Best People Food for Dogs: Human Foods That Are Safe and Healthy for Your Canine Companion

Dogs are more than just pets; they are members of the family. As such, we want to give them the best possible care, including their diet. While there are many great dog food options available, some owners prefer to give their furry friends people food. However, not all human foods are safe for dogs, and some can even be harmful. That’s where our guide comes in. We’ve spent hours researching and testing various human foods to identify the best options for dogs.

When it comes to feeding dogs people food, it’s important to keep in mind that their dietary needs are different from ours. Dogs require a balanced diet that includes protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. While some human foods can provide these nutrients, others can upset their stomachs or even be toxic. We’ve focused on identifying the human foods that are not only safe for dogs but also provide them with the nutrients they need.

One critical thing to keep in mind when feeding dogs people food is portion control. Dogs have smaller stomachs than humans, so even a small amount of food can be a significant portion of their daily intake. It’s also important to avoid foods that are high in fat, salt, or sugar, as these can lead to health problems like obesity and diabetes. By following our guide, you can ensure that you’re giving your dog the best possible nutrition without compromising their health.

We’ve tested and researched a variety of human foods to find the best options for dogs. From lean proteins like chicken and fish to nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, we’ve identified the top choices for keeping your dog healthy and happy. So whether you’re looking to supplement their diet with some human food or just want to give them a special treat, our guide has got you covered.

Best People Food for Dogs

As dog owners, we all want to give our furry friends the best nutrition possible. While dog food is formulated specifically for their dietary needs, sometimes we can’t resist sharing our own food with them. But not all human food is safe for dogs to eat. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best people food for dogs that is not only safe but also healthy for them. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Check out our top picks below.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a natural dry dog food that’s packed with nutrients and flavor, Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is a great choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient
• Whole Health Blend supports healthy mind, body, and energy levels
• No fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Large 40-pound bag may be difficult to store for some

We recently tried out Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for our dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value. The real beef provides a great source of protein, while the peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the Whole Health Blend, which includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, antioxidants from superfoods, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels. We noticed that our dog seemed more alert and energetic after switching to this food.

Another great thing about Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe is that it contains no fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives. This means that we could feel good about feeding it to our dog and knowing that we were providing him with a healthy and nutritious meal.

Overall, we highly recommend giving Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe a try if you’re looking for a natural dry dog food that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 30 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is packed with nutrition, then IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option.

Pros

• Complete and balanced meal with 0% fillers
• Contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joints
• Enriched with essential nutrients and antioxidants for whole body health

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We have been using IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our dog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The kibble is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and is packed with protein sourced from chicken and egg. Our dog loves the taste and always finishes his bowl.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it is a complete and balanced meal with 0% fillers. It contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for strong bones and joints, which is important for large breed dogs. Additionally, it is enriched with essential nutrients and antioxidants for whole body health.

While our dog loves the taste, we have heard from other dog owners that their dogs don’t enjoy it as much. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for some dogs, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s eating habits. Lastly, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this dog food may not be suitable for them.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for dog owners who want to provide their furry friend with a high-quality, nutritious meal.

WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with real ingredients, then WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real meat first
• No by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• Added calcium and more

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with a sensitive stomach
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Packaging may vary from images shown

We recently tried this dog food for our furry friend and were impressed with the results. The sustainably raised American salmon is the #1 ingredient, and it’s great to know that there are no by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

The added calcium and phosphorus support bone and tooth health, while the guaranteed glucosamine helps with joint health. Additionally, the added antioxidants and DHA provide immune system and brain function support.

We also appreciate that this dog food is vet-formulated with help from veterinarians and pet nutritionists. The feeding transition instructions were helpful in avoiding any dietary upsets.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, and it may not be suitable for dogs with a sensitive stomach. Additionally, the packaging may vary from the images shown.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with real ingredients and supports your dog’s health, then WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog is definitely worth trying.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

If you’re looking for a simple and natural dog food that your furry friend will love, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great choice. Made with only seven natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, this dog food is a great way to add some variety to your dog’s diet.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck
• Can be used as a mix-in, topper, or snack
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*

Cons

• Expensive compared to other wet dog foods
• Some customers have reported that the product clumps together weirdly
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or restrictions

We’ve been using Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement as a mix-in for our dog’s dry food, and he absolutely loves it. The real chicken and duck give it a delicious flavor that he can’t resist, and we feel good knowing that we’re feeding him high-quality, natural ingredients.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is on the expensive side compared to other wet dog foods. However, we think it’s worth the price for the quality ingredients and the convenience of having a mix-in that our dog loves.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement to anyone looking for a natural and delicious way to add some variety to their dog’s diet.

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with wholesome ingredients and is free from artificial flavors and preservatives, then Open Farm’s Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The meat used in this recipe is humanely raised and comes from high-welfare family farms, which means you can feel good about what you’re feeding your furry friend.
• This formula is loaded with meaty animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce, making it a top-quality option for dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet.
• The mix of gluten-free grains used in this recipe, such as steel-cut oat, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds, provides dogs with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamins, and fiber.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, as it has a unique smell that may take some getting used to.
• This food is on the expensive side, which may not be ideal for pet owners who are on a tight budget.
• The kibble is small, which may not be suitable for larger breeds who need bigger pieces to chew on.

