A balanced meal is as important for dogs as it is for humans. Dog owners should understand that their pet requires a lot of nutrients to stay healthy and happy, which involves giving them various foods. While many packaged food options are available for dogs, you can provide them with a home-cooked meal full of vitamins and minerals. Check out some human foods which are safe for dogs to eat.

Chicken
One of the favorite foods of our furry friends, chicken, can be added to all their meals! Chicken is an excellent protein source; when added with rice, it can be a good and heavy meal of carbs and protein. It is especially great for dogs who are very active and need energy from the carbs! You can boil the chicken and shred it to mix with cooked rice. You can choose to give red rice or brown rice to make it a more healthy meal. This can be given daily instead of dry kibble, which probably comes with some preservatives that are not good for your dog’s health.

Carrots
Great for humans, great for dogs! Carrots are a rich source of vitamin A, beta carotene, and fiber, which makes them an excellent nutrient ingredient for your dog. Apart from carrots, you can even add pumpkin, beans, and peas to their meals. Just boil all these ingredients till they are soft and mash them to make a soup. You can freeze this mixture and use a couple of spoons daily in their meals or make fresh puree every day. This protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin A and K-rich puree can keep your furry friend feeling healthy and full.

Peanut butter
This makes a yummy treat for your furry friend, especially as a training treat! However, it is best if you make peanut butter at home, or if you buy a jar, ensure the ingredients list only contains peanut butter and no other preservatives. You can easily spread a good chunk of peanut butter on a lick mat and let your dog sniff and lick through it to keep them busy and stimulated. Many dogs do not enjoy bathing, but if you stick a peanut butter lick mat on the wall next to the bathtub, you can easily distract them from getting into a quick shower!

Turkey
Protein, riboflavin, and phosphorus are all three essential nutrients for your pet, and turkey is loaded with these. Turkey is a lean, mean source of protein, so it’s healthy and filling. Cook the meat thoroughly, add some veggies and rice and have a nutrient-filled lunch/dinner for your best friend.

Eggs
Another great source of protein, but also fatty acids and vitamins! Eggs can be a great addition to your dog’s meal plan and are easy to cook. You should boil them for a couple of minutes and add them to your dog’s bowl. Of course, peel the shell out. Try buying free-range eggs as they are more nutritious, considering the chickens are in a healthy environment. Also, ensure you don’t feed raw eggs to your dog as it may cause some infection.

Salmon
Fish, in general, is excellent for dogs, but salmon is the safest to give to your pet. It contains a ton of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to be a perfect nutrient choice for good fur coats and skin. This is especially great if you live in a dry region and your dog has dry skin, as it helps with skin hydration.

Yogurt
While dairy is not a good choice for your dog, yogurt is good. Since it is a fermented ingredient, it comes with many probiotics that keep the digestive system healthy and flourishing; therefore, it makes for a quick, yummy, healthy snack.

If you cannot cook meals at home for your dog, some brands provide nutritious kibbles like Royal Canin, Hill’s dog food, Blue Buffalo, Purina, and Nutro; all are great choices among pet parents. Speak to your veterinarian before choosing the proper kibble for your dog.