Can Dogs Have Cottage Cheese? Safe Human Foods for Your Pup

Fresh Fruits Dogs Can Enjoy

Many fresh fruits are safe for your dog and can add important nutrients to your pet’s diet. Choosing the right fruits helps support healthy digestion, provides vitamins, and gives dogs a low-calorie snack option.

Apples

• Apples are a healthy snack for most dogs. They offer vitamins A and C, both of which support your dog’s immune system and skin health. Apples are also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps your dog feel full.
• Always remove the seeds and core before giving apples to your dog. Apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be harmful if eaten often or in large amounts. Slice apples into small pieces to make them easier to eat and digest.
• The natural sweetness of apples makes them appealing to most dogs. They are also low in protein and fat, which makes them a smart choice for dogs that need to watch their weight. For more about safe fruits, visit this American Kennel Club list.

Blueberries

• Blueberries are a superfood for dogs. They are full of antioxidants, which help fight cell damage and may support healthy aging. Blueberries also have vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, making them a nutrient-dense treat.
• These berries are low in calories, so they can be used as training rewards or mixed in with your dog’s usual food. They are soft, small, and easy to chew, so they work for dogs of any size. There’s no need to cut them up, but you can mash them if your dog prefers.
• You can offer blueberries fresh or frozen. Make sure to give them in moderation, as too many may cause a mild upset stomach.

Bananas

• Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. Potassium is good for heart health and helps muscles work properly. These fruits are also full of fiber, but keep in mind they are higher in sugar than some other fruits.
• Because of the sugar content, you should only give bananas as an occasional treat. Peel the banana and offer small slices to avoid choking.
• Bananas are useful for dogs who need an energy boost. That makes them a good snack before a long walk or after exercise. Avoid giving your dog banana peels, as they are hard to digest and may cause stomach pain.

Watermelon

• Watermelon is safe for most dogs and provides a source of hydration, especially on hot days. It is over 90% water and contains vitamins A, B6, and C.
• Before sharing watermelon, remove any seeds and the rind. Both are difficult to digest and may cause digestive blockages if eaten. Serve watermelon in small, seedless cubes to keep your dog safe.
• The fruit is low in calories and has almost no fat, making it a smart option for dogs who need to manage their weight. Watermelon is also a good choice for dogs who enjoy cold or frozen treats.

Vegetables Safe for Dogs

Many vegetables are not just safe for your dog but can be a healthy part of their meals. These vegetables offer important vitamins, minerals, and fiber to support your dog’s health in a natural way.

Carrots

• Carrots are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamin A, and beta-carotene. You can serve them raw or cooked, but raw carrots can help clean your dog’s teeth as they chew. Always slice carrots into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking, especially for small dogs.
• Rich in antioxidants, carrots help support your dog’s eye health and immune system. They are a crunchy snack that most dogs enjoy. While carrots are mostly safe, feed them in moderation due to their natural sugar content.
• If you want to give your dog a treat, try freezing carrot sticks as a cool snack in hot weather. Carrots can also be a useful reward during training because they are easy to carry and not messy.

Green Beans

• Green beans are packed with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and manganese. They are low in calories and can help your dog feel full without adding extra fat. This makes green beans a popular choice for dog owners watching their pet’s weight.
• Serve them fresh, steamed, or canned, but always choose unsalted and unseasoned varieties. Avoid giving your dog green beans cooked with oils, spices, or onions. Cut the beans into small pieces to reduce the risk of choking.
• Dogs often enjoy green beans because of their mild, crunchy texture. Because of their health benefits, green beans are widely approved as a safe and nutritious snack to share with your pet.

Sweet Potatoes

• Sweet potatoes are a nutritious option for dogs, providing vitamin A, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. These nutrients support your dog’s digestion and help maintain healthy skin and coat. You should always cook sweet potatoes and remove the skin, as raw sweet potatoes can be hard to digest.
• Serve sweet potatoes in small, plain pieces without seasoning, butter, or sugar. Avoid candied sweet potatoes or casseroles, as these can contain harmful ingredients. Sweet potatoes naturally taste sweet and are well-liked by many dogs.
• Feeding sweet potatoes in moderation can help add variety to your dog’s diet. They are soft and easy to chew, which makes them a good pick for dogs with dental issues.

Cucumbers

• Cucumbers are made mostly of water and are very low in calories, making them a crisp, hydrating snack for dogs. They contain small amounts of vitamins K, C, and B1, as well as potassium and magnesium.
• You can offer cucumbers raw, sliced thin or in small chunks. They are especially helpful for overweight dogs because they are filling without adding extra calories. Always wash cucumbers before serving, and remove large seeds to avoid choking.
• Some dogs may not like the texture at first, so introduce cucumbers slowly. Avoid pickles or seasoned cucumber products, as these contain salt and additives that are not safe for dogs. Cucumbers are a gentle treat option that can be useful for hot weather and weight control. A complete list of safe vegetables can be found with advice from the American Kennel Club.

Lean Proteins Beneficial for Dogs

Lean proteins help keep your dog’s muscles strong and support normal body functions. Offering certain proteins also gives your dog important vitamins and minerals that boost health.

Chicken

• Chicken is a lean meat that contains plenty of natural protein to help build muscles and repair body tissues. Always prepare it plain by removing skin and bones. Serve chicken cooked and unseasoned, as spices, garlic, and onions are harmful to dogs. Boneless, skinless chicken is best because it’s low in fat but high in nutrients.
• Feeding your dog cooked chicken can be done in small amounts as a treat, as part of a meal, or mixed with their regular food. Be sure the chicken is fully cooked to avoid bacteria.
• Chicken provides vitamins like B6, which helps with metabolism, and phosphorus for healthy bones. Avoid fried or processed chicken, as these forms contain unhealthy fats and extra salt.

