First and foremost, it’s important to remember that a dog is a carnivore. Although around 15,000 years have passed since the domestication of the first dog, its digestive system is still adapted to processing meat as the main component of its diet. Feeding a dog bread does not provide sufficient nutrients.
Composition of Bread
Commercially produced bread is made for human consumption. For dogs, it contains too much salt and also preservatives that are not always listed in the ingredients. Bread is often made from wheat, which is the most common allergen. Grains are poor in proteins that dogs absolutely need. Also, feeding dogs bread contradicts the BARF method, which is based on natural nutrition. A dog or a wolf in the wild would never encounter bread. Additionally, bread can cause bloating in dogs because it contains yeast, which produces gas in the digestive tract. While not all dogs react to bread negatively, those with digestive issues could be harmed by even a small slice.
Unlike cocoa, bread is not poisonous to dogs. However, an owner should think carefully before giving bread to their dog. It’s similar to grapes: dogs shouldn’t have them, but a few won’t cause harm. Some owners regularly feed bread to their dogs, claiming it cleans their teeth, but with the BARF method, raw bones are better for dental hygiene.
Other Foods Unsuitable for Dogs
Other foods that dogs should not consume, or only in limited quantities, include garlic, onions, avocado, macadamia nuts, grapes, chocolate, cooked and baked bones, human food, sweets, legumes, green tomatoes, and all poisonous mushrooms or plants. Beyond these, dogs can eat a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and grains. Meat from different types of animals should form the basis of a dog's diet.
Feeding bread to a dog is a decision every owner must make. As an occasional treat, it won’t hurt, but it doesn’t offer any significant benefits for the dog. There are more beneficial foods that can positively enrich a dog’s diet. A good alternative, for example, is herbs.
