Best Human Food for Dogs: Top Picks for a Nutritious Diet

Dogs are man’s best friend, and as such, we want to provide them with the best possible care. One way we can do this is by giving them human food. While not all human food is safe for dogs, there are some that are not only safe but also beneficial to their health.

In this article, we will be discussing the best human food for dogs. We will cover the benefits of feeding your dog human food, the specific types of human food that are safe for dogs, and what to look for when selecting the right human food for your furry friend.

When it comes to feeding your dog human food, there are several benefits. First and foremost, it can be a great way to add variety to their diet. Many commercial dog foods contain the same ingredients, and feeding your dog human food can provide them with different nutrients that they may not be getting from their regular diet.

Additionally, feeding your dog human food can be a bonding experience. Sharing food with your dog can create a sense of closeness and trust between you and your pet.

However, not all human food is safe for dogs. Some foods, like chocolate and grapes, can be toxic and even deadly to dogs. It’s important to know which human foods are safe for dogs and which ones to avoid.

When selecting human food for your dog, it’s crucial to pay attention to the ingredients. Look for foods that are high in protein and low in fat. Avoid foods that are high in sugar or sodium, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

In the next section, we will discuss the specific types of human food that are safe and healthy for dogs.

Best Human Food for Dogs

As dog owners, we all want to provide our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. While it’s important to choose a high-quality dog food, sometimes we want to share our own food with our pups. However, not all human foods are safe for dogs to eat. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best human food options that are safe and healthy for dogs to enjoy. From fruits and vegetables to lean proteins, these options will not only satisfy your pup’s taste buds, but also provide them with essential nutrients. Check out our top picks below.

Crafted by Humans Loved by Dogs

Crafted by Humans Loved by Dogs is the perfect choice for pet owners looking for human-grade food for their furry friends.

Pros

• Made with all-natural, human-grade ingredients
• Gluten-free, wheat-free, and grain-free options
• Convenient and easy to serve

Cons

• Pricier than traditional dog food
• Texture may be too soupy for some dogs
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

Crafted by Humans Loved by Dogs is a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with wholesome, nutritious food. The food is made with all-natural, human-grade ingredients, making it a great natural choice for sensitive dogs. It’s also gluten-free, wheat-free, and grain-free, so it’s perfect for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.

One of the best things about this dog food is how easy it is to serve. The individual servings come in a convenient pouch, so there’s no need to thaw or add water. It’s perfect for travel, hiking, or simply as a delicious human-grade meal at home. The variety pack of five pouches allows your dog to sample all the flavors, including turkey, pork, salmon, and beef.

However, it’s important to note that Crafted by Humans Loved by Dogs is pricier than traditional dog food. Additionally, the texture may be too soupy for some dogs, and it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Overall, if you’re looking for high-quality, human-grade food for your dog, Crafted by Humans Loved by Dogs is an excellent choice.

JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Topper Starter Pack

If you’re looking for a fresh dog food brand that is trusted by vets, then JustFoodForDogs is a great option.

Pros

• The starter pack comes with two different recipes, making it easy to try out different options for your dog.
• JustFoodForDogs uses 100% human-grade ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re feeding your pet.
• Many pet parents have seen improvements in their dog’s health after switching to JustFoodForDogs, including better digestion, healthier skin and coat, and increased energy.

Cons

• This frozen fresh dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble.
• Some picky eaters may not take to the food right away.
• The packaging can take up a lot of space in your freezer.

We recently tried out the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Topper Starter Pack for our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The two recipes included in the starter pack allowed us to see which flavors our dog preferred before committing to one. We also appreciated that the food was 100% human-grade and could see a noticeable difference in our dog’s coat and energy levels after switching to JustFoodForDogs.

While the frozen fresh dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble, we believe the benefits are worth it. However, some picky eaters may take some time to adjust to the new food. Additionally, the packaging can take up quite a bit of space in your freezer. Overall, we highly recommend the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Topper Starter Pack for pet parents who want to provide their dogs with high-quality, nutritious food.

