Best Human Foods for Dogs: Safe and Healthy Options for Your Canine Companion

Dogs are a beloved part of many families, and as such, we want to give them the best possible care. One way to show our furry friends love is by sharing our food with them. However, not all human foods are safe for dogs to consume. In this article, we will explore the best human foods for dogs and what to look for when choosing them.

When it comes to feeding our dogs human food, it’s important to choose foods that are not only safe but also beneficial to their health. Some human foods can cause digestive issues, while others can provide essential nutrients that dogs need. We will be focusing on the latter, highlighting the human foods that can provide health benefits to our canine companions.

When selecting human foods for dogs, it’s crucial to pay attention to the ingredients. Some human foods contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions. It’s essential to avoid these foods entirely to prevent any harm to your dog. Additionally, some human foods are high in fat and can cause digestive issues or even pancreatitis in dogs. We will be focusing on human foods that are safe for dogs to consume in moderation and provide health benefits.

We spent hours researching and testing various human foods to identify the best options for dogs. In the following sections, we will highlight the human foods that are not only safe but also provide health benefits for our furry friends.

Best Human Foods for Dogs

As dog owners, we know how important it is to provide our furry friends with the best possible nutrition. While dog food is specifically formulated to meet their dietary needs, it doesn’t hurt to supplement their diet with some human foods. However, not all human foods are safe for dogs to consume. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best human foods for dogs that are not only safe but also provide additional health benefits. Check out our top picks below!

Portland Pet Food Company Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch

If you’re looking for a healthy and convenient option for your dog’s meals, we highly recommend the Portland Pet Food Company Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch.

Pros

• Crafted with premium, fresh ingredients that are all-natural and certified human-grade.
• Gluten-free, wheat-free, and grain-free options make it a great natural choice for sensitive dogs.
• Convenient and easy to serve, with no thawing or adding water required.

Cons

• The texture can be too soupy for small dogs to eat comfortably.
• Some customers find it to be on the pricier side.
• One customer reported their puppy getting ill after trying the chicken meal.

This wholesome dog food is perfect for wellness, picky or senior dogs. It’s made for all life stages, from puppy and adult to senior dogs, large breed and small breeds. You can use it as a supplemental meal, combine it with dry dog food as a mixer, or as dog food toppers to entice picky dogs with a tasty boost of whole nutrition. It can also be used as a healthy dog treat or as small breed dog food.

The generous 9-ounce pouch is nearly triple the size of typical dog food toppers, and each variety pack of five pouches allows your dog to sample all the flavors, like turkey, pork, salmon, and beef. Additionally, the Portland Pet Food Company donates 5% of their net profits to local non-profit animal shelters and programs, so you can feel good about every part of your healthy dog food purchase.

Overall, we highly recommend the Portland Pet Food Company Human-Grade Wet Dog Food Pouch for a convenient and healthy option for your furry friend.

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

If you’re looking for a high-quality, human-grade food for your furry friend, The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Whole Grain Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• This recipe is made with wholesome, human-grade ingredients like free-range chicken, organic oats, carrots, and bananas.
• It’s produced in a human food facility where the whole food ingredients are gently dehydrated for maximum flavor, nutrient retention, and digestion.
• The recipe is suitable for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds and sizes, including large breed puppies, as well as adult mothers (gestation/lactation).

Cons

• It’s a bit pricey compared to some other dog food options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The food expands significantly when water is added, so it can be challenging to store.

We’ve been using The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Whole Grain Dog Food for several months now, and our dog loves it. The recipe is easy to prepare – simply add warm water, wait three minutes, and serve for a fresh, wholesome, and delicious meal. We appreciate that the recipe contains no preservatives, by-products, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy.

One of the things we love most about this recipe is that it’s made with human-grade ingredients. We feel good about feeding it to our dog because we know that we’re giving him the same quality and safety standards as people food. The recipe is also complete and balanced, providing our dog with all the nutrition he needs to thrive.

However, we do acknowledge that the recipe is a bit pricey compared to some other dog food options on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, and it can be challenging to store because it expands significantly when water is added.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Whole Grain Dog Food if you’re looking for a high-quality, human-grade food for your furry friend. It’s a bit pricey, but the quality ingredients and complete nutrition make it worth the investment.

Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that’s made with human-grade ingredients, Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Made with cage-free chicken and other real ingredients like spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes
• Contains probiotics for easier digestibility
• Instant prep makes feeding on the go easier

Cons

• Can get quite congealed and gummy when rehydrated
• May not have enough chunks for some dogs
• Some dogs may take a while to get used to the taste and texture

We’ve been using Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food for a few months now, and we’re really impressed with the quality of the ingredients. We love that it’s made with cage-free chicken and other real ingredients like spinach, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Plus, it contains probiotics for easier digestibility.

One of the things we really appreciate about this dog food is how easy it is to prepare. All you need to do is add water and stir, and you’re good to go. This makes it a great option for busy pet owners who are always on the go.

While we’ve been really happy with this dog food overall, we have noticed that it can get quite congealed and gummy when rehydrated. Additionally, some dogs may not like the texture, as it doesn’t have as many chunks as some other dog foods. However, with a little patience and encouragement, most dogs will come to love this food.

Overall, we highly recommend Spot Farms Natural Chicken Dehydrated Dog Food for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food that’s made with human-grade ingredients.

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 topper, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack is a great option.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck
• Can be mixed in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor
• 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 food options
• Some customers reported issues with clumping
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies

We recently tried Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack for our dog as a mix-in topper for her dry dog food. We were impressed with the simple and natural ingredient list and appreciated that it didn’t contain any artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. Our dog seemed to really enjoy the added flavor and we noticed that she finished her meals more quickly when we used this product.

However, we did find that this product was more expensive compared to other wet dog food options and that it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies. Additionally, we experienced some clumping issues when we shook the product before adding it to our dog’s food.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality and natural dog food topper, Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack is definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind that it may not be the most budget-friendly option and that it may not be suitable for all dogs.

Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers

We highly recommend this product for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a healthy and tasty meal topper or treat.

Pros

• The high protein content from real beef supports muscle growth and immune system function.
• This dog food topper is easy to use and great for picky eaters, making it a perfect addition to their favorite wet or dry food.
• Unlike other dehydrated dog food meal toppers, this recipe features a high-quality blend of vitamins, proteins, and other ingredients that support gut and immune system for pets.

Cons

• Some dogs may find the texture of the food too hard to chew.
• It is a bit pricey compared to other dog food toppers.
• The package size may not be enough for larger dogs.

Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers are made with high-quality ingredients that support canine digestive health, immune system function, and nutrient absorption for your pet. We found that this product is perfect for picky eaters, and it is easy to use as a complete meal, dog treats, or as dog food additives. We also appreciate that it is made with real beef protein, which provides a healthy source of premium beef to give small, medium, and large sized dogs dog food add ins with protein support.

The nutrient-boost formula of this dog food topper keeps your dog feeling nourished, and it supports their health. The recipe features a high-quality blend of vitamins, proteins, and other ingredients that support gut and immune system for pets. However, some dogs may find the texture of the food too hard to chew, and the package size may not be enough for larger dogs. Additionally, it is a bit pricey compared to other dog food toppers.

Overall, Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers are a great choice for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a healthy and tasty meal topper or treat. The product is made with real beef protein, which provides a healthy source of premium beef to give small, medium, and large sized dogs dog food add ins with protein support.

Weruva Meals ‘n More Natural Wet Dog Food, Paw Lickin’ Chicken Plus Skin -amp; Coat Health

If you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food that provides healthy hydration, high-quality protein, and variety, then Weruva Meals ‘n More Natural Wet Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The Paw Lickin’ Chicken Recipe Plus provides added skin and coat benefits with boneless, skinless, white-meat chicken, quinoa, flaxseed, and pumpkin.
• The food is all-natural and free of grains, gluten, carrageenan, wheat, corn, soy, artificial colors, and preservatives.
• Weruva is a family-owned company that produces its food in human food facilities under the strictest BRCGS global standards.

Cons

• The food is more expensive than some other wet dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the texture or taste of the food.
• The cups are relatively small, so you may need to purchase more than one if you have a larger dog.

We’ve been using Weruva Meals ‘n More Natural Wet Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been very happy with it. Our dog loves the Paw Lickin’ Chicken Recipe Plus, and we’ve noticed that his coat looks shinier and healthier since we switched to this food.

One thing we appreciate about Weruva is that they use responsibly sourced ingredients and produce their food in human food facilities. We feel good about feeding our dog a high-quality food that is made with the same care and attention as human food.

