The Best Human Food for Dogs: 13 Nutritious Snacks Your Pup Will Love

Our furry friends are more than just pets—they’re beloved members of our families. We shower them with love, spoil them with cozy sweaters in the winter, and make sure they have the best toys and treats. When it comes to food, we want to ensure they’re getting the healthiest options. While most dog owners know that chocolate and grapes are off-limits, it raises the question: Which human foods are actually beneficial for our dogs? The good news is that several nutritious human foods for dogs can provide valuable health benefits. To help you make the best choices, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite dog-friendly foods that are both safe and nutritious.

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Coconut

This tropical fruit contains lauric acid, which boosts the immune system. It’ll also work wonders on bad breath and clear up itchy skin. Just remember, the outside shell of the coconut is unsafe for dogs—it’s a potential choking hazard.

Honey

Exposing your pup to small amounts of honey—which contains pollen—builds immunity to allergens in your area. Honey is also packed with a ton of antioxidants like Vitamins B, C, and D.

Peanut Butter

If you’ve ever had a reluctant dog, you’ve probably done the trick where you wrap a pill in peanut butter. But did you know that it contains healthy-heart fats and is rich in protein? Beware of additives like sugar-substitute xylitol, which can be toxic for dogs. Raw peanut butter is safest.

Popcorn

Your favorite movie snack can be your dog’s, too. Popcorn contains riboflavin and thiamine, which promote eye health and digestion in dogs. If you drop a piece or two while munching, don’t worry. But if you plan on giving your dog more than a bite or two, make sure the popcorn is air-popped and plain—no salt or butter, which can cause intestinal problems—and remove any unpopped kernels.

Yogurt

Finished with your yogurt? If it’s free of added sugars (natural or artificial), then it’s totally okay to let your pup lick the container. Yogurt contains probiotics, which are good for your dog’s immune system. Some dogs are lactose intolerant, so be mindful if your dog has trouble digesting it.

Carrots

Crunching on carrots is good for your dog’s teeth. Plus, they’re high in fiber and low in calories—a suitable snack for dogs on a diet!

Pumpkin

If your dog is having digestive issues, try pumpkin. It’s an excellent source of fiber and helps keep the GI tract moving. Bonus: pumpkin also contains beta-carotene/Vitamin A, which promotes healthy skin and strong eyes.

Apple Slices

A healthy snack that also freshens your dog’s breath? Yes, please! Apple slices help clean residue off of a dog’s teeth. They’re also a great source of fiber. Make sure you don’t feed your pup the seeds or core, because those are a choking hazard.

Oatmeal

Does your dog have a wheat allergy? Oatmeal is a great alternative grain. It’s an excellent source of soluble fiber, which helps with bowel irregularity. Just remember, the oatmeal should be cooked before feeding it to your dog.

Green Beans

These green veggies are perfect for dogs on a diet. Green beans are low in calories and super filling. Stave off the sodium with no-salt green beans.

Blueberries

Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and Vitamin C, blueberries make an excellent, low-calorie treat for dogs. They support brain health and may even help slow aging-related issues in older dogs.

Sweet Potatoes

A great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, sweet potatoes provide digestive support and help regulate blood sugar levels. Serve them cooked and unseasoned for a nutritious dog-friendly snack.

Salmon

Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports a dog’s coat, skin health, and immune system. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and remove any bones before serving.

While these foods are healthy options, it’s important to monitor your dog’s reactions. Introduce new foods gradually and in moderation. If your dog experiences any signs of an allergic reaction or digestive issues, consult your veterinarian right away.