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Whole Grain Dog Food – Complete Meal or Topper – Chicken 10 lb (makes 40 lbs) Chicken 10 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a human-grade, whole food option for your furry friend, The Honest Kitchen’s dehydrated dog food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with human-grade, free-range chicken and organic oats, carrots, and bananas
• Suitable for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds and sizes, including large breed puppies and adult mothers
• Contains no preservatives, by-products, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy

Cons

• May not be as convenient as traditional kibble
• More expensive than some other dog food options
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture

We’ve been using The Honest Kitchen’s dehydrated dog food for a few weeks now, and we’ve been really impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the convenience of the product. It’s easy to prepare – just add warm water and wait a few minutes – and our dog seems to really enjoy the taste.

One thing to keep in mind is that this product is more expensive than traditional kibble, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, though, we think that The Honest Kitchen’s dehydrated dog food is a great option for those looking for a high-quality, whole food option for their furry friend.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that supports your dog’s overall health and wellness, IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice. Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, this dry dog food is enriched with antioxidants to help support your dog’s immune health.

Pros

• Supports healthy digestion with a tailored blend of natural fiber and prebiotics
• Formulated to support whole-body health, including 7 essential nutrients to help support a healthy heart
• Enriched with antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging

We’ve been using IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for several months now, and our dog loves it. The smaller kibble size makes mealtime more enjoyable for our pup, and we appreciate that it includes 7 essential nutrients to help support a healthy heart. We’ve also noticed that our dog’s skin and coat look healthier since we started using this dry dog food.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dry dog food, so it may take some trial and error to find the right food for your pup. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this may not be the best choice for them.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a dry dog food that supports their dog’s overall health and wellness.

IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 29.1 lb. Bag Chicken 3.64 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that helps manage your furry friend’s weight while still providing essential nutrients, IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great choice.

Pros

• Contains L-carnitine and less fat to support healthy weight in adult dogs
• Wholesome grains provide essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy
• Supports strong, firm muscles with protein sourced from chicken and egg

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Not all dogs may show significant weight loss with this product

We’ve been using IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for a few months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in our dog’s weight and energy levels. The kibble size is perfect for our medium-sized dog and she seems to really enjoy the taste.

One of the things we appreciate about this product is the inclusion of L-carnitine, which has been shown to support healthy weight loss in dogs. The addition of wholesome grains also provides our dog with the essential nutrients and carbohydrates she needs for healthy energy levels.

We’ve also noticed that our dog’s muscles seem to be stronger and more firm since switching to this dog food. The protein sourced from chicken and egg is likely responsible for this improvement.

While our dog seems to really enjoy this dog food, we have heard from other dog owners that their dogs don’t like the taste as much. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable for them. Finally, it’s important to note that not all dogs may show significant weight loss with this product, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s progress closely.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for any dog owner looking to manage their furry friend’s weight while still providing essential nutrients and supporting strong muscles.

IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 15 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Contains L-carnitine and less fat to support healthy weight in adult dogs
• Provides essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy
• Supports strong, firm muscles with protein sourced from chicken and egg

Cons

• May give your dog gas
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains grains, which some dogs may be allergic to

We’ve been using this dog food for a few weeks now and have noticed a positive difference in our dog’s weight. The kibble is small and easy for our dog to eat, and he seems to enjoy the taste. We appreciate that this dog food contains L-carnitine and less fat to support healthy weight, as well as protein sourced from chicken and egg to support strong muscles.

One downside we’ve noticed is that the dog food can give our dog gas, which can be unpleasant. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it may take some experimentation to find a dog food that your furry friend enjoys. Finally, this dog food contains grains, which some dogs may be allergic to, so be sure to check with your vet if your dog has any known allergies.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Proactive Health Healthy Weight Control Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help their furry friend maintain a healthy weight.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains, 30 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s both tasty and nutritious, IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Contains real chicken as the first ingredient
• Enriched with antioxidants to support a strong immune system
• Omega-6 fatty acids support healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit more expensive than other options on the market

We recently tried IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks for our dog, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the taste of the food and seemed to have more energy throughout the day.

