Best Human Food for Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Dogs are often considered a part of the family, and as such, we want to provide them with the best possible care and nutrition. While commercial dog food is the most convenient option, many pet owners are turning to human food as a supplement or even a replacement for their dog’s diet. But what human foods are safe and healthy for dogs to eat?

In this article, we will explore the topic of the best human food for dogs. We will discuss the benefits of incorporating human food into your dog’s diet, as well as the potential risks and precautions to take. Additionally, we will provide recommendations on specific types of human food that are safe and nutritious for dogs.

When considering incorporating human food into your dog’s diet, it is important to keep in mind that not all human foods are safe for dogs to eat. Some human foods can be toxic to dogs, while others may not provide the necessary nutrients for a balanced diet. Therefore, it is crucial to do your research and consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.

In terms of specific human foods that are safe and healthy for dogs to eat, there are several options to consider. From lean proteins like chicken and fish to nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables like blueberries and sweet potatoes, there are many human foods that can provide a variety of health benefits for dogs. However, it is important to ensure that these foods are prepared and served in a way that is safe and appropriate for dogs.

Overall, incorporating human food into your dog’s diet can be a great way to provide them with a variety of nutrients and flavors. However, it is important to do so safely and with the guidance of a veterinarian. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the specific types of human food that are safe and healthy for dogs to eat, as well as the precautions to take when doing so.

Best Human Food for Dogs

As dog owners, we all want to provide our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. While dog food is formulated to meet their nutritional needs, it’s not uncommon to want to share our own food with them. However, not all human food is safe for dogs to eat. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best human food for dogs. These products not only provide a tasty treat for your pup, but they are also safe and healthy for them to consume. Check out our top picks below.

Crafted by Humans Loved by Dogs

Crafted by Humans Loved by Dogs is a great option for pet owners looking for a human-grade dog food that is gluten-free, wheat-free, and grain-free.

Pros

• Made with premium, fresh ingredients which are certified human-grade and USDA-certified meats packaged in a generous 9-ounce pouch.
• All ingredients are natural with no animal by-products, preservatives, artificial colors, artificial flavors, or supplements added.
• Can be used as a supplemental meal, combined with dry dog food as a mixer, or as dog food toppers to entice picky dogs with a tasty boost of whole nutrition.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the texture is too “soupy” which makes it extremely messy and difficult for small dogs to eat.
• It is a bit pricier than other dog food options on the market.
• Some customers have reported that their dogs got ill after trying the chicken meal.

We highly recommend Crafted by Humans Loved by Dogs for pet owners who are looking for a healthy and natural option for their furry friends. The food is made entirely in the USA from quality human-grade ingredients and is thoughtfully made to be clean homemade dog food.

The all-natural dog food is great for wellness, picky or senior dogs, and tastes so good that even picky dogs, sensitive dogs, and older dogs can’t refuse it. It is also convenient to use, with ready-to-eat individual servings that require no thawing or adding water.

Overall, this premium dog food is an excellent natural choice for pet owners who want to give their dogs the best possible nutrition.

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food Turkey -amp; Autumn Veggies

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced wet food for your dog, The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food Turkey -amp; Autumn Veggies is a great option. Made with 100% human-grade ingredients, it’s a healthy and tasty meal that your pup will love.

Pros

• Kettle-cooked in small batches for a hearty, smooth texture
• Made with wholesome, human-grade ingredients and no gums or carrageenan
• Complete and balanced, can be served as a complete meal or healthy topper

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• More expensive than some other wet food options
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We’ve been using The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food Turkey -amp; Autumn Veggies for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value. The fact that it’s made with human-grade ingredients means that we can feel confident about the quality and safety of the food we’re feeding our dog.

One of the things we really like about this wet food is that it’s kettle-cooked in small batches, which gives it a hearty, smooth texture that our dog seems to really enjoy. We’ve also noticed that it doesn’t have that artificial smell that some wet foods have, which is a big plus.

Another great thing about The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food Turkey -amp; Autumn Veggies is that it’s complete and balanced, which means that it can be served as a complete meal or healthy topper. This makes it a versatile option that can be used in a variety of ways depending on your dog’s needs.

