7 Everyday Foods to NEVER Feed Your Dog & What to Give Instead

We always want to give our dogs the best, especially when it comes to their diet. But did you know some common foods can actually harm their gut health and lead to long-term digestive issues? In this article, I’ll walk you through the foods you should absolutely avoid and share the top 7 gut-friendly human foods you can safely give your dog. It’s time to make smarter choices for your pet’s digestive health—because a happy gut means a happier pup! Plus, I’ll also recommend some of my favorite supplements to boost your dog’s health even further. Let’s dive in!

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7 Everyday Foods to NEVER Feed Your Dog & What to Give Instead

It’s crucial to understand what foods are best for your dog’s health—especially when it comes to their gut. Just like us, dogs can suffer from digestive issues, and the foods they consume can either heal or harm their intestinal tract. Many foods, particularly those that alter the gut microbiome, can lead to chronic issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort. Let’s dive into the foods you should avoid and the healing alternatives you can give instead.

Foods to Avoid for a Healthy Gut

1. High-Fat Foods (like Bacon)

Bacon is a common treat for dogs, but it’s one of the worst foods you can give them. High-fat foods can cause serious issues like pancreatitis, where the pancreas is overworked trying to digest the fat. This leads to inflammation and can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Stick to lean meats and avoid giving your dog fatty scraps.

2. Citrus and Acidic Foods

If your dog suffers from acid reflux, you should avoid giving them highly acidic foods like lemons or apple cider vinegar (ACV). While some believe ACV can boost metabolism, it can worsen acid reflux by increasing stomach acidity. Always opt for alkalizing foods like ginger or bananas to help balance stomach acids.

3. Highly Processed Foods

Most commercial kibbles are made with highly processed ingredients that can irritate the gut. They often contain unnatural preservatives, artificial colors, and low-quality carbohydrates like corn, which is difficult for many dogs to digest. Always check the ingredients and look for high-quality, minimally processed food.

4. Legumes (especially Peas)

Legumes, such as peas, contain phytates, which are hard for dogs to digest and can lead to bloating and gas. Additionally, there’s some concern about the high level of peas in dog food being linked to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a heart condition. Avoid dog foods with a high percentage of legumes.

5. Dairy (especially for Lactose-Intolerant Dogs)

While some dogs can tolerate dairy, many are lactose intolerant, which can lead to digestive upset. If your dog shows signs of discomfort after consuming dairy, such as diarrhea or bloating, it’s best to avoid it. Instead, focus on safe, nutritious alternatives like plain, unsweetened yogurt.

7 Gut-Healing Human Foods You Can Give Your Dog

Now, let’s talk about the top foods that are great for supporting your dog’s digestive health:

1. Honey

Honey is a natural prebiotic that helps support beneficial gut bacteria. It also contains the enzyme amylase, which aids in breaking down carbohydrates. Honey can soothe inflammation in the gut and is great for your dog’s immune system. Feed as little as 1/4 tsp per 10–20 lbs of body weight daily.

2. Ginger

Ginger is fantastic for soothing an upset stomach. It’s alkalizing and can help with acid reflux, nausea, and digestion. Ginger contains protease, an enzyme that breaks down protein. You can easily add 1 tsp of ginger to your dog’s water, or mix it with honey for extra flavor.

3. Bananas & Apples

Both bananas and apples are great sources of digestive enzymes like amylase, and they help with gut inflammation. Bananas are particularly good for dogs with acid reflux due to their alkaline nature. 1/4 banana per 20 lbs of body weight is a good portion to start with. Apples, with their high fiber content, help with constipation and can act as a prebiotic.

4. Cucumbers & Kale

Cucumbers are a great way to provide moisture to your dog’s gut, helping to dilute excess stomach acid and providing relief for acid reflux. Kale is an excellent source of fiber and flavonoids, promoting healthy gut bacteria. A small amount of chopped kale (1 tsp per 10 lbs) mixed into your dog’s food can go a long way.

5. Unsweetened Natural Yogurt

Plain, unsweetened yogurt is a rich source of probiotics like lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, which are excellent for your dog’s gut health. Adding a teaspoon of yogurt to your dog’s meal can help with diarrhea, yeast infections, and overall digestive health.

6. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and act as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. They also contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help soothe gut inflammation. Feed about 1 tbsp per 20 lbs of body weight daily.

7. Flax Seeds

Ground flax seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, both of which support healthy digestion. Flax is great for dogs with anal gland problems and can help with regular bowel movements. Add 1/4 tsp per cup of food to help with digestion and inflammation.

Bonus: Canned Pumpkin

Pumpkin is one of the best foods for your dog’s gut health. It’s high in fiber and can help with both constipation and diarrhea. Just a tablespoon of canned pumpkin for 20 pounds of body weight can keep things moving smoothly in the digestive tract.

Wrap Up: Support Your Dog’s Gut with the Right Foods

By avoiding harmful foods and incorporating gut-friendly human foods into your dog’s diet, you can greatly improve their digestive health. Remember, what goes into your pet’s body matters for their overall well-being.

For long-term gut health, I also recommend Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Canine Advanced Plus Health Formula. It’s packed with Omega 3 fatty acids, probiotics, and curcuminoids to support your dog’s gut, joints, skin, and overall wellness. It’s a comprehensive supplement that helps ensure your dog feels their best, from the inside out.

For cats, check out Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Feline Health Formula. This non-GMO, gluten-free supplement supports digestive health, alleviates symptoms of aging, and promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Let’s make sure your pet has the best possible diet for a happy, healthy life!