As pet owners, we all want to ensure that our furry friends are getting the best nutrition possible. But did you know that you can easily supplement your pup's diet with human foods? In this article, find out what are the 12 human foods that can be added to your dog's kibble for added health benefits!
Introduction
We all want what’s best for our furry friends, and when it comes to their food, we’re no different. Just like us, what our dogs eat has a big impact on their overall health. A good way to greatly increase your dog's nutrition and improve their health and quality of life is to male 10% of their daily food fresh. So, if you’re looking to add a little something extra to your dog’s kibble to give them a health boost, here are some human foods that can do the trick!
1. Salmon – This fatty fish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids which can help keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which can be beneficial for dogs with joint problems or allergies. A great snack for them are these conveniently dehydrated salmon skins.
2. Blueberries – These little berries are full of antioxidants (antioxidants fight free radicals that contribute to illness, diabetes, heart disease and cancer) and vitamins that can help boost your dog’s immune system. They’re also known to help improve cognitive function and memory in both humans and dogs!
3. Bone broth - The collagen helps build new connective tissue around your dog's skin and fur, glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid help cushion joints, glycine helps to decrease inflammation and build new tissue in the digestive tract, you will also find calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and glutamine which are required for immune function.
4. Raw egg with the shell membrane is a nutritional powerhouse packing protein, vitamins and minerals along with joint support if you peel the membrane from the shell and give it to your dog.
5. Apples - are excellent sources of antioxidants, vitamins A, C and also fiber. They are low in protein and fat making them a great snack especially for senior dogs. Be sure to remove the seeds and core first.
6. Fermented goat kefir - is an excellent source of probiotics for your dog that promote gut health, fight inflammation and promote health. Gut health plays a very big role in preventing allergies and intolerances in your dog and goat kefir especially is easily digested.
7.Pumpkin - is full of essential nutrients such as Vitamins C, A and E as well as the B vitamins – Niacin, Folates, Thiamine and pantothenic acid. Its also rich in minerals like Calcium, Phosphorous, Potassium and Copper. Pumpkin improves digestion and can reduce anal gland problems.
8. Kale - is an excellent source of the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin. Antioxidants help fight free radicals which cause cancer. Kale also supports vision, colon health and liver detoxification.
9. Decaf green tea - is an excellent source of antioxidants which help fight cancer and also enhances your dog's immune system. Prep the tea in advance and use it to hydrate your dog's kibble. Be sure it is caffein free!
10. White button mushrooms - These are another nutritional powerhouse for your dog. They help prevent heart disease, prevent and battle cancer, reduce blood pressure, boost immune system, lowers cholesterol, helps prevent fatty liver disease, helps stabilize blood sugar and aids metabolism.
11. No sugar Greek yogurt - is high in calcium and protein and the probiotics in it help your dog like goat kefir above. Be sure there is no extra sugar and also be sure there is no xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is poisonous to dogs.
12. Broccoli - is another natural powerhouse including vitamins C, K, and potassium. which work to maintain heart health, bone density and immune system function.
In addition to the fresh food above, it is also healthy to give your dog fresh meat from the store. Things like chicken hearts, chicken and beef liver, frozen sardines, chicken feet, and beef lung among others will make them happy and healthy! Just be sure that you are shooting for the 10% of the kibble rule. They don't need every food every day but rather rotate the types of food every few days for the health benefits.
Conclusion
Finally, when it comes to supplementation, less is usually more. Just because a food is safe for dogs and has some nutritional benefits doesn't mean that your dog needs a lot of it. In most cases, a little goes a long way when it comes to supplementation. So start with small amounts and see how your dog does before increasing the amount you give them.