As responsible dog owners, we all know that not all human food is safe for our dogs. It’s so hard to resist a dog that begs and whines for a little taste of our food, but a minor mistake could compromise your dog’s health. The good news is, there are some human foods dogs can eat. Some of us may wonder, do dogs need vegetables? Are all vegetables and fruits safe?
You’d be glad to know that there are lots of yummy fruits and vegetables that are safe for them to eat. They can be given as treats and they are filled with vitamins and nutrients.
Here are 18 fruits and veggies to give your pets.
Apples
“Can an apple a day keep the vet away?”
Many people like eating an apple with peanut butter, and so do dogs! Apples are a nutritious snack for your dog.
They contain vitamin A and vitamin C, along with fiber. Make sure your pooch doesn’t get the core or the seeds.
Pineapple
Here’s a surprise! This is another fruit that is fine for your furry friend as long as they don’t eat the core or the seeds.
Also, don’t let them eat the skin. Pineapple contains bromelain to help with protein absorption.
Celery
Celery is okay for your dogs. Though, remember to give them small pieces due to the stringy texture. It contains vitamin A, vitamin, B, and vitamin C. It’s a natural way to freshen your pup’s breath too!
Carrots
Can dogs eat carrots raw? Crunchy carrots are a great veggie to add to your dog’s diet or to use as treats. They contain fiber and beta-carotene. They are very low in calories!
Cooked Potatoes
Did you know that cooked potatoes are another great option when you’re looking for a tasty snack to share with your puppy?
Make sure they’re cooked because raw potatoes are toxic. They contain iron too!
Sweet Potatoes
Did you know that many dog foods contain sweet potatoes?
They are healthy for your dog and quite tasty too! They contain fiber, beta-carotene, vitamin B-6, and vitamin C. Again, these potatoes need to be cooked as well.
Peaches
Peaches are a tasty treat to share with your dog! Yummy!
They are filled with fiber and vitamin A, which means they’re great for both humans and canines. Just remember to skip canned peaches because they are high in sugar.
Additionally, your dog shouldn’t eat the peach pits because they contain cyanide.
Watermelon
Who doesn’t love fresh watermelon? But you may be asking, Is it safe for dogs to eat watermelon? And the answer is, yes. Your puppy will surely love the crunchy and refreshing fruit.
Watermelon has vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium in it. Go ahead and treat him with watermelon, but make sure to remove the seeds and rind. They are unsafe for dogs.
Cucumbers
Do dogs need vegetables like cucumbers? While they don’t need them, they do make a good treat.
They’re a perfect summery snack, and they are full of vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and biotin. They’re good for your dog’s weight too.
Blueberries
If your dog begs for fresh blueberries, go ahead and give him some.
Blueberries are another antioxidant-rich treat. They are also superfoods, which are extremely healthy. Your furry friend will love these healthy berries!
Pears
Can dogs eat pears? If your pup needs some extra vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and copper, pears are the perfect snack! Again, cores and seeds should be avoided, but the rest of the fruit is totally safe. A yummy treat that’s full of vitamins!
Mangos
You may be asking, “Most mangoes are sweet, so can dogs have mangoes?”
Mangoes are full of vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium. Make sure your pup only enjoys the delicious fruit in moderation! Another reminder – the skin, seeds, and pits aren’t safe to eat.
Bananas
Your pup might love bananas for their sweet taste. Who wouldn’t?
They have potassium, vitamins, fiber, and biotin in them. Just keep the bananas to a minimum due to the sugar levels!
Strawberries
You my be wondering, “Can dogs eat frozen strawberries?”
And the answer is, of course! This commonly loved berry is perfect for dogs and people alike! It contains fiber and vitamin C. Keep in mind that they are filled with sugars so feed them organic and frozen strawberries and not those packed with syrup.
Green Beans
If you slice green beans into small pieces, your pup can snack on them! They contain vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and fiber. Some pet owners even top their dog’s dinner with these. Yummy!
Broccoli
You can cook broccoli or serve it to your dog raw.
But be cautious, there are times when broccoli causes tummy aches, so make sure you give them small servings without the stalk. Broccoli contains vitamin C and fiber.
Spinach
Spinach for dogs is an excellent addition to their diet. It’s a great way to keep your dog nice and healthy. It contains iron and can prevent cancer. It’s easiest for dogs to digest it if it’s steamed.
Pumpkin
Your puppy will love the taste of pumpkin! Canned or cooked pumpkin contains fiber and beta-carotene. Make sure you avoid the seasoned varieties. Always opt for fresh and organic.
Do Dogs Need Vegetables: Takeaway
Do dogs need vegetables and fruits? They do, but in moderation. We also need to monitor how they react to each food that we give them. Let’s avoid stuffing them with many treats a day.
A different healthy and sweet treat a day will make your dog extra happy.
Source: I Heart Dogs