Table Scraps for Dogs

Of course you should give your dogs table scraps!

Man has been been doing this since the beginning - even before he had tables.

Now here is some food for thought.

Back in the day, dogs were much healthier when they ate our leftovers and NOT dog kibble. Two major things have changed.

• The public belief that dog kibble and canned dog food was actually scientifically formulated, instead of using leftovers that would just go into the trash.
• Humans, especially in the United States don’t eat healthy like they use to.

If you eat meats without a lot of sauces, marinades and gravy, they are good for your dog. If you eat raw fruits and vegetables, they are good for your dog. If you eat plain steamed or boiled vegetables, beans or rice, they are good for your dog. If you eat salad, it is good for your dog.

“Giving dogs table scraps isn't recommended for a number of reasons. Of course dogs like people food better than dog food, but it isn't formulated for their specific needs.”

Bingo, this writer believes the dog food manufacturers. She goes on to say how her husband gave their Shitzu buttered popcorn and it made him sick. Lets think about this.

Since when has buttered popcorn become a meal? It is not a table scrap, it's snack food. Second, if I ate the same ratio of buttered popcorn as that little dog (I'd guess around 13 cups) I’d be sick too! Use your head!

Note: When I make popcorn, I use an air popper. I set some aside before I add the butter and salt so my dogs can share a small treat with us.

Of course your dogs want whatever you have. One of my dogs does not love carrots as much as the others. However, if I or any of the other four dogs in my house are having a carrot, she does not want to miss out and will chow down like it’s a gift from heaven. The thought occurs to me that if I eat better, so will my dogs.

If you really enjoy feeding your dog people food, then by all means, go ahead. When you cook a meal, set some aside for your dog before you add the sauce, the gravy, the ketchup or the butter. You'll both be happier for it. Just keep in mind his nutritional needs, as you do your own. You do don't you?

And one last thought about scraps and leftovers. I hate begging dogs. My dog Lily knows she will not get my leftovers if she begs, so she lies under the table patiently while I eat my meal. If she behaves (and she usually does), I save her something healthy and either give it to her after I clear my plate as a dog food treat, or I add it to her food bowl.

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