8 Best Fruits and Veggies For Your Dog

Carrots

Carrots make an excellent snack for your pup. They’re packed with vitamins and minerals your dog needs to stay healthy. This crispy treat contains vitamins B, C, and K. It also has a healthy amount of potassium, magnesium, and manganese. The fiber keeps your dog’s digestion running smoothly, too!

Green beans

Green beans have ample amounts of protein, iron, calcium, and vitamins B6, A, C, and K. They also contain fiber, making your dog feel full for longer. These can be a great alternative to high-calorie treats if you need your dog  to shed a few pounds. Be careful to avoid green beans with additives, like canned beans with added salt or green beans mixed with onion and garlic (which are toxic to dogs). 

Watermelon

If your dog  loves sweet treats try giving them watermelon. Besides being high in Vitamins A, B6, and C, watermelon also contains potassium and a healthy dose of fiber. As the name suggests, watermelon is 90% water, making watermelon a great way for your dog to hydrate and cool off in the summer heat. To prepare watermelon for your dog make sure the pieces are big enough for them to chew and remove as many rinds and seeds as possible. Rinds, seeds, and small pieces can all be choking hazards for your dog or could cause an intestinal blockage.

Blueberries

If you’re looking for a way to keep your furry family member safe from disease, try adding antioxidant-rich blueberries toyour dog diet. Some studies even suggest that blueberries and other antioxidant-rich foods can help prevent cancer in your pup. Blueberries are especially helpful for senior dogs. They’ve been shown to improve night vision, help prevent cell damage, and help with a mental function in aging animals according to Iowa-based veterinarian Ellen Malmanger.

Coconut

Coconut is a great food for dogs. Coconut oil, milk, and meat are all safe for canine consumption. Just keep your dog away from the outside shell as it can be a choking hazard. Coconut has anti-inflammatory properties for both humans and dogs alike. It’s also rich in lauric acid, which can fight off viruses and other infections. Coconut contains antioxidants that will help boost your dog’s immune system. As an added bonus, coconut oil promotes a soft and shiny coat and could alleviate troublesome skin conditions.

Apples

This crunchy, sweet snack is a favorite among many dogs. Thankfully it’s also really healthy too! Apples are a perfect source of vitamin C, fiber, calcium, and phosphorus. You should not feed your dog  a whole apple because the core and seeds can be choking hazards. Cut the apple into slices and you’ll be good to go!

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are especially great for dogs on a diet. They have a very high water content so you can feed plenty of them to your dog without them putting on the pounds. Keep in mind though that pickles are NOT safe for dogs because they are often made with salt and spices that could be poisonous to dogs. Cucumbers aren’t as high in nutrients as other veggies on this list, but they can be a great hydrating snack for your pup.

Strawberries

I’ve saved the best for last. Strawberries are one of the best fruits you can feed your dog for a number of reasons. First, they are very high in phytonutrients, which can have a number of great health benefits:

• Kills cancer cells
• Soothes inflammation
• Promotes a healthier gut
• Supports the liver

But wait, that’s not all! Strawberries in particular have a ton of benefits themselves:

• Slows down the aging process
• Boosts the immune system
• Whitens your pooch’s teeth
• Low calories make them great for weight management
• Packed full of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C

To make strawberries safer for your pup to eat, wash them thoroughly and cut them up into smaller pieces. You can even make some yummy homemade treats with them!