Before I begin with the list it’s important you actually read this post carefully and not just skim headlines of which foods are safe because it’s not that simple with some of these items. So if you plan on feeding your dog any of these items please make sure to read carefully.
The reason for this article isn’t just to show you that your dog is capable of eating these foods without getting harmed, it’s that these foods are actually nutritionally beneficial for your dog and we don’t want them to miss out!
Avocados
This is one that actually surprised me. I’ve always thought avocados were a big no-no but I was happily surprised to find out that I could share this fruit with my pups. The reason people advise against avocados is because of a toxin called persin which is quite dangerous for a few animals but in small quantities it is safe for dogs. Avocados carry the biggest concentration of persin in their pits, leaves and skin; the flesh contains very low amounts of this chemical. So as long as you’re feeding your pups ripe avocado flesh, they should be perfectly fine.
As with most things it’s best in moderation. Giving your dog too much avocado can cause an upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhea. One avocado a day should be fine for a medium sized dog. They contain a variety of vitamins and minerals as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Avocados are great for bone health, skin, coat and eyesight.
Avocado flesh is safe, but make sure not to feed skin or pit.
Cheese/Yogurt
I’ve heard many people say that dogs are lactose intolerant and while this can be true, not all dogs are! Just like humans, some dogs have the ability to digest dairy while others don’t. My dogs are not, in fact “Labneh” is one of their favorite treats. However if you feed your pup dairy and they experience any issues such as loose stools or an upset stomach they are lactose intolerant and you should not feed them any dairy.
Fermented dairy like yogurt, kefir and goat’s milk are all great probiotics which is great for your dogs gut health. You can add these to their meals, use them as Kong stuffing or just give it to them as a treat. (Make sure the yogurt doesn’t have any added sweeteners)
Some dogs are lactose intolerant while others can enjoy Dairy.
Garlic
This is one of the biggest misconceptions because garlic can be very beneficial in so many ways! The reason people believe that garlic is bad for their dogs is because it contains thiosulphate which can cause hemolytic anemia. This type of anemia damages red blood cells and can lead to sickness or even death. Symptoms of hemolytic anemia can include loss of appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, pale gums and dark urine. But avoiding this is very simple, just feed garlic fresh and in the right amount. The benefits of garlic are many; It prevents the formation of blood clots, decreases cholesterol build up, acts as a natural flea and tick repellant and so much more (I’m going to have to write a post about Garlic alone, it deserves one!).
It is recommended to feed 1/3 a teaspoon of garlic per 5kgs of bodyweight. You can add the garlic to your pups meal every other week or feed twice a week. It’s important that you chop or crush the cloves and let them sit for a few minutes so that the enzyme alliinase combines with alliin to form allicin which is responsible for the antifungal, antibiotic and antiparasitic properties. I usually feed my pups garlic during fall and spring instead of giving them tick repellant.
Garlic is great for dogs in so many ways but make sure to feed responsibly.
Mushrooms
I left this for last because it gets a little complicated. Yes some mushrooms are toxic to dogs, very toxic, but others are used medicinally. Toxic mushrooms include: death cap, jeweled death cap, autumn galerina, ivory funnel and many more. To be safe just assume that any mushroom found out in nature can be toxic because it’s very hard to differentiate and tell them apart.
As for the mushrooms your dogs can eat, make sure you cook/dehydrate them because raw mushrooms are hard to digest and may even be toxic. Some examples of safe mushrooms are white buttons, cremini, turkey tail, lion’s mane, shiitake and a few more. The benefits of mushrooms are many and they depend on the kind. Some of these benefits are that they boost gut health, help fight and prevent cancer, boost immunity, fight viruses, and reduce inflammation. If you want to feed your dog any of these remember to cook them or even make mushroom broth out of them, do NOT feed them to your dog raw.
Only feed safe mushrooms that are cooked or dehydrated.
Many things in nature are toxic if used in the wrong way that’s why it’s important for us to learn about all the different foods and how we can reap their benefits. If you find yourself unable to follow the guidelines of using any of these food correctly or you don’t have the time to prepare them the right way than just don’t feed them to your dogs.