Turkey

• Turkey is another healthy protein option for dogs. It’s less likely to cause allergies compared to other meats. Make sure to remove any skin, bones, and fat before cooking, as these parts can cause digestive problems or injury.
• Cook plain turkey thoroughly to kill any harmful bacteria and do not use added seasonings. Turkey can be given sliced, shredded, or mixed in with other dog-safe foods. Use ground or chopped turkey that has not been seasoned or cured.
• Turkey is rich in essential amino acids that support muscle growth and overall body function. It also contains selenium and niacin, nutrients that help your dog’s immune system stay strong. Lean turkey is easy to digest and a good option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Eggs

• Eggs are packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are easy to digest and provide nutrients that help with healthy skin and a shiny coat. Eggs are also a good source of vitamin D, which supports bone and immune health.
• Always serve eggs cooked, since raw eggs can carry bacteria like Salmonella that may make your dog sick. Scrambled or boiled eggs with no salt or spices are safe for most dogs to eat in moderation.
• In addition to protein, eggs supply vitamin A, riboflavin, and folate, all important for your dog’s everyday health. If your dog has never eaten eggs before, start with a small portion to make sure there are no allergies or digestive problems.

Whole Grains to Include in a Dog’s Diet

Whole grains can be a safe and nourishing addition to your dog’s meals. They offer energy, vitamins, and support healthy digestion when served in the right way.

Oatmeal

• Oatmeal is gentle on most dogs’ stomachs and is rich in soluble fiber. This makes it a good option if your dog has trouble with digestion or is sensitive to wheat. The fiber in oatmeal can help support regular bowel movements and maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
• This grain also supplies B vitamins, which are important for your dog’s coat and skin. Oatmeal contains minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc, which help with metabolism and the immune system. Be sure to serve only plain, cooked oatmeal with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
• When introducing oatmeal, start with small amounts to make sure your dog tolerates it well. You can mix it into regular dog food or use it as a topper.

Brown Rice

• Brown rice is a whole grain that is easy for most dogs to digest, especially when cooked well. It provides complex carbohydrates for energy, along with fiber that can help with constipation or firming up loose stools.
• It is also a source of important nutrients, including manganese, selenium, and magnesium. Brown rice contains small amounts of protein and B vitamins, which support your dog’s nervous system.
• Feed your dog plain, cooked brown rice. Avoid using salt, butter, or spices, as these can be harmful. You can offer brown rice with lean meats or vegetables as part of a balanced meal. Many commercial dog foods use brown rice as a main grain because it is nutritious and supports a healthy diet.

Dairy Products in Moderation

Some dairy products can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet if given in small amounts. Dogs often handle certain low-lactose options better than milk, but not all dogs digest dairy well. Watch for signs of stomach upset before making dairy a regular treat.

Plain Yogurt

• Plain yogurt offers probiotics that support healthy digestion and immune function for dogs. You should choose unsweetened, unflavored varieties, as added sugars and artificial sweeteners like xylitol are harmful to dogs. One to two spoonfuls per day is usually enough, depending on your dog’s size.
• If your dog shows signs of an upset stomach, including loose stools or gas, avoid feeding them yogurt. Some dogs are more sensitive to lactose, so always start with a small amount.
• According to the American Kennel Club, plain yogurt is a safe snack for many dogs, though not all can tolerate dairy. If your dog tolerates yogurt, it may also help with calcium intake. Avoid flavored yogurts and those with mix-ins, as these can contain ingredients harmful to dogs.

Cottage Cheese

• Cottage cheese is lower in lactose compared to most other dairy products and is typically easier for dogs to digest. It’s high in protein, which helps with muscle maintenance, and also supplies important minerals like calcium and phosphorus.
• Offer cottage cheese in small amounts to avoid digestive problems. Start with one or two spoonfuls and monitor for symptoms like diarrhea or bloating.
• Use plain, unsalted cottage cheese. Flavored or salty varieties can upset your dog’s stomach or add unnecessary sodium. Cottage cheese can be a good training reward or meal topper when used sparingly.
• Some vets recommend cottage cheese as a bland food for dogs with mild stomach upset, due to its gentle profile and ease of digestion. Keep your servings limited so it doesn’t make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.

Healthy Fats and Oils for Dogs

Dogs can benefit from certain healthy fats found in everyday foods. These fats support shiny coats, skin health, and provide energy when given in the right amounts.

Salmon

Salmon is a great source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These fats can help lower inflammation in your dog’s body and make their coat look shiny. Adding cooked salmon (without bones or seasoning) to your dog’s food can support their heart, joints, and brain.

Health benefits of salmon include:

• Improved skin and coat health
• Support for brain and eye development in puppies
• Reduced joint inflammation

Always cook salmon well to kill any harmful bacteria or parasites. Never give your dog raw salmon. Serve it plain, without sauces, onions, or garlic. It’s best to feed salmon in small pieces and not as a main meal every day.

Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a tasty treat for many dogs. It offers both healthy fats and protein. Peanut butter also contains vitamins B and E, as well as niacin, which all play important roles in your dog’s body. When choosing peanut butter, look for products that are unsalted and free from added sugar or xylitol.

Benefits of peanut butter include:

• Source of heart-healthy fats
• Provides vitamins and minerals
• Good for use in treat toys or training

Peanut butter should only be given in small amounts because it is high in fat and calories. Always check the label to make sure it does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. For more information on the benefits and safe options, visit the section on peanut butter for dogs.