If you have a habit of feeding your dog scraps from the dinner table, you’re not alone. Many pet owners do this because they just can’t resist the puppy dog eyes.
It’s also fun to share meal times with the whole family. Table scraps are harmless treats, right? But when you ask experts, “Are table scraps bad for dogs?” They will answer with an unequivocal yes.
Why Feeding Your Dog Table Scraps Can Be Dangerous
Dogs have different nutritional needs than humans; feeding them human food can upset their digestive system.
Think about what you eat every day. The most delicious meals for humans often contain high fat, salt, and sugar levels. Feeding even bits and pieces to your dog can lead to adverse reactions and long-term health issues.
One of the biggest dangers of feeding your dog table scraps is the risk of pancreatitis. The enzymes in the pancreas cause inflammation, damaging the organ and causing extreme pain. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, and overall weakness. A high-fat diet and overeating are two of the major causes of this condition.
Overeating can also lead to stomach swelling in dogs which is a symptom of other conditions such as gastric dilation and peritonitis.
“The high-calorie, high-fat foods we take such pleasure in are some of the worst foods for our pets. Just one generous helping of a fat-laden meal or seemingly innocent leftovers can have serious impacts on your dog’s health,” says Dr. Monica Tarantino from the Veterinary Medical Center of Fort Mill
Another danger of feeding your dog table scraps is the risk of choking or gastrointestinal obstruction. Eating something that its body cannot digest properly can lead to blockages in the digestive system. An obstruction may become life-threatening, and only surgery can correct it.
Behavioural Issues
In addition to these serious health risks, regularly feeding your dog table scraps can lead to behavioural problems. Dogs who are fed table scraps often become beggars at the table, which can be annoying and disruptive to family meals. They may even become picky with their own food and refuse to eat anything that doesn’t come from the dinner table.
Overall, feeding your dog table scraps is not recommended. It can lead to physical and behavioural issues that may be difficult to reverse.
Instead, instil discipline in your dog. Feed it a balanced diet that contains all the nutrients it needs to remain happy and healthy. And if you want to give it treats, don’t take them from the meals that the human members of your family share. Stock up on healthy treats that you can dole out occasionally.
Common Table Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs
Some foods and ingredients are more dangerous for dogs than others.
Here are a few common human foods that you should never feed your dog:
- Milk and other milk-based products – Dairy can cause digestive issues and allergic reactions in dogs
- Chocolate – Its main ingredient is theobromine, a compound that can cause serious digestive issues or even death if dogs ingest high amounts.
- Uncooked food – Raw eggs, meat, and fish contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning in dogs.
- Grapes – The toxic substance in grapes and raisins is not yet known, but grape toxicity can cause renal failure.
- Caffeine – Coffee, tea, coffee grounds, energy drinks, soda, and other products that contain any amount of caffeine lead to extreme reactions in dogs’ nervous and digestive systems.
- Onion, garlic, and other alliums – All parts of these plants (flesh, leaves, even powders) cause serious gastrointestinal issues and damage red blood cells in dogs.
- Alcohol – Dogs’ bodies cannot metabolize alcohol; even the smallest amount can lead to disorientation, vomiting, respiratory distress, and even death.
“It is safest to ignore those begging eyes and paws and stick to a healthy bowl of kibble. If you would like to introduce some new foods to your pup’s diet, always check with your veterinarian first,” says Dr. Sandra Mitchell of All Creatures Veterinary Services
What Table Foods Can Dogs Eat?
Are table scraps bad for dogs? Unequivocally, yes. But while there are many human foods that dogs should avoid, some are healthy and safe for them to eat.
Here are a few examples:
- Lean meats – Chicken, turkey, and beef can be excellent protein sources for dogs. Remove any bones before serving them to your pet.
- Vegetables – Carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes are all nutritious and low in calories.
- Fruits – Apples, bananas, and blueberries are tasty dog treats, but be sure to remove any seeds or pits. Are dates safe for dogs? Yes, they are harmless treats as long as they are fed in moderation.
How to Break the Habit of Feeding Table Scraps to Your Dog
If your household has gotten into the habit of giving your dog table scraps, it’s time to stop. Here are a few tips to help you mitigate this tendency:
- Set strict rules – Forbid all family members and guests from giving your dog table scraps. There should be no exceptions to the rule.
- Set a strict feeding schedule – Feed your dog at regular intervals so it will not beg for scraps.
- Offer healthy alternatives – Give your dog healthy treats, like carrots or apple slices.
- Leverage positive reinforcement – Reward your dog with praise and treats when it eats its own food and does not beg at the table.
Conclusion
Sharing food with your pet may seem fun and harmless—surely, occasional treats won’t harm them.
Are table scraps bad for dogs? Yes. Human food rich in fats, salts, and sugar can lead to serious health issues in dogs. Many of the delicious foods that we consume without a second thought (chocolate, coffee, grapes, ice cream, heavily seasoned foods) are toxic to domestic animals, even in the smallest amounts.
Stick to food that is specifically formulated for dogs—ones that contain all the nutrients they need. Contact your veterinarian to discuss the best possible diet for your pet.
