French Toast For Dogs

They say that variety is the spice of life, and I think that applies to dogs as well. Or at least it should. I am constantly amazed that the notion of feeding our dogs “kibble, only kibble, and always the same kibble for as long as they shall live” ever got off the ground. Let alone that pet care professionals actually advise such a feeding regiment.

Proof of very good, very savvy pet food marketing, I guess. But can you imagine being forced to eat the same thing day after day after day? At the very least I would like to see dog owners being encouraged to top their canine kibble off with something different every now and then.

My dogs eat a variety of healthy foods, though I am very careful when offering something new. In that case, I err on the side of caution and begin by giving just very small amounts until I know their tummies can handle it.  For the most part, however, they eat from a wide range of foods that they are all familiar and fine with; I just mix them up so there is variety.

This morning I topped off The Fab Five’s breakfast with some yummy French toast. Doggie style, of course (which means NO NUTMEG as nutmeg can cause seizures in dogs).

Ingredients:

• 1 egg
• 2 egg whites
• 1/2 cup 1% milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 slices whole grain bread

Whisk egg and egg whites until foamy. Add milk, vanilla and cinnamon; whisk again.

Use non-fat spray to coat your skillet (a non-stick grill is great too!), and warm over medium-low heat. Dip the bread into the egg mixture, turning to coat thoroughly, and let any excess mixture drip back into the bowl.

Cook your coated bread slices in the hot skillet, turning until both sides are nicely browned, about 2 minutes each side.

And voilà!

I make French toast that way for myself and the rest of the family, so it’s easy to just use more of the ingredients and be able to include the dogs.  Just NO NUTMEG!!

Of course dogs don’t need syrup or sugary jams, or anything like that either. If you want to top your dog’s toast off with something a little extra special, use pieces of sliced fruit (apples, bananas, strawberries), a dollop of plain yogurt*,  or drizzle a bit of organic honey. Just keep it natural and healthy!

* When using yogurt for dogs, make sure it’s not artificially sweetened. Artificial sweeteners are not good for dogs, and some are toxic. Naturally sweetened with honey is the best, and I always make sure it’s probiotic as well.