If your pooch often slides up to you when you've got a sandwich or slice of toast in your hand, you've probably thought about giving them a bite. Sure, it's an everyday staple for most people, but while some types of human food are fine to share with our pampered pets, what about bread? Is it safe? White bread is generally OK to give your pup, but there are some important things you need to keep in mind.
Is white bread good for dogs?
Plain white bread without any extra flavourings is generally safe for dogs to eat in small amounts. However, it does not offer any significant nutritional value for your dog and not something they need. It is primarily made from refined flour, which lacks the vitamins, minerals, and fibre that whole grains offer. While it won’t harm your dog in small quantities, it won’t benefit their health either. In fact, bread is mostly a filler food, high in carbohydrates, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed regularly.
If your dog has no known allergies to wheat or gluten, white bread can be a rare treat, but it should not become a regular part of their diet.
Is bread good for dogs with upset stomachs?
You may have heard that bread can help settle a dog’s stomach. However, while bread might help absorb stomach acids in mild cases, it is not the best option. Veterinarians generally recommend boiled chicken and rice when dogs have stomach issues. Remember, your pup's stomach works differently from yours. Bread doesn’t offer the same soothing properties for dogs as it might for humans and is unlikely to make them feel better. If your dog has a persistent upset stomach, getting advice from your vet is the best option.
What food can my pet eat?
Discover foodsHow much bread can a dog eat?
When it comes to feeding your dog bread, moderation is key. A small piece of bread or a few crusts is fine as an occasional treat. However, due to its high-calorie content, giving your dog too much bread can lead to weight gain and larger amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset, such as bloating or constipation. If your dog is overweight or prone to gaining weight, it’s best to avoid bread altogether, as the added carbohydrates can exacerbate the issue. It's best to stick to healthy options designed for dogs if you want to give your pooch a treat.
Is toast OK for dogs?
Yes, feeding your pup plain toast without butter or toppings is safe, as long as it's in moderation. However, keep in mind that it offers no real nutritional benefit and there are better things they could be snacking on. Make sure the toast is fully cooled and plain, as butter, jam, or any other toppings can be harmful to your dog’s health.
Can dogs eat bread crust?
Yes, dogs can eat bread crusts, as long as they are plain and free from any harmful ingredients such as butter, garlic, or seeds. Bread crusts are similar to the rest of the bread in terms of safety but should only be offered in moderation.
Can dogs eat brown bread?
Dogs can eat plain brown or wholemeal bread as long as it doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients like seeds, nuts, or dried fruits. Brown bread is slightly more nutritious due to its higher fibre content, but it still shouldn’t be a regular part of your dog’s diet.
Can dogs eat bread with butter?
While a little amount of buttered bread is unlikely to cause any harm to your dog, it is not recommended. Butter is high in fat, which can lead to digestive issues like diarrhoea and bloating, especially in dogs that are sensitive to fat. Regular consumption of fatty foods like butter can also contribute to obesity and pancreatitis, a serious condition.
Can dogs eat rye bread?
Plain rye bread is not toxic to canines but should be given sparingly. Rye contains more fibre than white bread, which could potentially cause digestive upset if eaten in large quantities. Additionally, dogs with wheat or grain allergies should avoid rye bread.
Can dogs eat seeded bread?
Dogs should not eat seeded bread. Many seeds are difficult for dogs to digest and can cause stomach upset. Additionally, some seeds, such as poppy seeds, are toxic to dogs. Seeded bread may also contain nuts, which can be dangerous for dogs, particularly macadamia nuts, which are highly toxic.
Can dogs eat sourdough bread?
No, dogs should not eat sourdough bread, especially uncooked. The fermentation process that creates sourdough can produce alcohol in a dog’s gut, leading to alcohol poisoning. Additionally, sourdough can be more difficult for dogs to digest. Stick to pet-friendly treats instead!
Can dogs have uncooked bread dough?
Under no circumstances should dogs be given uncooked bread dough. The yeast in bread dough causes it to rise, and if ingested, the dough can continue rising in a dog’s gut, leading to bloating and potentially life-threatening conditions like stomach rupture. Additionally, the fermentation process in the dough can release ethanol, causing alcohol poisoning. If your dog consumes raw dough, contact a veterinarian immediately.
How can I feed my dog bread?
If you decide to feed your dog bread, follow these tips to ensure it’s done safely:
- Keep it plain: only offer plain white or brown bread, avoiding any added ingredients like garlic, seeds, raisins or nuts
- Limit portions: it should be an occasional treat, not a regular part of your dog’s diet. Stick to small pieces or crusts
- Avoid raw dough: always ensure the bread is fully cooked, as raw dough poses significant health risks
Always consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about adding new foods to your dog’s diet
Dogs who don't have a wheat allergy can eat white bread and other plain types of bread in small amounts, but it should not become a regular part of their diet. Bread does not offer any significant nutritional benefits for pets and is high in carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues. It’s important to avoid bread containing toxic ingredients like raisins, garlic, seeds, or nuts and raw bread dough, which can be dangerous for dogs. Always prioritise a healthy, balanced, nutritious diet for your pet, and consult your vet if you’re unsure about introducing new foods or treats.
Carbohydrates that dogs can and can't eat
