Regardless of what kind of diet you follow or your favorite meals, it is worth doing some research into how different human foods can impact your dog’s bodily functions. This is a brief guide to determine what you can share with your dog, and what you should avoid.
Edamame
Something that is frequently asked is whether edamame is safe for dogs. The short answer is yes! It can be a healthy snack that is full of protein, vitamin C, and fiber. While there are some conflicting opinions, the beans from an edamame pod are completely safe for most dog breeds.
Of course, there are some exceptions to answering the question; is edamame good for dogs? Some breeds are more likely to develop allergies to foods they have not been as heavily exposed to. Edamame beans typically have a high soy content, which is a common allergy in golden retrievers, dalmatians, Chinese shar-peis, and shih tzus.
If your dog is more prone to food allergies, then it could be worth gradually exposing them to new foods. This can help build up a tolerance and improve digestive health.
While the beans within the edamame pods are widely considered to be safe for dogs, it is not recommended that they are given the bean pods. Although it is fine in terms of nutrients and diet, the pods tend to be a little more stringy. This can cause digestive problems if your dog doesn’t chew on it enough.
However, this can be overcome by finely dicing the edamame pod before giving to your dog. Because it is a versatile ingredient in many cuisines, you should also avoid giving edamame pods or beans to your dog if they have been coated with salt, oil, or other seasonings.
Cheese
Another food which has mixed opinions on whether it is safe for dogs to eat or not is cheese. It is something that we often take for granted, and can be enjoyed by both dogs and humans.
However, it is worth noting that many dogs are lactose intolerant, and eating cheese can affect their digestive system. Speak with your vet if you are concerned about your dog’s digestive health, but a small amount of cheese can be a great treat.
Most dogs love a bite of cheese, and moderate amounts are less likely to cause excess gas or stomach issues. Try to stick to one ounce of cheese or less if you have a smaller dog.
Eggs
Something that can actually help treat stomach problems is giving them cooked eggs. Most dogs love eggs, and will benefit from the source of fatty acids, protein, iron, and vitamins A and B12. Because of their texture, cooked eggs are easy to digest, and help ensure that your dog is fueled correctly.
The main risk that comes from eating eggs is eating them undercooked or raw. Avoid feeding your dog raw eggs, because it can increase the risk of giving them salmonella. This can become harmful as well as uncomfortable for your dog.
Almonds
Because of their unique shape, almonds are not suitable for dogs to eat. This is because they are more likely to block the windpipe if they have not been chewed enough. Smaller breeds are more likely to suffer esophagus or intestine issues caused by a blockage from an almond.
Raw almonds have also been known to contain harmful toxins that can be fatal to dogs. For these reasons we would highly recommend that you do not give your dog almonds in order to prevent more severe conditions from emerging.
Coconut
While it may not seem like the most natural thing to give a dog coconut, it can be a refreshing treat for them in moderation. Most dogs love the unique taste of coconut, and it contains lauric acid which is great for deterring harmful bacteria and viruses.
The main risk that comes from giving your dog coconut is the hard shell, which can easily get stuck in their throats. Small amounts of coconut milk, oil, and meat are recommended as a treat to avoid potential digestive issues from emerging.
Summary
Generally, there is a large selection of foods that you can easily share with your four legged companion. It is best to finely dice edamame shells before giving it to them to prevent choking. While most foods are safe, it is recommended that you do not coat them in flavorings.
If you are cooking for yourself and want to share some with your dog, you could leave some ingredients to one side before seasoning the dish. That way, you will both get to enjoy something tasty that will not harm you.