Of course, there are a few downsides to this product as well. Some dogs may not like the taste or texture, so it may take some trial and error to find out if it’s a good fit for your pup. It’s also more expensive than some other wet food options, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget. Finally, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so be sure to check with your vet before introducing it into your dog’s diet.

Overall, we’re really happy with The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food Turkey -amp; Autumn Veggies and would definitely recommend it to other dog owners looking for a high-quality wet food option.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Beef -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, human-grade dry dog food, The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Beef -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients and produced in a human food facility
• Complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes
• Contains premium ingredients like muscle meat and liver, oats, and live probiotics

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the clusters
• More expensive than some other dry dog foods on the market
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies

We recently tried this dog food with our own furry friend, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutrition profile. The fact that it’s made with 100% human-grade ingredients and produced in a human food facility definitely gives us peace of mind that we’re feeding our dog something safe and healthy.

One thing to note is that the clusters are quite hard and crunchy, which some dogs may not like. However, we found that our dog enjoyed the taste and texture of the food overall, and we didn’t have any issues with him refusing to eat it.

Another thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than some other dry dog foods on the market. However, we think the higher price is worth it for the quality of the ingredients and the peace of mind that comes with feeding our dog something that’s made with human-grade ingredients.

Overall, we would definitely recommend The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Beef -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food to anyone who’s looking for a high-quality, nutritious dry dog food that’s made with human-grade ingredients.

Nature’s Recipe Original Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe, 24 lb Bag Lamb -amp; Rice 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious dry dog food for your furry friend, Nature’s Recipe Original Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe is a great option. Here’s what we found:

Pros

• The #1 ingredient is real, protein-rich lamb to help support strong muscles.
• Nutrient-dense whole grains, such as rice, oatmeal, and barley, contain fiber to help support healthy digestion.
• No added corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The kibble may be too large for smaller dogs.
• The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store in smaller homes.

We recently tried this dog food with our adult dog and were impressed with the results. Our dog seemed to really enjoy the lamb and rice recipe, and we noticed an improvement in her digestion after switching to this food. We appreciate that Nature’s Recipe uses high-quality ingredients and avoids artificial additives.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not enjoy the taste of lamb, so it’s worth trying a small bag before committing to a larger purchase. Additionally, the kibble pieces may be too large for smaller dogs, so you may need to break them up or choose a different food if your dog has trouble chewing.

Overall, we would recommend Nature’s Recipe Original Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe to dog owners looking for a nutritious and tasty dry food option for their adult dogs.

Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food, Humanely Raised Meat Recipe with Wholesome Grains and No Artificial Flavors or Preservatives (Grass-Fed Beef Ancient Grain, 22 Pound (Pack of 1))

We highly recommend Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for dog owners who want to give their furry friends a high-quality diet with wholesome grains and humanely raised meat.

Pros

• The humanely raised meat is sourced from audited high-welfare family farms without growth hormones, making it a responsible and ethical choice for dog owners who care about where their pet’s food comes from.
• The formula is loaded with meaty animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce, providing top-quality health and taste for dogs without antibiotics, GMOs, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
• The recipe features a pure mix of gluten-free grains such as steel-cut oat, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds, which are designed for nutrient-rich wellness using omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamins, and fiber.

Cons

• The smell of the food might be a little weird for some dog owners.
• Some dogs might not like the taste of the food, so it might take some time for them to get used to it.
• The food is a bit expensive compared to other dog food brands.

We have been using Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food for a while now, and we are very happy with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the food, and we feel good knowing that the meat is sourced from audited high-welfare family farms without growth hormones. The formula is also loaded with meaty animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce, which makes it a top-quality choice for dog owners who care about their pet’s health. The recipe features a pure mix of gluten-free grains such as steel-cut oat, brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds, which are designed for nutrient-rich wellness using omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamins, and fiber. We highly recommend Open Farm Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food to any dog owner who wants to give their furry friend a high-quality diet with wholesome grains and humanely raised meat.

Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Kelp, Complete Digestive Health, Vegan Dry Dog Food Bag, Adult Formula, 21-lb Bag Plant-Based with Kelp 21 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a plant-based dog food that’s environmentally friendly and free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, then the Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Kelp may be the perfect choice for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, non-GMO ingredients for optimal nutrition and digestive support
• Contains omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
• Provides complete digestive health with prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of a plant-based diet
• More expensive than some other dog food options

As someone who has tried this product, we can confidently say that it’s a great choice for pet owners who are looking for a sustainable and humane option for their dogs. The Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Kelp is made with a holistic blend of protein-rich, non-GMO vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and sea kelp, which provides all the essential vitamins and minerals that your dog needs to stay healthy and happy.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it’s made with high-quality ingredients that are cooked in the USA. This means that you can be sure that your dog is getting the best possible nutrition and digestive support.

In addition, the Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Kelp contains omega fatty acids that are important for maintaining healthy skin and coat. This means that your dog will not only feel good on the inside but also look good on the outside.

Finally, this dog food provides complete digestive health with prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. This means that your dog’s digestive system will be well taken care of, which can lead to better overall health and well-being.

Overall, we highly recommend the Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe with Kelp for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, sustainable, and humane option for their dogs.

Halo Holistic Dog Food, Complete Digestive Health Cage-Free Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe, Dry Dog Food Bag, Small Breed Formula, 10-lb Bag Cage-Free Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 10 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with premium ingredients and sustainable practices, then Halo Holistic Dog Food is the product for you. Our small breed natural dry dog food is a holistic blend of nutritious whole meat, non-GMO fruits and veggies, and essential vitamins and minerals that your dog needs to look and feel their best.

Pros

• Made with real, whole chicken as the first ingredient and no meat meals of any kind.
• Smaller kibble formulated with higher protein for small breeds and optimal balance of omega fatty acids for a healthy skin and shiny coat.
• Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The food may be a bit more expensive than other brands.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging.

We were impressed by the high-quality ingredients used in this dog food. The chicken used in the food is GAP (Global Animal Partnership) certified Cage-free chicken raised without antibiotics, and the non-GMO fruits and vegetables provide your dog with complete digestive health. The smaller kibble is also formulated with higher protein for small breeds and optimal balance of omega fatty acids for a healthy skin and shiny coat.

While some dogs may not like the taste of the food, we found that most dogs enjoyed it and had no issues with digestion. The food may be a bit more expensive than other brands, but we believe it’s worth the price for the high-quality ingredients and sustainable practices used in the production of the food.

Overall, we highly recommend Halo Holistic Dog Food for small breed dogs who need a high-quality, nutritious diet. With its premium ingredients and sustainable practices, you can be confident that you’re giving your furry friend the best food possible.

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews ,10.5 Oz(Pack of 6) Turkey, Quinoa -amp; Carrots

We highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews, 10.5 Oz(Pack of 6) Turkey, Quinoa -amp; Carrots as a healthy and delicious option for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with human-grade ingredients, ensuring high quality and safety standards.
• Contains no fillers, artificial flavors, artificial preservatives, or GMO ingredients.
• Can be served as a complete meal or healthy mix-in to boost your pup’s health and happiness.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the texture of the chunky stew.
• The price point is higher compared to other wet dog food options.
• A few customers have reported receiving hard and dry food in their packages.

We recently tried The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews, 10.5 Oz(Pack of 6) Turkey, Quinoa -amp; Carrots and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The cage-free turkey, quinoa, carrots, broccoli, and sage create a chunky, hearty stew that our dog loved. We appreciated that it is made with human-grade ingredients and contains no fillers or artificial additives.

Our dog has a sensitive stomach and we were happy to see that this food did not cause any digestive issues. We also liked that it can be served as a complete meal or a healthy mix-in to his regular food. The bone broth reduction adds a savory flavor that our dog couldn’t resist.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the chunky texture of the stew. Additionally, the price point is higher compared to other wet dog food options. We also read a few reviews from customers who received hard and dry food in their packages, which may be a quality control issue.

Overall, we believe that The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews, 10.5 Oz(Pack of 6) Turkey, Quinoa -amp; Carrots is a great option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with high-quality, nutritious food.

The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a premium and human-grade dry dog food option, The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
• Suitable for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes
• Free of potatoes and legumes

Cons

• May be more expensive than other dog food options
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried this product for our furry friend and were pleased with the results. The high-quality ingredients and human-grade production process give us peace of mind that our dog is getting the best nutrition possible. Plus, the bite-size pieces are convenient for easy feeding and portion control.