We recently tried Open Farm’s Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food in the Wild Salmon Ancient Grain variant, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients used in this recipe. The fact that the meat is humanely raised and comes from high-welfare family farms is a huge plus, as it means that we can feel good about what we’re feeding our dog.

One thing to note is that this food has a unique smell that may take some getting used to. However, once our dog got used to it, he seemed to really enjoy the taste and would eagerly eat it up at mealtime.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Open Farm’s Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food to anyone who is looking for a high-quality dog food that is made with wholesome ingredients and is free from artificial flavors and preservatives. While it may be on the expensive side, the quality of the ingredients used in this recipe makes it well worth the investment.

CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food, Real Salmon -amp; Barley Recipe, 4 lbs, with Wholesome Grains

If you’re looking for a premium dog food that’s packed with wholesome ingredients, then CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food is the perfect choice for you. Made with real salmon as the first ingredient and a blend of wholesome grains like barley, oatmeal, and brown rice, this recipe offers complete and balanced goodness for adult dogs. Plus, it’s formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.

Pros

• Crafted with real salmon as the first ingredient, paired with wholesome grains like barley, oatmeal, and brown rice for a delicious taste that your dog will love.
• Made using 9 or fewer key ingredients that are easily recognizable, perfect for large or small dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin, and coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon as much as other protein sources.
• The kibble may be too big for some small dogs to eat comfortably.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands.

We recently tried CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food for our dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real salmon flavor was a hit with our pup, and we appreciated that the recipe was made without corn, wheat, or soy. We also noticed that our dog’s coat looked shinier and healthier after switching to this food.

One thing to note is that the kibble size may be too big for some small dogs to eat comfortably. However, we didn’t have any issues with our medium-sized dog. The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands, but we think it’s worth it for the high-quality ingredients and the peace of mind that comes with feeding our dog a nutritious and well-rounded meal.

Overall, we highly recommend CANIDAE Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Adult Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a premium dog food that’s made with real, wholesome ingredients.

McLovin’s Pet Beef Liver Treats

If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious treat for your furry friend, McLovin’s Pet Beef Liver Treats might just be what you need.

Pros

• Made from high-quality, grass-fed beef liver that offers a rich and flavorful snacking experience for your beloved pets.
• Freeze-dried to preserve the natural nutrients and flavors of the beef liver, ensuring a healthy and delicious treat for your furry friends.
• Single ingredient treats that are free from artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives, making them a wholesome and natural choice for your pets.

Cons

• Some larger pieces still have some sort of paper backing, which can be a bit off-putting.
• The treats can be a bit crumbly, which can make them a bit messy to handle.
• The strong smell of the beef liver might not be appealing to all pet owners.

We’ve been using these treats for a while now, and we must say that we’re quite impressed with the quality and taste of the product. The beef liver is of premium quality, and our pets seem to love the rich and flavorful taste.

One of the best things about these treats is that they are freeze-dried, which means that they retain all the natural nutrients and flavors of the beef liver. This makes them a healthy and delicious snack that your pets will surely enjoy.

Another great thing about these treats is that they are single-ingredient, which means that they are free from artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives. This makes them a wholesome and natural choice for your pets, especially if they have dietary sensitivities or allergies.

However, we did notice that some of the larger pieces still have some sort of paper backing, which can be a bit off-putting. Additionally, the treats can be a bit crumbly, which can make them a bit messy to handle. Finally, the strong smell of the beef liver might not be appealing to all pet owners.

Overall, we think that McLovin’s Pet Beef Liver Treats are a great choice for pet owners who want to give their furry friends a healthy and delicious snack. The product is of premium quality, and the freeze-drying process ensures that the natural nutrients and flavors of the beef liver are retained. While there are some minor drawbacks, we think that the pros outweigh the cons, and we would definitely recommend this product to other pet owners.

OraVet Dental Chews for Dogs

We highly recommend the OraVet Dental Chews for Dogs as a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and breath fresh.

Pros

• The chews are easy to give to your dog and have a delicious vanilla aroma with a poultry flavor that your dog will love.
• Each chew uses your dog’s own chewing action to loosen and dislodge plaque, helping it break away from teeth down to the gumline, and reduces plaque and tartar build-up.
• The chews are the only dental care product for dogs containing delmopinol, which forms a barrier to help protect against the harmful bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

Cons

• The chews are a bit expensive compared to other dental care products for dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the chews.
• The chews are only suitable for dogs and puppies six months of age or older weighing 3.5 pounds or more.

