To Eat or Not to Eat: 10 Human Foods that Dogs Can and Cannot Eat 0

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.

Adopt, Don’t Shop: 4 Inspiring Dog Transformation Stories 0

We’ve all seen them, strays and shelter dogs that look almost gone. Check out these incredible transformation stories that will drop your jaw and make you believe in miracles. With lots of love and understanding, these precious pups went from despair to the cutest, most lovable examples of what a healthy, happy rescue dog can be. 

WARNING: Keep a tissue handy. These phenomenal fur balls will melt your heart and fill you with the desire to rescue a dog of your own!

Echo

Rescuers from the Beagle Freedom Project found this beautiful girl alone in a lab cage. The 24 other rescued beagles played and enjoyed their newfound freedom, but Echo huddled in her confinement, terrified. She’d spent her last six years locked away in a Chinese laboratory. 

“There’s some product they were putting in Echo’s eyes to test it, and she went blind,” an EFP foster volunteer said. “I knew it was going to take a lot of time to help rehabilitate her.”

Echo’s new foster said her first walk outside confused the dog. “As soon as Echo’s paw hit the grass, she would steer the opposite direction.”

It took two days for Echo first to wag her tail, but after a little much-deserved TLC, she began coming out of her shell. Before long, she was barking and playing like a typical pup.

Jenna and Jay saw Echo’s picture online and read about her ordeal.

“We knew that she would require extra love and patience, but we wanted to be able to provide that,” Jenna said.

Watch this quick clip to see some of Echo’s firsts and her amazing transformation from terrified and near death to a vibrant, healthy, and loving dog.

Hugo

When Theoklitos Proestakis found Hugo, he was paralyzed. Area veterinarians had no clue as to the cause. But that didn’t stop one man with a big heart from helping. 

Proestakis worked with Hugo every day, feeding him by hand, holding him up, and using a sling to reteach him to walk. In about two months, Hugo was climbing steps, running, and playing with the other dogs. 

After an introduction to some of Proestakis’ longtime friends, Hugo found his forever home. He now lives in Belgium with his new family. 

Watch this video to see Hugo’s inspiring transformation.

Hercules

When Pia found Hercules, he looked like a skeleton wrapped in skin and had no shine in his eyes. “At this point, he had given up,” she said. 

Pia bundled him up and took him to a local veterinarian. The vet told her they would have to wait and see if Hercules would make it through three days. Pia didn’t expect him to last the night. But with the second chance offered, Hercules had other plans.

“He kept fighting. That’s why his name is Hercules,” Pia said. 

Each day, Hercules grew a little bit stronger. He went from not being able to stand to slowly walking. As he regained his strength and fur, his personality began to shine through. 

The first part of this video will tear at your heart, but the end will fill it to bursting with the incredible power of love! Check out Hercules’ Instagram page to see his amazing progress and his incredible new life.

Julia

Lisa Chiarelli teamed with Hope For Paws to investigate the report of a wolf roaming a neighborhood. She found a beautiful Husky/German Shepherd mix in need of rescue. They removed Julia’s filthy collar, and she let them put on Lisa’s “lucky leash.”

As they walked to the car, the rescuers could see Julia’s terrible physical pain. A trip to the vet found her suffering from mange, multiple bacterial infections, and malnutrition. Time, love, and support brought this girl’s inner beauty out, and, soon, A.R.T. N Paws Animal Rescue found Julia her forever home. 

Read more about Julia's incredible transformation on the Dodo, or watch this video to see her story.

How You Can Help

It’s hard to see these videos and not want to help. But many of us can’t adopt or foster a rescue dog. That’s okay! You can always support your local shelters by donating money, buying supplies, or volunteering your time to help around the shelter. Visit Charity Navigator to find a great local or national animal charity to support.

You can also be sure to purchase products for your pooch from companies that give back to the animal charities, like Doggie Dailies. Every quarter, Doggie Dailies partners with a new animal charity and donates a portion of each sale to help a dog in need. In the 4th quarter of 2020, Doggie Dailies is donating to Hopalong & Second Chance Animal Rescue. Click here to learn more about our partnership, 

If you want to bring a new four-legged friend into your life, consider a rescue dog. You’ll gain unbounded love and gratitude and give a deserving dog another chance at the good life.

Omegas For Dogs: What Every Dog Owner Need to Know About Fatty Acids 0

Ready for the skinny on fats?  When it comes to a balanced diet, fats often don’t get the respect they deserve. Fats are one of three main sources of energy for your dog, and play a critical role in hormone production, cell structure and function, and the absorption of fat soluble vitamins like vitamin A, D, E and K. Just like with humans, the consumption of “good” fats is critical for a healthy dog diet. 

Does your dog have itchy skin or allergies? Are you concerned about your pup’s brain, heart, joints, and general health? Look to Omega fatty acids, which are the building blocks of fats. They play a critical role in keeping your dog healthy.

What Are Omega Fatty Acids? 