One thing to keep in mind is that this product may be pricier than other dog food options on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and production process justifies the cost.

Overall, we recommend The Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters Whole Grain Chicken -amp; Oat Dry Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a premium and high-quality dry dog food option.

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food – Complete Meal or Dog Food Topper – Chicken 2 lb (makes 8 lbs) Chicken 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a high-quality human grade dog food, The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food is a great option. We highly recommend this product to pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a healthy and nutritious diet.

Pros

• The Honest Kitchen uses only high-quality, human grade ingredients in their dog food.
• The recipe is grain-free and made with free-range chicken, green beans, and apples.
• This dog food is easy to prepare. Just add warm water and wait three minutes for a fresh, homemade meal.

Cons

• The price point is higher than other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The preparation process can be time-consuming.

We have been using The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s health and energy levels. The ingredients used in this recipe are of high quality, and we appreciate that the food is made in a human food facility.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it is grain-free. Many dogs have allergies or sensitivities to grains, so this recipe is a great option for those dogs. Additionally, the recipe is made with free-range chicken, green beans, and apples, which are all nutritious ingredients that provide a balanced diet for our dog.

Preparing this dog food is easy. We just add warm water and wait three minutes for a fresh, homemade meal. We appreciate that we can control the amount of water we add to the food, which allows us to adjust the consistency based on our dog’s preferences.

The only downside to this dog food is the price point. It is more expensive than other dog food brands, but we believe the high-quality ingredients and preparation process are worth the investment. Some dogs may not like the taste of the food, but we have not experienced this issue with our dog.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food to pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and nutritious diet.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best human food for your dog, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:

1. Ingredients

The first thing you should look at when choosing a human food for your dog is the ingredient list. Make sure that the food doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients, such as chocolate, grapes, or onions, which can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, look for foods that contain high-quality, whole food ingredients, such as lean meats, vegetables, and grains.

2. Nutritional Value

In addition to checking the ingredients, it’s important to consider the nutritional value of the food. Look for foods that are high in protein and contain a balanced ratio of fats and carbohydrates. Additionally, make sure that the food contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron.

3. Texture

Dogs have different preferences when it comes to the texture of their food. Some dogs prefer wet food, while others prefer dry food. Consider your dog’s preferences and choose a food that they will enjoy eating.

4. Brand Reputation

When choosing a human food for your dog, it’s important to consider the reputation of the brand. Look for brands that have a good track record of producing high-quality, safe, and nutritious pet foods. You can also check online reviews and ratings to see what other pet owners have to say about the brand.

By keeping these features in mind, you can choose the best human food for your dog that will provide them with the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which human foods are safe for dogs to consume?

While there are many human foods that are safe for dogs to eat, it is important to remember that not all human foods are safe for dogs. Some human foods can be toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Some of the human foods that are safe for dogs to eat include cooked chicken, turkey, beef, and fish. Dogs can also eat fruits such as apples, bananas, and blueberries, as well as vegetables like carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes.

What are some healthy alternatives to commercial dog food?

There are many healthy alternatives to commercial dog food that can help provide your dog with a balanced and nutritious diet. Some of these alternatives include feeding your dog a raw food diet, cooking homemade meals for your dog, or feeding your dog a high-quality, grain-free kibble.

How often can dogs safely eat human foods?

While it is safe for dogs to eat human foods in moderation, it is important to remember that dogs have different nutritional needs than humans. As a general rule, dogs should not consume more than 10% of their daily caloric intake from human foods. It is also important to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.

What are the benefits and risks of feeding dogs human foods?

Feeding your dog human foods can provide many benefits, such as improved digestion, increased energy, and improved overall health. However, there are also risks associated with feeding dogs human foods, such as the risk of food poisoning, obesity, and nutrient imbalances.

What homemade human food recipes are recommended for dogs?

There are many homemade human food recipes that are safe and healthy for dogs to eat. Some popular recipes include homemade chicken and rice, beef and vegetable stew, and sweet potato and turkey meatballs. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.

Are there any human foods that can improve a dog’s diet and overall health?

Yes, there are many human foods that can improve a dog’s diet and overall health. Some of these foods include cooked lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. However, it is important to remember that dogs have different nutritional needs than humans, and it is important to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.