Many pet owners wonder whether it is right to feed their dogs scraps from the dining table. Ideally your dog should only be fed food that has been produced specifically for dogs. This also applies to doggy treats too. However, it is OK to give your dog leftovers providing it makes up no more than 10% of its diet. Do avoid giving foods which are high in fat. Uncooked, raw vegetables which may cause tummy upsets. The downside to feeding your dog leftovers is that he may beg for food whilst you and the family are eating or pester you to give him treats at the table. If you do give your dog some leftovers then make sure you serve them up in his own bowl in the place where he normally eats his food.
There are certain foods which you must not feed your dog at all. Chocolate can be toxic to dogs, especially if eaten in large quantities. If your dog is known to pinch food, then do make sure that you do not leave chocolates around which are easily available. As well as chocolate, grapes and raisins are also toxic to dogs and may cause kidney failure. Lactose, which is found in milk and other dairy products is indigestible for dogs and should also be avoided.