Omega Fatty Acids are unsaturated fats, which are critical to your dog’s overall health. They support heart health; reduce itchy, flaky skin; and can relieve allergies and joint pain. And just like their humans, dogs can’t produce two Omega Fatty Acids and must get from their diets - Omega 3 and Omega 6. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that are made up of chains of carbon molecules linked with single or double bonds. Because of their health benefits, we call them “the good fats.” The three types of Omega 3 fatty acids are: Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). 

Unfortunately, your doggie does not produce omega 3 fatty acids and, therefore, it is critical to supplement omega 3 for dogs in their diet. The best source for omega 3s for dogs is cold water fatty fish, such as wild alaskan salmon, mackerel, or halibut. 

Omega 3 fatty acids play a critical role in cell membranes and affect the function of cell receptors in these membranes. Supplementing omega 3 in your dog’s diet can have a tremendous positive impact in your dog’s overall health. Here are a few benefits of omega 3s for dogs:

• Improves heart health
• Supports brain development and cognitive function
• Reduces inflammation
• Provides allergy relief
• Supports neurological function
• Boost immune system 
• Supports skin and coat health

Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-6 fatty acids are also polyunsaturated and must come from diet. The four types of omega 6 fatty acids are: Linoleic acid (LA), Arachidonic Acid (ARA), Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA), and Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA). The most important omega 6 for dogs is Linoleic Acid, which plays a critical role in skin and coat health. Additionally, Omega 6 fatty acids provide numerous health benefits including: 

• Boost immune health
• Improves the repair of skeletal and muscular tissue
• Helps regulate metabolism 
• Improves bone health 

Omega 6 fatty acids are found in animal and plant sources such as vegetable oils, nuts and seeds, poultry, fish, and eggs. Unlike Omega 3s, Omega 6 fatty acids are commonly found in commercial dog foods. 

Why are they important?

“Dietary fats, as well as specific fatty acids, are essential in the diet of dogs and cats,” the American College of Veterinary Nutrition and Today’s Veterinary Practice say.

“Dogs and cats require Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids in the diet because they cannot produce these essential fatty acids on their own.”

So, what do they do? They:

• Provide energy
• Aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
• Help fight inflammation
• Help create healthy skin and a healthy coat
• Promote healthy growth and development in general

“Fatty acid supplements can reduce shedding, promote growth of the undercoat, reduce tendencies to inflammation, and help resolve inflammation,” veterinarians Steve Marsden, Shawn Messonnier, and Cheryl Yuill tell us in their VCA Hospitals article.

A ton of research has proven the benefits of essential fatty acid supplements, with dozens of studies conducted on Omega-3s alone. 

How to make sure your dog gets the right amount of Omega Fatty Acids?

Supplements! Adding an omega supplement to your dog’s diet is a great way to ensure they are getting proper amounts of omega fatty acids. 

Doggie Dailies Omega Soft Chews are a comprehensive dog fish oil supplement packed with essential vitamins and super nutrients to help promote healthy skin, shiny coat, support a strong immune system and provide allergy relief for dogs. Each chew contains wild Alaskan Salmon oil, rich in Omega 3 and 6, as well as 11 additional potent ingredients known to support canine health including Bee Pollen, Hemp Powder, Apple Cider Vinegar, Biotin, and Licorice Root. 

All of our supplements in the USA in a GMP compliant, Level 3 SQF certified facility, using the strictest quality and safety standards. All of their products are safe for dogs of any size, age, or breed. And, best of all, just let them know if you’re not happy with the product. 

“We don’t make you jump through hoops to get your money back if our products are not right for you. It’s that simple, and it’s part of our Doggie Dailies Promise.”

Good Dog Gift Guide: 21 Perfect Presents for Dogs 0

The holidays are here! It’s time to give thanks, and show your love and gratitude for your friends and family. Based on our calculations, your dog ranks pretty high on the list of those you love. 

As they say, it’s better to give than to receive. Show your pup some love with a few special presents. From high-tech toys to functional treats, our good dog gift guide has your doggie covered. Here are 21 pawsome presents for your canine companion this holiday: 

1. Holiday Hide & Seek Squeaky Toys by  ZippyPaws

Test your dog’s intelligence and combat boredom with ZippyPaws Holiday Hide & Seek Squeaky Toys. Your dog will love to bury their nose in the toy and dig out the critters. They’ll be begging you to hide them again, and maybe hide a treat or two alongside the critters! 

2. Holiday Dog Collar with Bow Tie

It’s hard to imagine your pup could get any cuter. These fancy holiday themed collars with bow ties might just up the cuteness factor. You can add or remove the bow tie depending on how formal the occasion is. One thing is for sure, your pup will be turning heads in these collars.

3. Snuggle Puppy by SmartPetLove

Whether crate training, a new transition or perhaps a thunderstorm, the Snuggle Puppy is here to help. This soft pup is designed to comfort and help relieve anxiety in your dog. It recreates the intimacy and physical warmth of cuddling. It even has a “real-feel” heartbeat!