We have been using the OraVet Dental Chews for Dogs for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s breath and teeth. The chews are easy to give to your dog and have a delicious vanilla aroma with a poultry flavor that your dog will love. Each chew uses your dog’s own chewing action to loosen and dislodge plaque, helping it break away from teeth down to the gumline, and reduces plaque and tartar build-up. We also love that the chews are the only dental care product for dogs containing delmopinol, which forms a barrier to help protect against the harmful bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

However, the chews are a bit expensive compared to other dental care products for dogs, and some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the chews. Additionally, the chews are only suitable for dogs and puppies six months of age or older weighing 3.5 pounds or more. Overall, we highly recommend the OraVet Dental Chews for Dogs as a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean and breath fresh.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that provides your furry friend with all of the essential nutrients, Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Real meat is the #1 ingredient, providing your dog with the protein they need for strong muscles and bones.
• This dog food is nutrient-rich, providing your dog with vitamins and minerals from fruits and superfoods.
• Includes K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, antioxidants, and prebiotics to support healthy digestion and overall health and wellness.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of bison and venison.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.
• It is a bit pricier than some other dog food brands.

We recently switched our dog to Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Our dog has more energy, a shinier coat, and seems to be enjoying mealtime more than ever before.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it contains real meat as the #1 ingredient. This provides our dog with the protein they need to build and maintain strong muscles and bones. Additionally, the nutrient-rich formula includes vitamins and minerals from fruits and superfoods, which helps support our dog’s overall health and wellbeing.

Another great feature of Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food is the inclusion of K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, antioxidants, and prebiotics. These ingredients work together to support healthy digestion, which is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing digestive issues.

While there are a few downsides to this dog food, such as the higher price point and the fact that some dogs may not like the taste of bison and venison, we believe that the benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks. If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that will provide your furry friend with all of the essential nutrients they need to thrive, we highly recommend Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison and Venison Adult Dry Dog Food.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small -amp; Toy Breed Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small -amp; Toy Breed Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs. With its easy-to-digest ingredients and small kibble size, it is perfect for little dogs.

Pros

• Highly digestible ingredients that are easy on your small dog’s stomach
• Nourishing omega 6 fatty acids and vitamin E promote healthy skin and a shiny coat
• Provides high quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small breed dogs

Cons

• Not recommended for puppies or mature adult dogs (-gt; 6 years of age) or pregnant or nursing dogs
• Packaging can be a choking hazard if not kept out of reach of pets and children
• May be more expensive than other dog food brands

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small -amp; Toy Breed Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog and have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. The kibble size is perfect for his little mouth and the high-quality protein has helped him maintain lean muscle. We also love that it contains natural ingredients and a proprietary antioxidant blend for lifelong immune support.

One downside is that it is not recommended for puppies or mature adult dogs (-gt; 6 years of age) or pregnant or nursing dogs, so it may not be suitable for all dog owners. Additionally, the packaging can be a choking hazard if not kept out of reach of pets and children. It may also be more expensive than other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality and benefits make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small -amp; Toy Breed Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs who need precise nutrition and support for their immune system, skin, and coat.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best people food for your dog, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend looking for products that meet the following criteria:

Ingredients

The ingredients in the product should be high-quality and easily digestible for your dog. Look for products that list meat as the first ingredient, and avoid products that contain fillers or artificial preservatives.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the product you choose provides your dog with the necessary nutrients they need to maintain a healthy diet. Look for products that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

Size and Texture

Consider the size and texture of the food you choose. Smaller dogs may need smaller kibble or softer food, while larger dogs may prefer larger kibble. Additionally, if your dog has dental issues, you may want to choose a softer food or one that is specifically designed to promote dental health.

Brand Reputation

Choose a brand with a good reputation for producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have been recommended by veterinarians or have received positive reviews from other dog owners.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best people food for your dog and ensure they are getting the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top human foods that are safe for dogs?

Some of the top human foods that are safe for dogs include cooked lean meats, such as chicken and turkey, plain cooked vegetables like carrots and green beans, and fruits like apples and bananas. However, it’s important to remember that every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another.

Which human foods can dogs eat without health risks?

There are several human foods that dogs can eat without health risks, including plain cooked chicken, turkey, and lean beef, cooked eggs, plain cooked vegetables like carrots and green beans, and fruits like bananas and apples. However, it’s important to avoid giving dogs foods that are toxic to them, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of feeding dogs human food?

The benefits of feeding dogs human food include providing them with a variety of nutrients, and the opportunity to bond with their owners over mealtime. However, there are also some drawbacks to feeding dogs human food, such as the risk of obesity and digestive issues if the food is not properly balanced and portioned.

How often can dogs safely consume human food?

Dogs can safely consume human food in moderation, and it’s important to ensure that the food is properly balanced and portioned. A good rule of thumb is to limit human food to no more than 10% of a dog’s daily caloric intake.

What are some healthy homemade food options for dogs?

Healthy homemade food options for dogs include cooked lean meats like chicken and turkey, cooked vegetables like carrots and green beans, and fruits like apples and bananas. It’s important to ensure that the food is properly balanced and portioned, and to avoid giving dogs foods that are toxic to them.

Which human foods are considered favorites among dogs?

Some human foods that are considered favorites among dogs include cooked chicken, turkey, and beef, cooked eggs, peanut butter, and plain cooked vegetables like carrots and green beans. However, it’s important to remember that every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another.