Being a dog mom or dad can be a tough job. Although many people may get a pet as an alternative to having kids, they quickly find out that it actually can be just as tough of a job. (Without taking into account raising human teenagers, of course). Dogs demand a lot of attention, exercise, and most importantly - a healthy diet paired with a slow feed dog bowl to keep them out of the dog doctors office. With many different dog foods to choose from, it can be hard knowing which is best for your dog. On top of dog food, there are also human foods that can be good for - or hurt your beloved best friend. Here are foods that you should NEVER give your dog, and four healthy ones to bring into their diets this New Year!:

1. Chocolate

This might be a ‘no-brainer’ for some of you, as this is the most common knowledge of what not to feed your dog. Chocolate contains methylxanthines which is a property found in chocolate. Fun fact; the darker the chocolate, the more methylxanthines. Chocolate can cause seizures, vomiting, muscle tremors, and in some cases, death. Be careful with this one!

2. Cheese

This is a shocking one because I know many dog owners who feed their dogs cheese, and they seem to be fine. Plus, cheese is definitely a favorite treat for dogs, so I know many dog owners who use cheese to bribe their pets. Stop this! Although cheese isn’t as bad as chocolate, cheese is bad for your pets health. Cheese has sugars and fats that dogs can not break down in their bellies, so even though they can manage eating it, it will be bad for them in the long run. If you notice your dog vomiting, having diarrhea, or having bad gas, it could definitely be the cheese you’ve bribed them with.

3. Garlic

Garlic has toxic compounds in it that dogs cannot handle. While garlic is very good for humans, it’s has the opposite effect on dogs. Garlic can damage the red blood cells in your dog, which will cause them to be lazier and want to move around less. In severe cases, a blood transfusion might be necessary.

4. Avocado

Yes, the beloved $1 extra for Guacamole at Chipotle that is worth every penny is detrimental to your dog. Beware! Although Avocado seems harmless given its mild spice and fatty texture, it contains a toxin for dogs called persin which can cause fluid buildup in your dogs chest.

Your New Bribery:

Not all human food is bad for dogs. In fact, lot’s of human foods are actually good for your pet, and you don’t always have to stick to the regimen of only feeding them dog food. I know some people who never even give their dogs dog food, and they cook them a meal every night! Here are a few foods you can treat your dog with:

1. Peanut Butter

Lucky for your dog, peanut butter is okay for them to eat! I know you secretly shovel spoonfuls of peanut butter in your mouth when you get hungry, and you can let your dog in to join you on this one.

2. Chicken

This is a great alternative if you're out of dog food. Dog's love chicken, plus it's good for them and full of protein. Just make sure you give it to them cooked, and without any harmful seasoning.

3. Carrots

Not only is this veggie good for your dogs health, but it's good for their teeth as well! Carrots are full of vitamins and minerals, and although your dog might not love carrots as much as the peanut butter, they'll still like this treat.

4. Eggs

Another tasty treat for your pup. Dogs love eggs given their high protein content, and eggs are okay to give to your dog in moderation. According to the American Veterinary Association, just be sure that you don't give them uncooked eggs to reduce the chance of your dog contracting salmonella.

Keep up the good work, dog moms and dads!