10 Best and Worst Foods we Give our Big Dogs
We love our Big Dogs and we love to spoil them. But sometimes what we don’t know can hurt or even kill or Big Dog buddies. Here’s a list of the best and worst foods for or Big Dog buddies. So, go ahead spoil them, just don’t spoil them to death.
Worst Foods
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic can kill their red blood cells which can cause anemia, and poisoning. Notable signs may be breathing problems, vomiting and weakness.
Coffee, or Tea
Caffeine can kill your big dog. If you think your dog ingest coffee or tea get him to the vet as soon as possible.
Grapes
Grapes and raisins alike can cause your big dog to have kidney failure. Even a small amount can make a dog sick causing vomiting again and again. This will be followed by sluggishness and signs of depression.
Dairy Products
How many times have you seen people giving their big dogs a treat of ice cream. Bad idea, while dogs may love it, this can cause diarrhea and other digestive problems. Dairy can also trigger food allergies.
Chocolate
Most people know this one but it bears repeating here. Chocolate can be deadly for your big dog. Especially dark chocolate and baking chocolate. Chocolate can cause seizures, heart problems, tremors and lead to death.
Bones and Fat trimmings
Fat trimmings can lead to pancreatiis. And even though most believe it's okay to give a dog a bone, it can cause them to choke. They can also splinter and cause life threatening cuts in your dog's digestive system.
Avocados
They contain persin which some people are allergic to but it’s toxic to dogs. Too much will cause vomiting and diarrhea. Also the avocado seed can cause obstructions in the intestines and stomach.
Alcohol
Some people think it’s cute to give their pooch a little taste of beer. Wrong. Even a little can cause vomiting, breathing problems, coma and even death. Some find yourself some other drinking buddies.
Peaches and plums
Both contain cyanide which is poisonous to people and dogs. The thing is people don’t eat the pits, dog will. Additionally if swallowed they can cause deadly obstructions in the gastrointestinal path.
Sugar
Just like us humans, sugar is bad for dogs. Sugar can make your dog overweight, cause problems with their teeth and lead to diabetes. Additionally sugar can be toxic to dogs and lead to metabolic changes that leave your Big dog weaker and less active. Doesn't seem so sweet now does it?
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Now here’s a list of Great foods for your Big Dog to Eat
Carrots
Bugs Bunny is not the only one that loves carrots. Dogs love them too and carrots are great for your Big Dog in many ways. Chewing on the veggie is great for removing plaque from their teeth. Carrots also help bulk up their stool assisting in messy and runny stools. And like humans, eyesight is improved due to the beta-carotene. Loaded with vitamins and low in fat carrots are a great snack, treat or addition to you Big Dogs meals.
Salmon
This may be an expensive food to add to your Big Dogs diet but it adds tremendous benefits. First of all it is recommended only twice a week. Always cook the salmon and leave it unseasoned. The omega-3 fatty acids will boost the immune system, reduce inflammation and keep their coat shiny. Think of what it does for us and you’’’ see the same benefits for your Big Dog.
If on a strict budget try canned salmon. But be sure there are no bones. Be careful of poor quality salmon as it may contain parasites which causes salmon poisoning disease which can prove to be deadly.
Yogurt
Great for a variety of reasons, yogurt is the perfect dairy product for your Big Dog. High in probiotics, this good bacteria helps aid digestion, fight off infections and promotes mineral production and utilization. Dogs suffering from diarrhea may benefit from a few tablespoons mixed into their food. But always consult your veterinarian first when treating for diarrhea. It could be something more serious.
Peanut butter
Peanut butter is great for the protein it provides. It also provides vitamins B,E and niacin. Make sure to give them raw and unsalted when added it to their diet or as a treat. Peanut butter is also a great food to add to your Big Dogs toys such as a Kong, this will keep them busy while giving them a nutritious snack.
Pumpkin
This is a great source of vitamin A and fiber. Also great for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Make sure to use canned pumpkin or fresh but without any sugars or spices.
Apples
Sliced apples are a great treat for your Big Dog and provide a lot of phytonutrients, vitamin A and C. You can serve it with our without the skin. But do not feed them the apple seeds as they contain trace elements of cyanide.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is an excellent source of dietary fiber. This is great for dogs with bowel irregularity issues. Oatmeal is also a safe grain for dogs with wheat allergies. It’s better to cook the oatmeal and don’t add any sugar. Mix in with dogs food to add in bowel regularity.
Bananas
In moderation bananas are an excellent treat for you Big Dog. They are low calorie treat that is high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber and copper. Also low in cholesterol and sodium, but due to high sugar content only give as an occasional treat.
Broccoli
Raw or cooked broccoli is good for your dog in moderation. Because it contains isothiocyanates compounds which may irritate your dog’s digestive tract if he eats too much. Therefore feed only as an occasional snack.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes are easy for dogs to digest, rich in vitamin A and excellent to support his/her immune system. Add a few to their regular food occasionally. Or give to them as a treat. However avoid giving too often as excessive vitamin A can lead to bone problems and muscle weakness.