisin, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Garlic

We love garlic, but it’s a definite no-no for dogs, as is anything else closely related to garlic, such as onions, leeks, and chives. Dogs who consume garlic can develop anemia or other health issues that may not be readily apparent.

Ice Cream

Who doesn’t like sharing a cold ice cream with their furry friend on a hot summer day? Unfortunately, ice cream is high in sugar, which is very bad for your dog. Purchase specially made ice cream for dogs instead and keep your dog healthy.

Chocolate

You may have already known this, but if not, be aware that chocolate is especially dangerous for dogs. Chocolate can result in immediate vomiting and diarrhea, and too much chocolate can result in more serious health issues such as seizures or unfortunate fatalities.

Before feeding your dog anything other than a recommended dog food, it is wise to consult your veterinarian. Always feed your dog new foods just a little at a time to be sure they can digest it without any difficulty.