If you're a dog owner in East Tennessee, you know that our furry friends are part of the family. Whether you're hiking in the Smokies or enjoying a backyard BBQ in Knoxville, it's natural to want to share the good stuff with your pup. But when it comes to food, not everything we enjoy is safe for dogs. In fact, some common human foods can cause serious health issues for pets.
At DoodyCalls of East Tennessee, we spend a lot of time in your yards getting to know your pets. We’ve seen first-hand how much you care for them. That's why we're sharing a helpful guide on which foods are great for dogs and which ones you should keep out of reach.
Let’s make mealtime a little safer and a lot more informed for all East Tennessee dog lovers.
Safe and healthy foods your dog will love
Your dog’s diet doesn’t have to be boring. There are plenty of human foods that are safe, nutritious, and even beneficial for your dog in moderation. Here are some healthy options:
1. Lean meats
Cooked chicken, turkey, and lean cuts of beef are excellent protein sources. Just make sure they’re free from seasoning, sauces, and bones, which can be dangerous.
2. Carrots and green beans
Crunchy vegetables like carrots and green beans make great low-calorie snacks. They’re packed with fiber and vitamins that promote healthy digestion and shiny coats.
3. Apples (without seeds)
Sliced apples can be a tasty, vitamin-rich treat. Always remove the seeds and core before giving them to your dog.
4. Peanut butter (xylitol-free)
Peanut butter is a dog favorite, especially when used to fill a toy or treat. Just be absolutely sure it doesn’t contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is toxic to dogs.
5. Plain cooked rice or oatmeal
Both rice and oatmeal can soothe an upset stomach and are easy on digestion. These are great bland options when your dog isn’t feeling their best.
6. Pumpkin (plain, canned)
Canned pumpkin is a fantastic digestive aid. It’s full of fiber and nutrients, and dogs love the taste. Just avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices.
These dog-safe foods can help you add variety to your pet’s diet while supporting their overall health. Just remember: treats and add-ons should only make up about 10 percent of your dog’s daily intake.
Dangerous foods to avoid feeding your dog
Unfortunately, some of the foods we love are harmful — and sometimes even fatal — to our dogs. If you’re preparing meals or snacks in your East Tennessee home, be mindful of these common ingredients:
1. Grapes and raisins
These are highly toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure. Even a small amount can be dangerous, so keep them far away from curious noses.
2. Onions and garlic
These ingredients, common in many home-cooked meals, can damage your dog’s red blood cells and lead to anemia. This includes raw, cooked, or powdered forms.
3. Chocolate
It’s widely known, but always worth repeating. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.
4. Xylitol
Found in sugar-free gum, candies, baked goods, and some peanut butters, xylitol causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar and can lead to liver failure.
5. Avocado
While some dogs might tolerate it, avocado contains persin, which can cause stomach upset and other issues, especially in large quantities.
6. Cooked bones
They might seem like a natural treat, but cooked bones can splinter and cause choking, digestive blockages, or tears in the stomach or intestines.
7. Alcohol and caffeine
These substances are extremely toxic to dogs and should always be kept out of reach. Even small amounts can cause poisoning symptoms.
As East Tennessee pet owners, our region’s love of outdoor grilling, local food festivals, and family get-togethers means our dogs are often right at the center of the action. Always make sure food scraps and leftovers are safely discarded or stored, especially when pets are nearby.
What to do if your dog eats something they shouldn’t
If you think your dog has ingested a harmful food, act quickly. Call your vet or a 24-hour emergency animal clinic. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Here in East Tennessee, local vets and pet emergency services are just a call away. Make sure you have their numbers saved in your phone so you’re ready for anything.
We care about your pets as much as you do
At DoodyCalls of East Tennessee, we’re more than just the region’s trusted pet waste removal service. We’re proud to help keep your yards clean and safe for your family and pets. Whether you’ve got one pup or a whole pack, our team knows how important their health is to your household.
If you’re preparing meals or snacks in your home, knowing what’s safe for your dog can prevent unnecessary vet visits, emergency scares, and long-term health issues. A little knowledge goes a long way in keeping tails wagging across East Tennessee.
Need help keeping your yard clean and pet-friendly? DoodyCalls of East Tennessee is here to help. Contact us today to schedule reliable, affordable pet waste removal so you can focus on the fun parts of pet ownership.