5 Desi Snacks Dogs Can’t Resist (and the Shocking Truth About Which Are Safe)

Every desi household has snacks on the table. From pakoras to samosas to hot rotis, the kitchen is always full of flavors. And when you sit down to eat, your furry friend waits right there with big eyes. It is hard to say no when your dog begs for a bite.
But as tasty as these snacks are for us, not every desi snack is safe for dogs. Some can upset their stomach, and some can even make them very sick. At the same time, they can be given a few items in small amounts without causing them any harm. It is important to know the difference in that case. It helps you show love to your dog without putting their health at risk. Let us see the five most common desi snacks dogs beg for and find out what is safe and what is not.


Samosas are one of the most loved snacks in India. The spicy filling and fried crust make them smell great. Dogs too cannot resist the smell. But samosas are not safe for them. They are fried in oil and full of spices. Onions, garlic, and chili can upset your dog’s stomach and even cause long term health problems. It is better to keep this treat completely away from your pup.
If you really want your pet to enjoy something similar, you can give a small piece of plain boiled potato without salt or masala. It has the same soft texture without the dangerous parts. Your pet will enjoy the taste while staying safe.

Pakoras are another snack that dogs stretch their paws for. The crispy crunchy smell makes them very excited. But pakoras too are fried and full of spices. Besan itself is not very harmful, but when mixed with chili and deep oil it becomes bad for dogs. Eating it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or just make them feel very tired.
A healthy choice is to give your dog pumpkin or carrot that is lightly steamed. Both have a soft bite just like pakora inside. This satisfies their craving without the unhealthy coating.

Roti is a very common snack dogs beg for because it is simple and plain. Many pet parents give their dogs a small piece of roti during dinner. The truth is that plain roti itself is not harmful if your dog eats it rarely. But too much roti can cause weight gain because it is high in wheat and carbs. Dogs need more protein than grains in their diet.
If you wish to share a bite, a small roti piece is fine once in a while. But make sure it has no ghee, no butter, and no stuffing. Never make roti a daily treat for your pet.

In almost every home, packets and chips are open. The salty crunch makes your dog very curious. These snacks contain a very high amount of salt, oil and preservatives. Dogs cannot stomach salt the same way we do. Even a handful can cause them to be bloated or cause them high blood pressure if eaten often.
The best swap is a crunchy cucumber slice or apple slice given plain. Dogs love the crispy sound, and it keeps them hydrated too. This way you match the texture of namkeen and chips without harming your furry friend.

Many dogs run fast when they see something sweet on the table. Jalebi or Peda or any mithai is very tempting. But Indian sweets are full of sugar, ghee and sometimes artificial colors. These are very bad for a dog’s teeth, liver, and pancreas. Too much sugar can easily make dogs obese and diabetic.
If you want to give a sweet moment to your dog, go for a piece of ripe banana or plain mango slice in small quantities. Dogs enjoy natural fruit sugars, and these do not hurt them when given safely.
Our culture has so many tasty foods and we love sharing everything with those we love. But when it comes to dogs, love should mean keeping them safe. Most desi snacks are deep fried, too salty, too sugary, or too spicy. They please the tongue but harm the stomach and health of pets.

The good news is you can always find a healthy swap from fruits or veggies that your dog can enjoy. Simple plain foods can make your pet just as happy. Always remember that the begging eyes may be strong but your care and knowledge should be stronger. Your dog trusts you with their whole life. Choose wisely what you share from your plate. That is the real treat for them.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of Indian food can be shared with dogs?
   Some simple, safe desi options are boiled potatoes, plain rice, pumpkin, carrots, cucumber and small banana slices, in small amounts though.
2. How often should one give their dog Indian treats?
   Treat Indian snacks very rarely and in tiny amounts. Most human foods are not made for a dog’s digestion.
3. What should one do if their dog eats spicy food?
   If your dog eats spicy food, watch for vomiting or diarrhea. Give water and visit a vet if symptoms continue.