The only downside to this food is that it is more expensive than some other wet dog foods on the market. However, we feel that the added cost is worth it for the quality of the food and the health benefits it provides.

Overall, we highly recommend Weruva Meals ‘n More Natural Wet Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality wet food option for their dog.

Weruva Classic Dog Food, Let’s Give Em’ Pumpkin to Talk About Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that features pumpkin, then the Weruva Classic Dog Food, Let’s Give Em’ Pumpkin to Talk About Variety Pack is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This dog food is made with quality ingredients that are minimally processed and free of grains, gluten, GMO, and carrageenan.
• The variety pack includes six of Weruva’s best-selling flavors, all of which feature fiber-rich pumpkin.
• Produced in human food facilities under the strictest B.R.C. Global Standards for Foods.

Cons

• This formula is designed for adult maintenance only, so it may not be suitable for puppies or senior dogs.
• Some customers may find this dog food to be a bit expensive compared to other options on the market.
• While many dogs love the taste of this food, some picky eaters may not be as enthusiastic.

We recently tried out the Weruva Classic Dog Food, Let’s Give Em’ Pumpkin to Talk About Variety Pack with our own dogs, and we were pleased with the results. The quality of the ingredients is evident, and we appreciated the fact that the food is free of grains, gluten, and other common allergens.

Our dogs seemed to enjoy the flavor of the food, particularly the pumpkin, which is a great source of fiber that can help with gut motility. We also liked that the variety pack includes six different flavors, which helps to keep things interesting for our dogs.

While the cost of this dog food may be a bit higher than some other options on the market, we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price. Overall, we would recommend the Weruva Classic Dog Food, Let’s Give Em’ Pumpkin to Talk About Variety Pack to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that features pumpkin.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food, Lamb and Bison Recipe, Grain Free, Real Meat, No Fillers, 40lb Bag

If you want to give your dog a healthy, grain-free diet, then I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. This recipe is packed with protein and contains no fillers, making it a nutritious meal for your furry friend.

Pros

• The meat is the #1 ingredient, providing your dog with the protein they need to maintain lean muscle mass.
• This kibble is rich in protein, with 25% more protein than BLUE Buffalo Life Protection—Adult, which helps boost your dog’s energy.
• The pre and probiotics in this recipe help promote easy digestion and ensure your pet’s gut is in good shape.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the lamb and bison recipe.
• This kibble is relatively expensive compared to other brands.
• The large 40-pound bag may be challenging to store in small spaces.

We recently tried this dog food for our furry friend, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The meat is the #1 ingredient, and there are no fillers like rice, corn, or white potatoes. We noticed that our dog had more energy after switching to this kibble, and their coat looked shinier and healthier.

One of the things we appreciated about this recipe is that it’s grain-free, which is essential if your dog has a grain allergy. Additionally, the pre and probiotics in this recipe help promote easy digestion and ensure your pet’s gut is in good shape.

However, some dogs may not like the taste of the lamb and bison recipe. It’s also relatively expensive compared to other brands, so it may not be suitable for those on a tight budget. Lastly, the large 40-pound bag may be challenging to store in small spaces.

Overall, we think I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for pet owners who want to give their furry friend a healthy, nutritious meal. We highly recommend this recipe for those looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food.

JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Topper Starter Pack

If you’re looking for a fresh dog food starter pack, the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Topper Starter Pack is an excellent option.

Pros

• The dog food is made with fresh whole foods that are gently cooked for optimal nutrient absorption.
• The food is 40% more digestible than kibble, which can lead to better digestion, healthier skin, and a shinier coat.
• The frozen fresh dog food can be used as a full meal or dog food topper for picky eaters.

Cons

• The food can be expensive compared to traditional kibble.
• The food requires refrigeration or freezing, which may not be convenient for all pet owners.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.

We recently tried the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Topper Starter Pack and were impressed with the quality of the food. The food is made with fresh whole foods that are gently cooked for optimal nutrient absorption, which can lead to better digestion, healthier skin, and a shinier coat. The food is also 40% more digestible than kibble, which can be beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

We appreciated that the frozen fresh dog food can be used as a full meal or dog food topper for picky eaters. The starter pack comes with two different recipes, Turkey -amp; Whole Wheat Macaroni and Beef -amp; Russet Potato, which allowed us to see which recipe our dog preferred. Our dog enjoyed both recipes and had no trouble digesting the food.