One of the things we appreciated about this dog food is that it contains real chicken as the first ingredient. This means that our dog was getting high-quality protein to help support his muscles and overall health. Additionally, the food is enriched with antioxidants to support a strong immune system, which is especially important during times of stress or illness.

Another benefit of IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks is that it contains omega-6 fatty acids, which support healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat. After a few weeks of feeding our dog this food, we noticed a significant improvement in the condition of his coat.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks for dogs who need a nutritious and tasty food option. While it may be a bit more expensive than other options on the market, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the investment.

IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 30 lb. Bag Chicken 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want a complete and balanced meal for your large breed dog, IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real chicken, which provides your dog with the protein it needs to build and maintain strong muscles.
• The kibble contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin, which help support your dog’s bones and joints.
• The formula includes 7 essential nutrients that promote a healthy heart and antioxidants that help support your dog’s immune health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• The kibble may be too large for some dogs to eat comfortably.
• The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store if you have limited space.

We recently tried IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our large breed dog and were impressed with the results. The kibble is a good size and shape, and our dog had no trouble eating it. We noticed that our dog’s coat looked shinier and healthier after a few weeks of eating this food, and his energy levels seemed to improve as well.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food. If your dog is a picky eater, you may want to try a smaller bag before committing to the 30-pound size. Additionally, the kibble may be too large for some dogs to eat comfortably, so you may need to break it up or moisten it with water to make it easier to chew.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Adult High Protein Large Breed Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken to anyone looking for a high-quality, complete and balanced meal for their large breed dog. The natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin, along with the 7 essential nutrients and antioxidants, make this a great choice for promoting whole body health in your furry friend.

Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food

We highly recommend Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food for pet owners who want a high-quality, grain-free, and all-natural dog food that is also human grade.

Pros

• Spot Farms uses regionally sourced, antibiotic-free chicken as the main ingredient for their Grain-Free Chicken Recipe.
• The food is free of grains and antibiotics and contains up to 4–7X the amount of real meat compared to the average natural kibble listing meat as the first ingredient.
• The gentle process of dehydrating preserves more of the food’s nutritional value while maintaining its natural color and taste.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food can become congealed and gummy when rehydrated, which may be unappealing to some dogs.
• The food has a powdery consistency that may not be as satisfying to dogs who prefer chunkier food.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog foods on the market.

Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to feed their dogs high-quality, all-natural food that is also human grade. The food is made with regionally sourced, antibiotic-free chicken as the main ingredient and is free of grains and antibiotics. Additionally, the gentle process of dehydrating preserves more of the food’s nutritional value while maintaining its natural color and taste.

One of the benefits of Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food is that it contains up to 4–7X the amount of real meat compared to the average natural kibble listing meat as the first ingredient. This means that your dog will be getting more high-quality protein and nutrients from their food.

Another benefit of Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food is that it is easy to prepare and great for active, on-the-go lifestyles. The food can be used as a complete meal or as a nutritious topper for dog food. An 8 lb box makes 32 lbs of food, which means that it is also a cost-effective choice for pet owners.

However, some customers have reported that the food can become congealed and gummy when rehydrated, which may be unappealing to some dogs. Additionally, the food has a powdery consistency that may not be as satisfying to dogs who prefer chunkier food. Finally, the price point may be higher than some other dog foods on the market.

Overall, Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to feed their dogs high-quality, all-natural food that is also human grade.

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 to anyone who wants to provide their dog with a complete and balanced meal made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients.

Pros

• The chunky, hearty texture of the stew is perfect for dogs who enjoy wet food.
• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients and produced in a human food facility, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards.
• This recipe contains no gums, carrageenan, feed grade ingredients, meat meals, fillers, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives.

Cons

• The price may be higher than some other wet food options.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the stew.
• The packaging may be too small for larger dogs or for those who require more food per meal.

