FRANKY'S FOOD GUIDE
a dog friendly food guide by Veda Gavle
After getting my job at Breadroot Co-op, my first thought was I can’t wait to try a bunch of new food! After getting my dog Franky, one of my first thoughts was I can’t wait for her to try food from the Co-op!
I do my best to make sure that my family and I eat healthy, natural, and organic foods when possible, especially when snacking. Franky, being our newest and cutest family member, I think deserves that same standard when it comes to what she’s snacking on. Of course, Franky does not get to try my new favorite fair-trade chocolate bar, or the pasta salad and brats we had for dinner, but when Yumi watermelons are in season, and I am basically crying at how good they are, she should get to experience that joy too, right? RIGHT!
Chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and avocados are just a few of the many human foods that are not safe for dogs, but after doing my research and talking to our veterinarian, Franky and I found out that there are many human foods that she can safely snack on!
Franky is still just a puppy, so we are trying new things slowly and sparsely so that we don’t create any bad habits or end up with a picky eater. While introducing her to new treats and snacks, we only let her try one new thing at a time. This allows us to keep track just in case Franky has any adverse reactions, but so far, so good! Clearly, sharing is caring is an important rule in our house, but we also now abide by the 10% rule. Moderation is key! Treats should only make up 10% of a dog’s diet, so we have to keep this in mind while we are training Franky and letting her discover the wonderful world that is Breadroot Co-op groceries.
This is Franky’s list of to-try foods from the co-op. This isn’t all of the dog-safe food available at the co-op, but kind of just a place to start. Most of these items are things I will eat as well, which is important because I don’t want to waste anything, and Franky can’t eat an entire sweet potato. She hasn’t tried everything on the list yet, but so far she has been very impressed.
If you decide that you want to introduce your furry friends to some dog-safe human food, make sure to check with your veterinarian first. All dogs are different, so you and your vet will be able to decide what is best for your most loyal companion.
– Rich in antioxidants.
– A common ingredient in dog food.
– Promotes shinier coat, better eyesight, and improved digestion.
– May be used to soothe GI upset
– Be sure there are no seeds!!!
Pumpkin Purée
– A low-calorie snack.
– High in antioxidants and vitamins C and K, which boost the immune system.
– High in fiber.
FRANKY’S RATING:
“4 out of 5 stars. Would be a 5 out of 5, but my mom has to smush them because I am such a gentle gal that I won’t bite through the skin.”
BLUEBERRIES
Plain, unflavored, low or non-fat yogurt is good as long as the pup doesn’t have issues digesting lactose!
– High in protein, supporting muscle, bone, and tissue health
– Rich in bone-building calcium and probiotics that may contribute to gut health.
– Great addition to lick mats for a snack.
– HACK! Add to a lick mat and freeze for longer enrichment.
FRANKY’S RATING:
“10/10. Delicious. I love it so much!!!!!“
PLAIN YOGURT
– A hydrating and low-calorie treat!
– A good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as magnesium and potassium.
– The crunchy texture can be good for cleaning teeth and freshening breath (but does not replace actual teeth brushing!).
– Cut and serve in bite-sized pieces for your dog (bite-sized size will vary depending on your dog’s size).
– HACK! Boil celery in plain water, and freeze! This creates a nice crunchy pup-cicle for a hot summer day, or to relieve your teething pup.
CELERY
– Rich in vitamin A for eye and coat health.
– Low-calorie and a great treat for training.
– Cut and serve in bite-sized pieces for your dog (bite-sized size will vary depending on your dog’s size).
– HACK! Boil in dog safe bone broth and freeze! Another nice crunchy pup-cicle for a hot summer day, or to relieve your teething pup.
FRANKY’S RATING:
*Infinite tail wags* “I love these crunchy and delicious veggies.”
CARROTS
– A nutrient-dense food that works well as a treat or as a portion of your dog’s regular diet!
– Great source of highly digestible protein, fatty acids, and vitamin A.
– Only feed plain, fully cooked eggs (no butter, oil, salt, or seasonings).
– Dogs should have only 1 egg per week
– HACK! Crack an egg on a silicon lick mat and throw it in the microwave for a quick enrichment snack!
EGGS
Check the ingredient list and be sure the peanut butter does not contain xylitol! Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs.
– A great source of protein and healthy fats.
– A good source of vitamin B6 and niacin; vital nutrients that support the dog’s enzymes and nervous system.
– HACK! Peanut butter is the perfect distracting treat when trying to trim your dog’s nails, give them a bath, or brush their teeth!
PEANUT BUTTER
– Good source of potassium, which is good for the dog’s heart, kidneys, muscles, and digestion.
– Rich in magnesium and fiber.
– Moderation is key! Start with a small slice. Larger dogs should only have half a banana per day.
BANANA
– A hydrating snack!
– Full of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, potassium, and vitamins B, C, and K.
– Removing skin and seeds is recommended, but not absolutely required. Skin and seeds may give your dog an upset stomach.
FRANKY’S RATING:
“3 out of 5 stars. Fun to eat, but also fun to just play with.”
CUCUMBER
– A common ingredient in a lot of dog foods!
– High in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports your dog’s immune system, vision, and skin.
– Good source of digestion-boosting fiber.
– Only serve plain and fully cooked.
Sweet Potatoes
In moderation only!
– The cheese tax is real, people, and it’s also safe! (in small quantities).
– Small amounts in moderation are best!
– Only good for dogs who don’t have issues digesting lactose.