VEGGIE TAILS: ARE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES GOOD FOR YOUR DOG?

We’re often asked: Should you feed your dog fruits and vegetables? The answer is yes! Not only will the right snack have your dog begging for more, they’re also full of vitamins and essential nutrients that can improve your pup’s health and comfort. We’ve made a list of some of our dogs’ favorite fruits and vegetables.

FORBIDDEN FRUITS (AND VEGETABLES)

First things first: don’t poison your pupper. Grapes, tomatoes and mushrooms? All toxic to dogs. Before you feed anything to your best friend, check to make sure it’s safe for them first. The American Kennel Club (AKC) keeps a great list of toxic foods here. If you suspect your dog has eaten something toxic, call your vet ASAP. The faster you address the issue, the better. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s talk about the wonders of fruits and veggies and what they can do for your pup.

BEST FRUITS FOREVER

Fruits are full of helpful vitamins. Apples aren’t just a human doctor repellant. They’re full of fiber and Vitamin C for your pup’s eyesight. If your furry friend is finding summer a bit too toasty, how about some cantaloupe? Cantaloupe melons are packed with Vitamin A and contain beta carotene which helps reduce the risk of cancer and prevent cell damage. Berries are also a great choice. For extra Vitamin C, give your dog a small amount of strawberry. Just be careful not to overdo it, as large quantities can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Blueberries are one of our favorite superfoods because their tannins help prevent urinary tract infections and high resveratrol levels can combat heart disease and prevent cancer. Just remember that fruits tend to have a higher sugar content than the rest of your dog’s diet (that’s why they taste so good).  Serve them as a treat rather than a staple.

VEG OUT

Vegetables tend to be higher in fiber and carbohydrates, supporting your pup’s nutrition. Pumpkin in-particular is a popular option to increase your dog’s intake of soluble fiber, helping with stool formation and contributing to regular, more comfortable bowel movements. Similarly, sweet potatoes are one of our favorite superfoods. That’s why we pair them with duck or turkey in our Whole Jerky Bites. They contain plenty of vitamins A, B-6, C and E and are also a source of calcium, iron, potassium, folate, thiamine and iron.

PICKY POOCH?

Every dog is different. That’s part of why we love them so much. So if your pup doesn't like something (or his stomach doesn't), don’t get concerned. Just try another option. And make sure you introduce dietary changes slowly and carefully, especially if you have a breed with sensitive stomachs like a golden retriever or shiba inu.