Bread is used in a lot of different ways for humans. Whether we make homemade bread, toast, or make various sandwiches, everyone has bread in their home. Of course, there are so many different kinds of bread, too, but is it safe to have it in reach of your dog? Can dogs eat bread? The short answer is yes (but also no).
As long as you check in with your dog’s veterinarian first and your pooch doesn’t have any allergies, bread is okay to feed to your dog. But, of course, it should be given to your doggo in moderation and small quantities, like any other human food.
Are there any health benefits to feeding dogs bread?
Unfortunately, no. Bread has no nutritional value for dogs. While this food is safe for your furry friend to eat, they’ll gain no health benefits from it. Bread is a filler food and contains a lot of carbohydrates. In fact, too much bread will cause your dog to get sick and possibly gain weight.
You can certainly feed small pieces of bread to your pooch if you’re making yourself toast or something in the kitchen as a quick treat, but that’s about it. Your pup will think they’re getting a quick treat and be satisfied, but they won’t get any benefits from it.
Is bread good for a dog’s upset stomach?
As long as bread agrees with your dog’s system, it won’t cause stomach upset. This is partially why people think bread is good to feed your pooch when they have abdominal pain. However, a bland diet of plain rice and plain, boiled chicken is better for your dog’s upset stomach.
If you’re unsure or only have bread on hand, then call your dog’s vet first. It’s always a good idea to check in with them first before feeding anything to your dog that could potentially make them feel worse.
What are the risks of dogs eating bread?
Bread contains grains and wheat. If your dog has food allergies or needs a gluten-free or grain-free diet, then bread is certainly one food you want them to stay away from. Not only will bread cause them to gain weight, but it may also cause an allergic reaction in some dogs.
In addition, bread has a high glycemic index. So, if your pup is diabetic, then bread could cause their blood sugar levels to spike.
What kind of bread can dogs eat?
As long as your dog doesn’t have any food allergies, most types of bread will be safe for your pooch. For example, they can have plain white bread, wheat bread, whole grain bread, English muffins, and more. As long as the bread is plain and there’s nothing added to it, it’s safe for your dog to eat.
You don’t want your doggo to eat bread that has added ingredients or flavors. For example, bread with nuts (and seeds), chocolate chips, raisins, onions, garlic, or xylitol is a hard no. Some of these foods are toxic to dogs and will make them sick. So, if you’re going to eat some cinnamon raisin toast in the morning, do not share it with your pup.
The dangers of bread dough
Most people enjoy making bread from scratch, especially during the holidays. However, when making bread, be sure your dog does not get any. Do not share the dough with your pooch as your dog won’t digest it, and it will make them extremely sick.
Bread dough is a food hazard for dogs. When ingested, the yeast from the uncooked dough rises in your dog’s stomach, releasing toxins into your dog’s bloodstream. It can also cause Bloat, a fatal sickness in dogs.
If you suspect your dog might have eaten some of your raw bread dough and notice any symptoms listed below, then call your vet immediately.
- Weakness
- Depression
- Seizures
- Hypothermia
- Elevated heart rate
- Coma
- Respiratory failure
- Vomiting
- Low blood pressure
- Unsteady gait
- Distended abdomen
How to safely feed bread to your dog
While bread isn’t exactly the best choice to feed your dog, it is safe for them to eat. That’s why there are a few ways you can share this with them. You can either toss a piece of bread to your pooch while you’re making something for yourself. Be sure it’s a small enough piece for them to chew and swallow. Bread is dry, so make sure your pup has enough water nearby as well.
Some homemade recipes you can make for your dog if you’re looking to feed your doggo something new and unique.
- Banana Bread Soft Chew Dog Treat Recipe
- Banana Zucchini Bread Dog Treats
- Crouton Recipe for Dog Treats
- Taralli Dog Bread
Can dogs eat bread?
Yes, dogs can eat bread. However, they don’t gain anything from it. There’s no nutritional value for your doggo, and it’s filled with carbohydrates that will cause your pooch to gain weight. However, as long as the bread is plain, it won’t hurt them either.
Similar reading: can dogs eat…?
