You’re sitting down for dinner, and then — nudge! There’s that familiar feeling at your leg. Yep, it’s your dog hoping for a little taste of your plate.

The good news: you don’t always have to say no. Plenty of human foods are safe for dogs, but there are a few you should avoid to keep them healthy and happy.

At Lyka, we’re here to help you navigate which foods are great to share and which ones are best left for humans.

Before you start sharing snacks: make sure you understand your dog's unique dietary needs

Sharing food with your dog is a fun way to bond, but each dog is different — what works for one pup might not suit another. Here’s how to safely share human foods while keeping your dog’s health in mind:

1. Fats
   Healthy fats like those in coconut support energy and a shiny coat, but dogs prone to weight gain or sensitive stomachs may need less. Adjust fat intake based on your dog’s health and activity level.

2. Fruits and vegetables
   Blueberries, carrots, and sweet potatoes are nutritious and well-tolerated by most dogs, while veggies like broccoli or cauliflower may cause gassiness in sensitive pups. Start small and monitor your dog's response.

3. Carbohydrates
   Low-glycemic options like sweet potatoes are great for active dogs, but less active pups should stick to lower-carb veggies like cucumber. Avoid starchy foods like bread.

4. Portion control
   Adjust portion sizes based on your dog's size and needs. Keep treats, like mango or watermelon, to less than 10% of their daily intake, and always remove seeds or pits.

5. Allergies
   Some dogs are sensitive to common allergens like specific proteins. Always introduce new foods gradually and watch for any adverse reactions.

While some human foods can be safe and nutritious for dogs, balance is key. Dogs thrive on a thoughtfully crafted, high-quality diet that meets their unique nutritional needs — that’s where Lyka shines. Treats from the table are fine in moderation, but too much can tip the scales and lead to unwanted weight gain.

If your dog has health conditions like diabetes or kidney issues, it’s always best to check with your vet before introducing anything new. With their guidance and the right nutrition, your pup will stay healthy and happy for the long run.

Foods that are good for dogs

Lean animal protein

Lean protein is great for dogs in the right amounts.

Next time you're scrambling eggs for yourself, you can "accidentally" drop a piece for your pup. Lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and eggs are safe, delicious, and packed with high-quality amino acids, which are essential for muscle repair, healthy skin, and a shiny coat.

These proteins are easily digestible, making them perfect for keeping your dog strong and energetic without overloading their system. But steer clear of fatty meats like bacon or ham — they can lead to an upset stomach or, in the long run, cause weight gain and other health issues.

Here’s a list of nutritious animal proteins that both you and your pup can enjoy:

• Chicken: lean and packed with high-quality protein, chicken supports muscle health and keeps your dog full of energy.

• Beef: rich in essential amino acids, beef provides the strength-boosting nutrients your dog needs for healthy growth and vitality.

• Lamb: a tasty, nutrient-dense protein source, lamb is perfect for supporting skin and coat health while being gentle on sensitive stomachs.

• Turkey: low in fat and full of flavour, turkey is a lean, easily digestible protein that’s ideal for dogs with dietary sensitivities.

• Kangaroo: naturally lean and high in iron, kangaroo delivers a powerhouse of nutrients to keep your dog strong and active.

• Sardines: packed with omega-3 fatty acids, sardines are a heart-healthy treat that promotes shiny coats and brain health.

• Eggs: a complete protein, eggs deliver essential nutrients like vitamins D and B12 to support your dog’s overall health.

• Beef liver: nature’s multivitamin, beef liver is packed with vitamin A, iron, and folate for an extra nutrient boost that dogs love.

• Goat: as a single novel protein, goat is a lean, highly digestible option that’s perfect for dogs with sensitivities, offering essential nutrients without triggering common allergens.

Some vegetables

Vegetables do more than just offer a crunch for your dog – they’re packed with essential nutrients that support their overall health.

Veggies like broccoli, celery, and cucumbers make tasty, low-calorie snacks that can be served fresh or frozen for a refreshing treat. Plus, a whole carrot can keep them entertained and satisfied for longer. Just remember to avoid canned options, as these often sneak in additives that aren’t great for dogs.

But not all veggies are created equal for pups. Toxic ones like onions or the green parts of tomatoes can cause serious health issues. Stick with the safe and healthy choices for your dog's snacks.

Here’s a comprehensive list of human and pup-friendly veg you can share with your pup:

• Spinach: packed with iron and antioxidants, spinach gives your dog a boost in energy and supports immune health.

• Broccoli: high in fibre and vitamin C, broccoli is a crunchy, nutrient-packed treat that promotes healthy digestion and immunity.

• Red and purple sweet potato: loaded with beta-carotene and antioxidants, sweet potatoes provide a vibrant source of energy and support for eye health.

• Button and shiitake mushrooms: mushrooms are a powerhouse of vitamins B and D, helping to boost your dog’s immune system and overall vitality.

• Carrot: crunchy and full of beta-carotene, carrots are the perfect snack for supporting eye health and keeping teeth clean.

• Cabbage: this leafy green is rich in fibre and vitamin K, supporting healthy digestion and strong bones.

• Butternut squash: full of fibre and vitamin A, butternut squash aids digestion and helps maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin.

• Kale: nutrient-dense and packed with antioxidants, kale is a leafy green that supports your dog’s heart health and immune function.

• Beetroot powder: This vibrant powder delivers antioxidants and fibre, supporting heart health and aiding in digestion.

• Cauliflower: low in calories but rich in vitamins, cauliflower provides a fibre-rich snack that promotes healthy digestion and overall well-being.

