Limiting Your Cockapoo’s Dinner Leftovers

It’s hard to resist those big, pleading Cockapoo eyes staring up at you during dinner, hoping for a bite of whatever’s on your plate. Their charm is undeniable, but when it comes to sharing your meal, it’s important to think twice. As I finished supper tonight and looked over to see our Cockapoo all eyes, hopefully watching to see if I’d give in and let her have the last bite on my daughter’s plate. While the occasional safe treat might seem harmless, regularly giving your Cockapoo dinner leftovers can lead to a range of health issues. Yes, I gave in…one bit isn’t the problem. It’s the constant snacking that develops into a problem.

1. Many Human Foods Are Unsafe for Dogs

Not all foods that are safe for humans are safe for Cockapoos. In fact, some common ingredients can be toxic or harmful to dogs, including:

- Onions and garlic: Can cause damage to red blood cells, leading to anemia.

- Grapes and raisins: Can cause sudden kidney failure.

- Salty or spicy foods: Can upset your dog’s stomach or even lead to sodium poisoning.

- Bones (especially cooked chicken ones): Can splinter and cause internal injuries.

Even if your meal doesn’t contain these specific ingredients, sauces, seasonings, and hidden additives might pose a risk.

2. Risk of Obesity

Cockapoos are small to medium-sized dogs, and it doesn’t take much for extra calories to add up. It's important to limit dinner leftovers with your cockapoo. Regularly feeding them table scraps can easily push them over their daily calorie limit, leading to weight gain. Obesity in Cockapoos increases the risk of:

- Joint problems (like hip dysplasia)

- Diabetes

- Heart disease

- Reduced lifespan

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for their long-term well-being.

3. Upset Stomachs and Allergies

Cockapoos can have sensitive stomachs. Rich, fatty, or spicy foods can cause digestive upset, leading to:

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Gas or bloating

Additionally, Cockapoos are prone to food allergies or intolerances. Introducing too many new foods through leftovers can trigger reactions like itchy skin, ear infections, or gastrointestinal issues.

4. Encourages Begging Behavior

Feeding your Cockapoo from the dinner table can quickly create a begging habit. Once they associate your meals with treats, they’re more likely to sit by your side, paw at you, or bark for food. This behavior can be hard to break and may make mealtime stressful for everyone.

5. Imbalance in Nutrition

Your Cockapoo’s diet should be carefully balanced with the right mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Random table scraps can throw off this balance, leaving your pup lacking essential nutrients or getting too much of the wrong ones.

What to Do Instead

If you want to share a special treat with your Cockapoo, opt for dog-safe alternatives:

- Carrot sticks or cucumber slices

- Plain cooked chicken or turkey (no seasoning)

- Blueberries or apple slices (without seeds)

These healthy options provide a tasty snack without the risks.

Final Thoughts

While the occasional bite of plain meat or veggie might be fine, making dinner leftovers a habit can harm your Cockapoo’s health. It’s always best to stick to a well-balanced diet tailored for their needs. If you want to show them extra love, reach for a healthy dog treat, your pup will still feel spoiled, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re keeping them safe and healthy.