9 Fruit and Veggie Snacks to Feed Your Dog
We always hear about the people foods not to feed our four-legged friends, but there are lots of tasty human treats that are actually good for dogs. Next time, instead of pulling out the petstore-bought snacks, try these delicious fruits and veggies. And remember, your dog’s digestive system is even more sensitive than yours so get them the good stuff and go organic!
Apple
Along with various nutrients good for your pet, apples also improve the intestinal muscle’s ability to push waste through the intestines and get rid of toxins in the gut. Before giving one to your dog, core the apple because the seeds can be harmful in large amounts.
Broccoli
Broccoli contains over thirty-three cancer preventative compounds, and research suggests that these compounds prevent carcinogens from forming, stop them from getting to target cells and boost enzymes that detoxify carcinogens. Not too shabby! But treat it as a snack. Don’t allow it to exceed 10% of your dog’s diet because an excess amount can cause gastrointestinal issues for your pup.
Carrot
No need to chop them up! Serve whole or baby carrots, and your dog will enjoy the fun of chewing on them. Rich in many, many vitamins and nutrients, carrots have repeatedly shown to nourish the optic nerve and significantly improve eyesight.
Celery
Looking for a natural way to deal with your dog’s anxiety? Celery might help. If not, at least she’s getting a healthy snack packed with calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron and vitamins.
Grapefruit
Among other benefits, an ingredient found in the seeds kills strep, staph, salmonella, e.coli, candida, herpes, influenza, parasites, fungi and traveler’s diarrhea, and is used as an antibiotic, anti fungal, antiprotozoan and antiviral. But be careful! Start with small amounts since all citrus fruits can have a laxative effect, particularly for dogs that are not used to eating them.
Orange
Oranges strengthen the immune system, support connective tissues and promote overall good health, while protecting against cancer and fighting viral infections. Like with the grapefruits, start with small amounts to get your dog’s system used to the fruit.
Pear
Fresh pears have potassium, which is important in maintaining heartbeat, muscle contraction, nerve transmission and carbohydrate metabolism.
Pumpkin
Puree some fresh pumpkin flesh, or you can stock up on canned pumpkin with no sugars added. The next time your dog suffers from constipation or diarrhea, add some to his normal meal. Think of it as Pepto Bismol for pooches.
Spinach
Iron, antioxidants, carotenes, fiber, calcium, potassium and more, spinach is one of the most valuable things your dog can eat. It’s particularly good for dogs that are weak, anemic or nursing.
Remember, all changes in a dog’s diet can cause problems, so be sure to introduce new foods gradually. If your dog has any special dietary needs or medical issues, always consult your vet before changing your dog’s diet.
Photo Credit: Michael Budde