We recently tried The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews, 10.5 Oz(Pack of 6) Turkey, Quinoa -amp; Carrots with our dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the texture of the stew. Our dog enjoyed the taste and eagerly finished his meal, and we appreciated the peace of mind that comes with feeding him a high-quality, human-grade food.

The stew is kettle-cooked in small batches for a hearty, chunky texture in a bone broth reduction, which our dog found very appealing. We also appreciated that the recipe contains no gums, carrageenan, feed grade ingredients, meat meals, fillers, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives, making it a healthier choice for our dog.

While the price may be higher than some other wet food options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the production process justifies the cost. However, some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the stew, so it may not be the best option for every dog. Additionally, the packaging may be too small for larger dogs or for those who require more food per meal.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews, 10.5 Oz(Pack of 6) Turkey, Quinoa -amp; Carrots to anyone who wants to provide their dog with a high-quality, complete and balanced meal made with human-grade ingredients.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best human food for your furry friend, there are several factors to consider. We want to ensure that we are providing our dogs with the best nutrition possible, while also ensuring that the food we choose is safe and healthy for them to consume.

Here are some important features to look for when selecting human food for your dog:

Ingredients

The first thing to consider when selecting human food for your dog is the ingredients. Look for foods that are made with high-quality, whole food ingredients. Avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. It is also important to avoid foods that contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, onions, and garlic.

Nutritional Value

When choosing human food for your dog, it is important to consider the nutritional value of the food. Look for foods that are high in protein and low in fat and carbohydrates. This will help to ensure that your dog is getting the nutrients they need to maintain a healthy weight and a strong immune system.

Portion Size

When feeding your dog human food, it is important to keep portion sizes in mind. Dogs have different caloric needs than humans, so it is important to feed them appropriate portion sizes to avoid overfeeding and weight gain. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion size for your dog.

Preparation

When preparing human food for your dog, it is important to cook it thoroughly to avoid the risk of foodborne illness. Avoid feeding your dog raw or undercooked meat, eggs, or fish. It is also important to avoid foods that are high in salt, sugar, or spices, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

By considering these important factors, you can choose the best human food for your furry friend that will provide them with the nutrition they need to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some safe human foods that I can feed my dog?

There are several human foods that are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. Some examples include cooked chicken, turkey, beef, and fish, as well as fruits such as apples, bananas, and blueberries. Vegetables like carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes are also good options. It’s important to avoid feeding your dog anything that contains onions, garlic, chocolate, caffeine, grapes, raisins, or avocado, as these can be toxic to dogs.

What human foods are beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it’s best to stick to bland, easily digestible foods. Cooked white rice, boiled chicken or turkey, and plain boiled or steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans can be good options. You can also try feeding your dog small amounts of plain, low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese, as these can help with digestion.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving human food to dogs?

One advantage of giving human food to dogs is that it can provide them with a wider variety of nutrients than they might get from their regular dog food. However, it’s important to make sure that any human food you give your dog is safe and healthy for them to eat, and that you don’t overdo it. Feeding your dog too much human food can lead to obesity and other health problems. Additionally, some human foods can be toxic to dogs, so it’s important to be aware of what foods to avoid.

How often is it safe for dogs to consume human food?

It’s generally safe for dogs to consume small amounts of human food as a treat or supplement to their regular dog food. However, it’s important to make sure that the human food you give your dog is safe and healthy for them to eat, and that you don’t overdo it. As a general rule, human food should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s total diet.

What are some healthy homemade food options for dogs?

If you’re interested in making your own dog food at home, there are several healthy options you can try. Cooked chicken, turkey, beef, or fish can be combined with cooked brown rice, quinoa, or sweet potatoes to create a balanced meal. You can also add in cooked vegetables like carrots, green beans, or peas. It’s important to talk to your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.

What human foods are strictly off-limits for dogs?

There are several human foods that are toxic to dogs and should be avoided at all costs. These include chocolate, caffeine, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and avocado. Additionally, foods that are high in fat or salt can cause digestive upset or even pancreatitis in dogs. It’s always best to stick to dog food and treats that are specifically formulated for your dog’s nutritional needs.