It’s almost impossible to resist sharing a little food with our dogs, especially when they look at us with those sweet, begging eyes. While many human foods can actually be harmful to dogs, quite a few are perfectly safe — and even good for them. Knowing which ones are safe means you can treat your pup to a healthy homemade snack every now and then.

Making something special for your dog is a simple but meaningful way to show how much you love them. Here’s a list of 12 human foods that dogs can enjoy — from peanut butter to pineapple — and a few important things to keep in mind with each one.

12. Peanut Butter

Peanut butter drives most dogs absolutely nuts in the best way! One little lick off a spoon, and they’re hooked. Lately, there’s been some scary talk online about peanut butter being deadly for dogs. But don’t worry — plain peanut butter without added sugar or salt is safe as a treat.

The real danger comes from xylitol, a sugar substitute in sugar-free peanut butter, gums, candies, and toothpaste. Xylitol is highly poisonous to dogs, even more dangerous than chocolate. It can cause seizures, liver failure, or worse. Always double-check the label before sharing a peanut butter snack with your dog.

11. Dairy Products

Milk is okay for dogs, but only in small amounts. Some dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning their digestive system can’t handle milk well. A few spoonfuls of cow or goat milk as a treat is fine for most dogs, but giving them a full bowl could cause diarrhea or an upset stomach.

Milk is also high in fat and natural sugars, so even if your dog seems to handle it well, too much isn’t healthy. Suppose your dog loves dairy but has trouble with milk. In that case, plain yogurt is a better choice — it’s easier to digest and safer for sensitive tummies.

10. Bread

Most dogs can eat plain white or wheat bread in moderation without any problems. But not all breads are created equal. Some contain harmful ingredients like garlic, onions, nuts, seeds, or even raisins — all of which can be toxic to dogs.

The most significant risk comes from raisins, which can cause serious health problems even in small amounts. Always read the ingredient list if you’re thinking of sharing a bite of bread with your dog. And, of course, bread should only be a treat, not a regular part of their diet.

9. Watermelon

Watermelon is a refreshing dog treat, especially on a hot summer day. It’s full of water, which helps keep them hydrated. But make sure to remove all seeds first, as they can cause intestinal blockages and cut away the rind, which can upset their stomach.

Other fruits like blueberries, cantaloupe, strawberries, bananas, and mangoes are also great for dogs. They’re packed with vitamins and fiber. Apples are an excellent choice, too — remember to take out the core and seeds. But never give your dog avocado or grapes; they are very toxic.

8. Chicken

Chicken is a favorite because it’s safe, tasty, and packed with protein. It’s a main ingredient in many commercial dog foods. Just be sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and plain — no onions, garlic, heavy spices, or salt.

Always remove cooked bones. They can splinter easily and cause choking or serious internal injuries. Stick to simple, boneless cooked chicken to keep your pup safe and happy.

7. Eggs

Eggs are a fantastic source of protein and nutrients for dogs. They can eat the whole egg, including the shell. But it’s best to cook the eggs first to kill harmful bacteria like salmonella.

Feeding raw eggs regularly could also cause a vitamin B7 deficiency because of an enzyme in raw egg whites. Scrambled, boiled, or poached eggs are all great options — skip the butter, oil, and seasoning.

6. White Rice

When your dog has an upset stomach, plain white rice can be a lifesaver. It’s easy to digest, quick to prepare, and helps firm up loose stools. Many vets recommend white rice along with plain boiled chicken for dogs recovering from tummy troubles.

Brown rice is also healthy but harder to digest, so it’s not ideal for sick dogs. If your dog is feeling fine, brown rice can be an excellent fiber boost.

5. Pork

Plain-cooked pork (without spices or sauces) is fine for dogs. However, processed pork, like ham and bacon, is unsafe because of its high fat and salt content. These can upset your dog’s stomach, leading to more serious health problems like pancreatitis.

Also, never give your dog cooked pork bones. They can break apart and cause choking or injure their insides. Stick to small, simple pieces of plain cooked pork.

4. Bone Broth

Bone broth is like a superfood for dogs. It’s full of nutrients that support their joints, gut health, and immune system. Plus, it’s delicious, so it’s an easy way to make dry kibble more appealing.

You can buy bone broth made for dogs at pet stores or make your own at home by simmering bones in water for a long time. Just ensure no added onions, garlic, or heavy seasonings.

3. Carrots

Carrots are perfect if you want a fun and crunchy treat for your dog. Not only are they low in calories, but chewing on a carrot helps clean plaque off their teeth naturally.

Carrots are packed with vitamin A, which is good for your dog’s eyes, skin, and immune system. You can give them raw baby carrots for a crunchy snack or cook them if your dog prefers something softer.

2. Coconut Meat

Coconut meat is just as healthy for dogs as coconut oil. It’s full of healthy fats, fiber, and nutrients that boost your dog’s energy and help their skin and coat look shiny and healthy.

As with any treat, moderation is key. Too much coconut can upset your dog’s stomach and cause diarrhea. A small spoonful now and then is more than enough.

1. Pineapple

Fresh pineapple is a sweet and juicy treat packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s a great immune system booster and can even help with digestion because it contains an enzyme called bromelain.

However, pineapple is naturally high in sugar, so it should only be consumed in small amounts. Make sure to peel it and remove the core before offering little chunks to your dog. Avoid canned pineapple, though — the sugary syrup can be too much for their stomachs.

A Final Thought

Sharing safe human foods with your dog can be a sweet way to show you care. It’s a little extra love on top of their regular meals. Just remember: moderation is everything, and always double-check ingredients if you’re ever unsure.

When you treat your dog to healthy, dog-safe human foods, you’re making their tails wag and giving them extra nutrition that supports their health and happiness. And honestly, seeing them gobble up a treat you made just for them is one of the best feelings ever.