Can dogs eat leftover food?

Anyone who has pets knows how difficult it is to resist their watchful eyes at mealtimes. Many owners, with the best intentions, end up sharing small pieces of their plate with their four-legged friend. But is this safe for your dog?

Not all human foods are suitable for dogs, and some can be dangerous to their health. Leftover food can include scraps of meat, rice, pasta, vegetables, sauces, or pieces of bread. While it's natural to want to spoil your dog or avoid waste, it's important to be aware of the risks associated with this act.

Leftover food is often too spicy for animals and poses a significant danger to them. Seasonings, sauces, salt, sugar, or spices can irritate an animal's digestive system, causing diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort.

Not everything is forbidden. There are foods that can be offered occasionally and in small quantities without compromising your dog's health:

• Plain rice
  
• - Cooked chicken or turkey (without salt, without bones)
  
• Carrot, pumpkin or apple (without seeds)
  
• Boiled sweet potato
  

It's important to remember that these foods are only occasional supplements and should never replace a complete and balanced diet specifically formulated for dogs.

Risks of regularly giving leftover food

Giving leftover food frequently can cause several problems:

• - Digestive problems, such as diarrhea and vomiting;
  
• Excess fat and salt, risk of obesity and heart disease;
  
• - Long-term nutritional imbalance;
  
• Bad behavior, such as constantly asking for food at the table;
  

Safer alternatives

If you want to pamper your dog without putting its health at risk, opt for snacks and treats formulated for dogs that respect their nutritional needs.

Sharing leftover food may seem like a loving gesture, but the best way to care for your dog is to ensure a balanced, safe, and appropriate diet. Some seemingly harmless products can have serious effects on your four-legged friend's health.