Key Takeaways
- Bread is devoid of nutritional value for dogs – it shouldn’t be a part of their regular diet. ⚠️
- Bread with certain ingredients may be harmful for dogs. ⚠️
- Avoid giving bread to dogs which are overweight or obese, as it’s full of starch. ⚠️
- Some types of bread are more harmful than others. ⚠️
Pros and Cons of Feeding Your Dog Bread
We can’t imagine a breakfast without bread or another kind of starchy goodness. But can dogs eat bread? Here are some potential benefits and drawbacks.
Why is bread not good for dogs? Although technically not bad for dogs, bread isn’t exactly the best thing you could be feeding them, either. It doesn’t have a lot going on nutritionally speaking – which means that there’s really no reason why you’d want your pup to eat it. Here is more:
| PROS ✔️ | CONS ✖️ |
| Some types are a good source of fiber, which helps keep your dog’s digestive tract regular. | One problem with bread products is their high starch content, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems in dogs. |
| Bread is low in fat and contains no cholesterol, making it a great option for dogs who need to lose weight or have heart disease. | You do want to make sure the bread does not have poppy seeds on top, since they may contain a toxin that could make him very ill if ingested in large quantities over time (even though this happens rarely). |
| Bread can be useful when trying to get medicine down your dog’s throat because most dogs will eat anything with bread around it! | Raisins are another popular addition found in bread that should be avoided at all costs! Raisins contain a compound called glycoside, which can cause renal failure in dogs. Symptoms of renal failure include vomiting, diarrhea, and increased thirst and urination. In severe cases, seizures may also occur. |
| Bread is a good source of carbohydrates for dogs, which gives them energy to play and run around. | Some bread and baked goods contain xylitol, which can be toxic for dogs. |
Editor’s Note
Guys! Watch out! When a dog ingests bread, the yeast in the bread dough begins to multiply and ferment in the stomach. As this process continues, ethanol is produced. If a large amount of bread is consumed, it can result in alcohol toxicosis, which results in clinical signs such as drunkenness, lack of coordination and vomiting. In severe cases, coma or even death may occur. Oh, and one more thing, never give your dog moldy bread. Why? Check here.
Types of Bread That Are Safe for Dogs
Whole Wheat Bread
It’s a type of bread made with whole wheat flour. This means that the bran and the germ have been left intact in the flour. It is a healthier option for dogs because it contains more fiber and nutrients. It also has a lower glycemic index, which means that it does not raise blood sugar levels as quickly. It’s a good option for dogs who need to lose weight or who have diabetes.
Looking for great breads for your pooch? Visit a dog bakery! They will provide you with the best goodies with no harmful content!
Rye Bread
Rye bread is made with rye flour. This means that the bran and the germ have been left intact in the flour. Rye bread is high in fiber and nutrients, which makes it a healthy option for dogs. It also has a lower glycemic index than white bread, so it is a good choice for dogs who have diabetes or are trying to lose weight.
Kinds of Bread That Are Bad for Dogs
White Bread
This is a type of bread made with refined wheat flour. This means that the bran and the germ have been removed from the flour. It is high in carbohydrates and sugar, which is why it is not recommended for dogs. Consuming too much plain white bread can lead to weight gain and other health problems in dogs.
Banana Bread
Banana bread is a type of sweet bread that is made with mashed bananas and wheat flour. Wheat flour can cause digestive problems in dogs, such as diarrhea and vomiting.
If Fido loves bananas, why not try this snack:
French Bread
This is a type of crusty bread that is made with wheat flour. Because French bread is made with wheat flour, it is not safe for dogs to eat. Wheat flour can cause digestive problems in dogs, such as diarrhea, bloat, and vomiting.
Hamburger Buns
Because hamburger buns are made with refined white flour, they are not a healthy option for dogs. Refined white flour is high in carbohydrates and sugar, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems in dogs.
How Much Bread Can a Dog Eat?
So, can dogs eat bread and how much bread is too much? A whole slice of bread is not recommended as a treat for your dog. However, small pieces of bread will unlikely harm your dog. If your dog has eaten the whole loaf, you should monitor the dog for any signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Too much bread at once can have serious consequences that shouldn’t be ignored.
Time to Conclude: Can Dogs Eat Bread?
Can dogs eat bread? Can dogs eat toast? If your pup loves it, as a special treat you can occasionally give them small amounts of certain types. Just be sure to avoid any that contain raisins or poppy seeds – these are toxic for dogs! But while bread may have some carbohydrates and fiber benefits, it doesn’t provide many other nutrients. For their daily needs, the best thing is still to feed them quality dog food.
Lucas Taylor is a veterinary assistant, freelance journalist and single dad who lives in the suburbs with his three pups: Ruby, Nala, and Woody. He has one cat named Pepper. When he’s not writing articles or working at the vet clinic, Lucas loves cooking French cuisine for himself and friends at home. One of Lucas’ favorite things to do is paddleboard with his son Noah and their canine companions. Pepper is the homebody of the bunch – she loves chilling on the couch.