Some fruits

Fruits, like blueberries and mango chunks, are more than just a sweet treat – they bring real nutritional value to your dog’s bowl.

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, helping to boost your dog’s immune system, while mango provides a punch of vitamins A, C, and E, perfect for skin and eye health. Especially during warmer months, frozen fruits can help cool your pup down in a nutritious way.

However, watch out for high-sugar fruits like cantaloupe, and always remove pits and peels before serving. Dangerous fruits like avocados, grapes and cherries should never be near your dog's bowl.

Here’s a variety of tasty fruits — perfect for sharing with your pup:

• Blueberries: packed with antioxidants, blueberries help support your dog’s immune system and overall brain health.

• Raspberries: low in sugar and rich in fibre, raspberries make a refreshing snack that supports heart health and digestion.

• Tomatoes: full of lycopene and vitamin C, tomatoes (when ripe and without the green parts) help protect your pup’s cells and boost their immune system.

• Coconut: high in healthy fats, coconut promotes a glossy coat and supports skin health, while being a tasty tropical treat.

• Blackberries: bursting with antioxidants and vitamins, blackberries help strengthen your dog’s immune system and support healthy ageing.

• Mango: A sweet treat rich in vitamins, but be sure to remove the skin and pit and offer it in moderation.

• Watermelon: Hydrating and refreshing, watermelon is a great snack — just remove the seeds to keep it safe for your pup.

• Apples: a crunchy, low-calorie snack rich in fibre and vitamin C, apples are a great way to support your dog’s digestion — just remember to remove the seeds and core!

Snacking in moderation: how much is too much?

As beneficial as healthy snacks are, moderation is essential to ensure your dog stays balanced and happy. When offering treats, they should never exceed 10% of your dog’s daily food intake. This keeps your dog’s diet nutritious and prevents unnecessary weight gain or digestive issues.

Start with small portions to see how your dog responds. For smaller pups, just a bite or two of a snack might be enough, while larger dogs can enjoy a little more. Always opt for snacks that are free from added seasonings, especially salt, and keep them simple – like a piece of fruit or a small amount of steamed veggies. Raw treats can sometimes be harder to digest, so offering them cooked or gently steamed can make a big difference in your dog’s digestion.

By keeping portions small at snack time, you can give your pup the enjoyment of a treat without compromising their health. Remember: a healthy, balanced diet should always come first, with snacks being an occasional (and well-earned) bonus.

Foods that are never OK for dogs:

1. Chocolate: we all know chocolate is bad for dogs, but it’s important to remember that the higher the cocoa content, the more dangerous it becomes. A little milk chocolate might cause a tummy ache, but dark or baker’s chocolate could be much more serious. A safer alternative you can give your dog is carob, which is a powerful, pup-friendly superfood that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and boosts the good bacteria in your dog's gut.

2. Most dairy products: just like us, many dogs are lactose intolerant. Things like whole milk, ice cream, and cottage cheese can lead to some serious stomach upset for your pup. It’s best to skip these altogether.

3. Sugary products: it may taste great, but sugar is not good for dogs. And artificial sweeteners like xylitol, often found in gum, candy and some peanut butter, are extremely toxic to pups.

4. Cooked bones: unlike raw bones, cooked bones can easily splinter and cause serious damage to your dog’s digestive system, including choking, blockages, or internal injuries. Always opt for raw, safe alternatives.

5. Macadamias: even in small amounts, macadamias can be toxic to dogs, causing symptoms like weakness, vomiting, and tremors. Keep these off-limits to your pup.

   Spicy food: these can upset your dog’s stomach, leading to discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea. Stick to mild, plain foods to keep your dog’s digestive system happy.

What to do if your dog eats something they shouldn't

Accidents happen – even the best-behaved pups sometimes manage to sneak a bite of something off-limits. The first thing to remember is: don’t panic. Here's what you can do if your dog eats something they shouldn’t:

1. Assess what was eaten

   Identify what your dog has eaten and how much. For example, small amounts of certain foods, like chocolate, might just cause an upset stomach, but larger quantities of high-risk items like grapes, xylitol (artificial sweetener), or onions can be much more dangerous.

2. Check for symptoms

   Keep an eye out for any signs of distress or unusual behaviour, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, excessive drooling, or difficulty breathing. Some symptoms may take time to appear, so monitor your dog closely for a few hours.

3. Call your vet

   It’s always a good idea to call your vet if you’re unsure. Let them know what your dog has eaten and follow their advice. In some cases, they might recommend bringing your dog in immediately or administering first aid at home.

4. Don’t try home remedies

   Avoid giving your dog any home remedies or trying to make them vomit without professional guidance. Some substances, like sharp bones, can cause more damage on the way back up, so always consult your vet first.

5. Prevent it from happening again

   Prevention is the best cure! Keep toxic foods and harmful items well out of reach, and make sure your dog’s curious nose can’t get into any bins or cupboards. You might also want to review your dog’s diet to ensure they’re getting satisfying, nutritious meals to keep those food-craving instincts in check.

The powerful role of fruits and vegetables in your pup's food

Fruits and vegetables are game-changers for your dog’s diet — we make this easy by adding vital nutrients like fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants to each Lyka meal for maximum nutrition.

At Lyka, every ingredient in your dog’s bowl is fresh, healthy, and vet-approved — no nasties. Each meal is gently cooked, custom-portioned, and perfectly balanced to give your dog exactly what they need to thrive.

Whether it’s improving skin health or boosting energy levels, Lyka’s fresh meals, powered by real ingredients help your dog thrive.

🐶 Read more: The life-changing benefits of real food for dogs →