4. Treat Dispensing Dog Toys by Wainbowa

This pack of four treat dispensing balls will keep your pup physically and mentally stimulated, as they work to get all the treats out of the balls!  Perfect for when your pup wants attention but you have a zoom meeting. Load the balls with treats or kibble and let your dog go to work.

5. Doggie Dailies Hip & Joint Soft Chews 

Protecting your pup’s joints is critical to helping them maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle. Doggie Dailies Advanced Hip & Joint Soft Chews contain the perfect balance of six powerful active ingredients that work together to cushion and protect your dog’s joints. A huge bonus is they come in two delicious flavors: Chicken and Peanut Butter. 

6. Dual Point Massage Roller by PetWell

Who doesn’t love a good massage? Your pup will certainly love the Dual Point Massager by PetWell, which helps relieve deep muscle tension. This dual roller is designed to massage out pain and stiffness while also pinpointing and relieving tension from arthritis and inflammation.  

7. Smart Bone by Wickedbone

This high tech dog bone will solve your pup’s boredom and become their favorite play pal. The Smart Bone is programmed to attract your dog’s attention and keep playtime going by reacting to your dog. You can either set it to automatic or remotely control the bone from your phone. 

8. Suction Cup Dog Toy for Aggressive Chewers

Do you have a super chewer? This suction cup rope ball toy will give them the ultimate tug of war test. Secure it to any smooth surface, add a few treats to the ball, and let your dog enjoy. 

9. Aquapaw Pet Bathing Tool

Splish Splash, your doggie is taking a bath! This 2-in-1 sprayer and scrubber will make bath time a breeze! You can even adjust the water flow. Just attach the aquapaw to a standard shower head pipe or to a garden hose for quick, easy bath.

10. Doggie Dailies Spa Bundle

Pamper your pup with Doggie Dailies Spa Bundle! Our 2-in-1 Shampoo + Conditioner and Ear Wash with Tea Tree Oil make this powerful cleaning duo a no brainer. They will help wash away dirt and grime, leaving your dog smelling and feeling clean and fresh!

11. Soggy Doggy Super Shammy

Put an end to wet dog smell once and for all! This super absorbent, microfiber chenille dog towel will get your dog dry in a snap. 5 times more absorbent than other towels, the super shammy soaks up water like a sponge and wicks away excess moisture.

12. MudBuster Portable Paw Washer by Dexas 

Paw prints are adorable, except when it’s dirt all over your house.The MudBuster will put an end to dreaded dirty paw prints. Just add some water and dip a dirty paw into the compact container. The silicone bristles will loosen dirt and keep the mess in the container. Voila, clean paws!  

13. Doggie Dailies 5-in-1 Multivitamin Chews 

Healthy Dog = Happy Dog! Adding a multivitamin to your dog’s diet ensures they are getting the nutrition they need. Doggie Dailies Peanut Butter 5-in-1 Multivitamin Soft Chews are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that promote healthy joints, skin & coat, digestion, immunity, and cardiovascular function. 

14. iFetch interactive Ball Launcher

Does your doggie have endless energy? The iFetch ball launcher will provide endless entertainment for your pup. Once the ball is placed in the dispenser, it will throw the ball a predetermined distance. Your pup can play fetch forever… or at least until the batteries run out.

15. Dog Paw Wax by Musher’s Secret 

Protect your pup’s paws with Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax. This all season paw protection creates a breathable, dense barrier to protect your dog’s paw from the elements in even the most extreme weather conditions. 

16. Doggie Dailies Probiotic Soft Chews 

It all starts with the gut! Your dog’s gut is made up of about 70% immune cells, making it the biggest immune organ. Maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria is vital to your dog’s overall health. Doggie Dailies Probiotic Soft Chews contain 5 powerful strains of probiotics known to be most effective for dogs and puppies. As an added bonus, these functional treats come in two tasty flavors: Duck and Pumpkin. 

17. GPS Tracking Collar Attachment by Tractive

Keep an eye on your pup and his activity, and never worry again! Simply attach the waterproof lightweight tracker to your dog’s collar. Track your furry friend in real time without any distance limit! This product does require a subscription plan, which starts at only $4.99 per month. 

18. Dog Holiday Sweater by PUPTECK

 Baby, it’s cold outside? This doggie sweater will keep your pup toasty during the cooler months, and keep them in the holiday spirit. Don’t worry, they offer sweaters for dogs of all sizes. The handy leash hole allows your pup to keep their sweater on for walks!

19. Doggie Dailies Salmon Omega Soft Chews 

Support your dog’s health from head to tail with Doggie Dailies Salmon Omega Soft Chews. This functional treat is specially formulated with essential vitamins and supernutrients to help promote healthy skin and shiny coat, and provide seasonal allergy and immune system support. Your dog is sure to gobble up these delicious treats. 

20. Memory Foam Dog Bed by Besure

This orthopedic memory foam dog bed will give your pup a soft, cozy place to rest and relax. The memory foam technology provides the perfect amount of softness and support, and helps to soothe aching joints.

21. Petcube Camera System