Table scraps should not be the main source of dietary intake for your dog but may be fed as small treats here and there. Harmful table scraps like chocolate and bones, however, can cause extensive harm and even death to your pet. Digestive problems do occur when dogs eat table scraps that are too rich or that simply do not agree with their stomachs. Be wary of what table scraps you allow your dog to have and never overdo it.

Never feed your dog human food because you have deemed him a “fussy” eater. It is you who made him this way and of course he’s going to gobble it up and love you for it. But in the end you will both pay for it with ill health. Remember who is the boss in this relationship and do what is right for your dog.

Table scraps, fed in small amounts, DO have their good points. There is an enormous difference between good quality leftovers and “scraps”. The quality leftovers are the pieces of steak (trimmed of fat), roast beef, chicken or turkey. Adding this to your dog’s bowl is fine, only when done IN MODERATION. In addition leftover both pasta and rice are good, so long as they are minus the butter or other fatty sauces and are plainly cooked.

Feeding your dog too many “bad” table scraps can cause may problems besides just becoming overweight. Some food, like grapes, can cause pancreatitis which is a serious gastrointestinal problem which can lead to death. It’s kind of hard to believe but in fact, their stomachs are more sensitive than ours.

Some say that dogs should not get any human food, but I don’t agree with that. Of course there are all sorts of commercial products that will provide your pet with all the nutrients they need, an occasional “good” table scrap is great as a special treat. Just be responsible about it.

You should forget, for example, about serving your dog the leftover macaroni and cheese, even though pasta is OK and the cheese is low-fat. Dogs do not have the needed lactose to break up the lactose the result can be diarrhea. Turkey, chicken, steak, or any other kind of cooked bones are no-nos, because they can splinter and pierce or obstruct the dog’s digestive tract.. Bones can also cut the roof of the mouth.

Leftover stew is OK, as long as you first discard the onions, and if your family loves sushi, Fido will have to pass Raw fish can create a thiamine deficiency in dogs. As a result the dog will suffer from seizures and possibly death.

Easily digestible foods such as cooked rice or chicken and turkey (boneless) will be fine to feed your dog. Even some fruits and vegetables are well received by dogs, though there are some types to avoid such as grapes. Feeding your dog grapes causes severe kidney damage. While some fruits are acceptable to feed your pet, avoid grapes at all times.

If your dogs are anything like mine, they have the whole table scrap begging down to a fine art. Be strong and don’t give into their wiley ways. Understand what is good and what constitutes an acceptable amount for your particular pet and stick to it. Never try to save money by feeding them your human diet. If you want to feed them non-commercial food, like a raw diet, learn how to prepare it properly.

Remember, in the end you are not doing them any favors by giving them food that is ultimately harming them. Be strong!

Alex is a freelance graphic artist with a passion for writing and pets. She has a long and personal background with pets and has studied what works and what doesn’t when teaching them. If you liked this article, check out a couple of her others, likeBenefits Of Crate Training Your Puppy or A New Baby Coming? Time To Get Your Dog Ready!.

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