One potential downside to the food is that it can be expensive compared to traditional kibble. The food also requires refrigeration or freezing, which may not be convenient for all pet owners. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, although we did not experience this issue with our dog.

Overall, we would recommend the JustFoodForDogs Frozen Fresh Dog Food Topper Starter Pack to pet owners looking for a high-quality, fresh dog food option.

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews

We highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a hearty and healthy meal.

Pros

• Made with human-grade ingredients and produced in a human food facility
• Complete and balanced for puppies and adult dogs of all life stages, breeds, and sizes
• Kettle-cooked in small batches for a chunky texture in a bone broth reduction

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• Pricey compared to other dog foods
• Some customers received hard and dry boxes of food

We have tried The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews on our furry friends and they absolutely loved it. The chunky texture and savory taste of the turkey, quinoa, carrots, broccoli, and sage blend made our dogs excited for mealtime.

We appreciate that this recipe contains no gums, carrageenan, feed grade ingredients, meat meals, fillers, GMO ingredients, artificial flavors, or artificial preservatives. It’s also made in the USA with trusted sources from around the world, ensuring the quality and safety of the ingredients.

The Honest Kitchen’s commitment to using human-grade ingredients and producing their dog food in a human food facility sets them apart from other pet food brands. We trust that our dogs are getting the best nutrition possible with this product.

However, we understand that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this wet dog food. It’s also pricier compared to other dog foods on the market. Some customers have also received hard and dry boxes of food, which may be a quality control issue.

Overall, we highly recommend The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Wet Dog Food – One Pot Stews for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with high-quality and nutritious food.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best human foods for your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you are making a safe and healthy choice for your furry friend.

Firstly, it is important to read the ingredient list carefully. Look for high-quality, whole food ingredients such as lean meats, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives that can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Secondly, consider the nutritional value of the food. Dogs require a balanced diet consisting of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Look for foods that provide a good balance of these nutrients to ensure your dog is getting everything they need to stay healthy.

Thirdly, pay attention to the portion sizes. Just like humans, dogs can overeat and gain weight if they consume too many calories. Make sure to follow the recommended serving size on the packaging and adjust based on your dog’s activity level and individual needs.

When shopping for human foods for your dog, it can be helpful to look for products specifically marketed as safe for dogs. These products have been formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs and are often free from harmful ingredients.

In summary, when choosing human foods for your dog, look for high-quality, whole food ingredients, consider the nutritional value, pay attention to portion sizes, and consider products specifically marketed for dogs. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are making a safe and healthy choice for your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some healthy human food options for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it’s important to choose human foods that are gentle on their digestive system. Some healthy options include cooked chicken, boiled rice, and canned pumpkin. It’s also important to avoid foods that are high in fat or spices, as these can cause stomach upset.

What is considered the healthiest human food to feed dogs?

While there are many healthy human foods that dogs can eat, some of the healthiest options include lean proteins like chicken and fish, as well as fruits and vegetables like blueberries, sweet potatoes, and green beans. It’s important to remember that a balanced diet is key, so be sure to talk to your vet about the best foods to feed your dog.

How can I incorporate human foods into my dog’s diet if they have allergies?

If your dog has allergies, it’s important to work with your vet to identify the specific allergens and avoid them. However, there are still many healthy human foods that dogs with allergies can eat, such as lean proteins like turkey and salmon, and vegetables like carrots and broccoli. Be sure to introduce new foods slowly and in small amounts to avoid any adverse reactions.

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

Feeding your dog human food can have both benefits and drawbacks. On the one hand, it can provide a variety of nutrients and flavors that your dog may enjoy. On the other hand, it can be difficult to ensure that your dog is getting a balanced diet, and some human foods can be harmful to dogs. It’s important to talk to your vet about the best approach for your dog.

Which human foods are safe to give to dogs as occasional treats?

There are many human foods that can be given to dogs as occasional treats, such as small pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, blueberries, and carrots. It’s important to avoid foods that are high in fat or sugar, as these can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

How often is it safe to feed my dog human food without risking their health?

The frequency with which you can feed your dog human food depends on a variety of factors, including their age, weight, and overall health. In general, it’s best to limit human food to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Be sure to talk to your vet about the best approach for your dog.