10 Healthy Snacks You Can Share with Your Dog

You know how it goes—you’re eating something and your dog suddenly seems interested in your plate, and you begin to wonder if it’d be safe to share a sliver of whatever you’re having with your furry baby (side note: never offer your dog anything directly from your plate, that’s how food begging begins). That being said, some of the foods we regularly consume can make for healthy snacks for dogs as well. In this article, let’s discover 10 such nutritional human snacks safe for dogs.   

Healthy Snacks You Can Share with Your Dog

Any pet parent worth their salt knows the big five—onions, grapes, raisins, chocolate, avocados—foods that are extremely toxic to dogs. But do you know which food items from your kitchen can make for healthy dog treats? Let’s take a look at top 10 safe human foods for dogs that are a healthier alternative to any packaged treats you can lay your hands on:   

1. Carrot sticks

Crunchy, sweet, and packed with beta-carotene, carrots are among the best dog-friendly human foods. Not only do they make a great low-calorie snack but chewing on carrots can also help with your dog’s oral hygiene and dental health. Dr. Sarah Wooten, a veterinarian, explains, “Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which supports skin, coat, and eye health in dogs, just like in humans.” 

You can offer a carrot as it is (especially if you’re also looking at using it to help keep your dog’s teeth clean). For puppies or smaller breeds, however, it’s better to slice carrots into smaller pieces or bite-sized chunks to avoid risk of choking. 

Suggested Reading: 8 Best Dog Foods for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs

2. Apple slices (no seeds)

Apples are like nature’s candy—sweet, hydrating, and full of fiber. For dogs, they’re a source of vitamins A and C, which support a shiny coat and a strong immune system. If you’re looking for healthy snacks you can share with your dog, a few slices of apple can do the trick, particularly when you’re on a long road trip or out on a hike. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core, as they contain trace amounts of cyanide. 

Pro tip: Frozen apple slices make a great summer treat that most dogs go bananas over!

3. Peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol)

Everyone loves peanut butter, and dogs are no exception. However, if you’re wondering if your dog can eat peanut butter, the answer is a little more complex that a simple yes or no. While peanuts and peanut butter are among the safe human foods for dogs, the packaged variants often contain salt and xylitol, both of which can be harmful to your pet. So, if you want to give your pet a scoop of peanut butter as a treat, make sure it’s unsalted and does not contain xylitol. Or better still, churn some at home for you and your furry baby. 

Canine nutritionist Jenna Stregowski says, “It’s important to check the label for xylitol, as even small amounts can be toxic to dogs.” Without these two ingredients, peanut butter is a rich source of healthy fats and protein for your dog. You can spread some on a slice of apple or a carrot stick, use it as a filling in interactive dog toys, or offer it as a frozen treat.

Suggested Reading: Can Dogs Eat Almonds?

4. Blueberries

These tiny superfoods packed with antioxidants and vitamin C are one of the best low-calorie snacks for dogs and humans. They’re a natural immunity booster for you and your pup. Research from the University of Alaska found that the antioxidants in blueberries can support cognitive health in older dogs. You can give them a handful as a treat or use them as a topping on your dog’s meals. Soft, bite-sized, and easy to eat, blueberries are loved by dogs.

5. Cooked sweet potato

When thinking of natural treats for dogs you can eat too, you cannot miss out on sweet potatoes. These are a nutrient powerhouse, loaded with dietary fiber, vitamin B6, and manganese. For dogs, they’re a gentle-on-the-stomach option that can also help regulate digestion. Steam or bake them (without salt and spices, of course), cut them into small chunks, and offer it to your pet as a treat or a meal topping. Your dog will wag their tail for this sweet, chewy treat.

6. Plain Popcorn (No butter or salt)

Preparing popcorn for movie night and your dog’s going crazy over the smell? Well, can you blame them! The good news is that this is another treat you and your pet can share. This is one of those nutrient-dense low-calorie snacks for dogs and humans that satisfies crunch cravings. 

