Paws for Reaction

Safe and healthy: the right fruits and veggies for your canine companion

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Although their bodies rely mostly on meat proteins there are some fruits and veggies that can boost your dog’s immune system.

It is safe for your dog's diet to contain approximately 20 per cent vegetables. Knowing the best produce to add to your dog’s diet and the proper portion size is the most important thing when considering a change in your dog’s diet. In smaller doses, all of these veggies can be served to dogs as whole foods- boiled or steamed and in some cases raw. Most whole foods are easy to digest while others can be toxic to dogs.

The most common rule is to stay away from Grapes, Raisins, Chocolate, Onions and Garlic- all of these are highly toxic to canines. Broccoli is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables for dogs and it contains cancer-fighting enzymes. However if the pet's Broccoli intake is ten percent or more of the pet's diet, it can cause problems due to the toxic substance isothiocyanate. Excess Broccoli can cause gastrointestinal irritation but in small doses, Broccoli is very good for dogs.

The following is a list of fruits and veggies that are safe and healthy for your dog. Most of them can be found in dry and wet dog food formula's on the market today- I have included some of those selections. These fruits and vegetables contain vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that are important in sustaining a healthy immune system in canines. But remember- when serving cooked produce to dogs always be sure to not exceed the appropriate portions. It is also recommended to remove the skin of the fruit or vegetable. Dogs can have these treats in addition to their high quality, healthy and balanced dog food. If unsure it is always best to consult your veterinarian.

Sweet Potato is often used as a substitute starch in reduced protein dog food’s that cater to dogs with allergies. Sweet potato is a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamins B5 and B6. It is also high in fiber, potassium, and magnesium. Sweet Potato is packed full of nutrition- more nutrition than regular potatoes- as well as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients. If you are looking for an ingredient that is easy on the digestive system and great for sensitive stomachs then Sweet Potato may be perfect for your dog.

Carrots are high in beta carotene and can be found in most dog foods as a result. They are fine to serve to a dog boiled or steamed as long as they are unseasoned and cut into bite-sized portions. Great for the eyes and skin Carrots are rich in vitamins C, A, K and high in fiber and potassium. Rich in antioxidants they can help prevent cancer in dogs. Carrots are a low-calorie treat for dogs that is great for their teeth and canines find them delicious!

Spinach is great for dogs that suffer from inflammatory and cardiovascular problems- as well as cancer- due to the flavonoids and carotenoids it contains. It contains calcium which is great for the growth of puppies that need bone structure support and burns off more calories than adult dogs. Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green that is rich in fiber, potassium and vitamins K, A, and B6. It contains twice as much iron as most other leafy greens.

Asparagus is a great source of vitamin K and vitamin A. It also rich in vitamins B1, B2, C and contains folate, copper, and iron that are great for dogs. In smaller doses, Asparagus is a healthy vegetable to feed your dog but if you feed too much Asparagus its feces will turn green.

Cranberries are the most common berry used to prevent urinary tract infections in humans. They can help balanced urine by lowering the pH of the dog’s urine, therefore, making it more acidic. They DO NOT cure urinary tract infections. Cranberries are also high in antioxidants and minerals as well as vitamins A, C, B1, and B2. They are a great treat for pet and pet parents.

Blueberries are great for dogs as they are rich in antioxidants. Out of all the berries, Blueberries are up there as one of the richest in antioxidants. Blueberries can also reduce tear stains in canines. They work much the same as Cranberries when it comes to overall health in dogs and can be served frozen in small portions.

Pumpkin is fun and delicious but all Halloween memories aside Pumpkin is great for your canine companion. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, diarrhea or constipation Pumpkin can help ease its pain. The fiber contained in Pumpkin absorbs water and helps ease stomach upset. It is also full of vitamin A and antioxidants. It is great for overweight pets as it helps to regulate blood sugar and boosts cardiovascular health. Pumpkin is a great low-calorie treat for your dog that will make it feel full but keep it fit!

Apples are a great source of vitamin A and C making them great for dogs overall health. Red Delicious, Northern Spy, and Ida Red apples, in particular, contain powerful antioxidants. As with most fruits and vegetables, organic is the way to go. But in the case of apples, organic produce contains one-third more antioxidants than regular apples. Most importantly Apples contain pectin, a fiber that creates short-chain fatty acids. This can help get rid of toxins in the intestinal tract, strengthen intestinal muscles and ward off dangerous bacteria.

Bananas are a great fruit to induce energy. Not only are Bananas full of natural sugars that are easy to metabolize and convert into energy but they are also very palatable to dogs. They are loaded with essential amino acids, potassium electrolytes, and minerals. Bananas contain vitamin C and vitamin B6 and can help improve heart function and maintain normal blood pressure. Peel a healthy treat for your dog today!

Cantaloupe is an excellent source of vitamin A because it is high in beta carotene- both of which promote good vision and ocular health. Cantaloupe contains vitamin B6 and vitamin C. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant in dogs that can help prevent cancer. It is a good fruit to feed to dogs that have allergies and upset stomachs as it is commonly hypo-allergenic. Cantaloupe can help mend a dehydrated canine. The melon can be fed as a treat raw in small portions. Do not feed the dog any of the skin on the Cantaloupe.