Dr. Susan Jeffrey points out, “Popcorn contains small amounts of magnesium and zinc, which are beneficial for your dog’s overall health.” Just make sure that theirs is prepared without butter or salt and there are no unpopped kernels, which can be a choking hazard. 

7. Watermelon

Can you think of a better summer treat than popcorn? Refreshing and hydrating, with 92% water content, this fruit is the divine answer to beat the heat. Not just for you, but also for your dog. Apart from supporting hydration on hot days, it is also packed with micronutrients like vitamins A, B6, and C. One of the most healthy snacks for dogs you can think of. Just cut up a few slices and offer it to your pet, and let them slurp away.  

Suggested Reading: Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit?

8. Green beans

Crunchy green beans are also among the healthy snacks for dogs, thanks to their low-calorie, high-fiber composition. Veterinary nutritionist Dr. Lisa Freeman says, “Green beans are an excellent treat for dogs who need to watch their weight, as they’re filling and low in calories.” You can offer them fresh, steamed, or in frozen form, depending what your dog prefers the most. 

9. Pumpkin (plain and unsweetened)

Is pumpkin good for dogs? Without a doubt, yes. Canned or fresh pumpkin is believed to be an elixir for canine gut health and also proves effective in dealing with digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation. Besides, its rich fiber content and beta-carotene make it an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. You can offer a spoonful as a treat, make a frozen treat out of pureed pumpkin, or simply use it as a topping on your dog’s meals. Just make sure that the pumpkin is unsweetened and do not give your pet pumpkin pie mix—the added sugar and spices can cause them digestive distress.

10. Cucumbers

Light, hydrating, and super crunchy, cucumbers are among the best dog-friendly snacks, especially on hot summer days. They’re loaded with micronutrients like vitamins K and B1, and potassium, and are incredibly low in calories. Slice them into thin rounds or spears, or offer them whole (only when you’re sure it won’t be a choking hazard for your pet), and watch your furry baby enjoy the refreshing crunch. 

Pro tip: You can even carry frozen cucumber slices on summer walks or long hikes, and offer them as a treat when your pet needs some hydration. 

Suggested Reading: 7 Common Myths About Dog Nutrition You Need to Stop Believing

FAQs 

1. Can these snacks replace regular dog food?
   

While these foods make for healthy dog treats, they cannot replace your dog’s regular food. Your dog needs a balanced diet with all the essential nutrients to stay healthy. While snacks like carrots or blueberries are nutritious, they don’t have the nutritional profile your pet needs. Think of these snacks as supplements to your dog’s main diet, not a substitute.

2. How much of these snacks can I give my dog?
   

The amount depends on your dog’s size, weight, and activity level. As a general rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. For smaller dogs, a couple of carrot sticks or a handful of blueberries is plenty. Larger breeds can handle slightly more, but moderation is key. Overfeeding snacks can lead to weight gain or upset stomachs. When in doubt, offer a small portion first and observe your dog’s reaction.

3. Should I consult a vet before introducing new snacks?

It’s always a good idea to consult your vet before introducing new snacks, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or food allergies. For example, dogs with diabetes or kidney issues may need to avoid certain fruits or vegetables. A vet can guide you on safe portion sizes and ensure the treat is appropriate for your dog’s diet, enabling you to make informed choices about your pet’s health and nutrition.

Takeaway

We, pet parents, are always on the lookout for safe human foods for dogs because sharing snacks is a great way to foster your connection with your pet and build trust. As Dr. Wooten says, “Snacking with your dog can be healthy and enjoyable as long as you choose the right foods. Stick to dog-safe options, and you’ll both reap the benefits.” 

It’s vital to not go overboard. Just because you now have a long list of healthy dog treats, doesn’t mean you don’t need to be mindful of how much of these you feed your pet. Make sure you restrict treats and snacks to under 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. When introducing a new snack, start small and see how your pet responds—watch for any signs of allergies or digestive distress.