Best Fruits and Vegetables for Dogs

We all want is best for our pets and keeping their weight down is something that can go a long way to increasing their quality of (and length of) life. But, what kinds of treats are best for our dogs?

Fresh fruit and vegetables as treats are not only better for your dogs waistline, but excellent for their overall health. Here are some guidelines you can use to select the best fruits and vegetables as snacks for your omnivorous friends.

Orange, red and yellow fruits and vegetables are often touted as the “best treats” for dogs because they often contain antioxidants that reduce the risk of cancer. However, it’s important to do your homework on each ingredient. Start slow and see how your pets tolerate the treats.

 Also, while most of these fruits and vegetables can be eaten raw, some pets require you to do a bit more preparation – particularly if they have sensitive digestive systems.

For example, unlike humans, dogs don’t have the enzymes to break down the cellulose walls making the outer layers of some produce indigestible to canines. Try preparing fruits and vegetables in a food processor or blender to create a thick pulp that can then be dried using a processor or oven to make your own treats and ease digestion by removing the outer skin. (Be sure to wash all fruits and remove seeds and pits before feeding to pets.) 

Here are 10 fruits and 10 vegetables your dog will can enjoy…

[heading style=”2″ color=”#996633″ style_color=”#996633″]10 Fruits Your Dog May Love:[/heading]

[list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#006666″]

• Apple
• Apricot
• Banana
• Blueberries
• Cantaloupe
• Cranberries
• Mango
• Oranges
• Pear
• Pineapple
• Raspberries

[/list] [note type=”danger” icon=”yes”]Avoid: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney damage in cats and dogs, so avoid feeding these entirely. Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and grapefruit as well as persimmons can cause upset stomach.[/note]

[heading style=”2″ color=”#996633″ style_color=”#996633″]10 Vegetables Your Dog May Love:[/heading]

Consider steaming or boiling cruciferous veggies (such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage) as they may cause stomach upset when raw and are much easier to digest when they are cooked.

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• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Cauliflower
• Celery
• Cucumber
• Green beans
• Pumpkin
• Spinach
• Sweet Potatoes

[/list] [note type=”danger” icon=”yes”]Avoid: Never feed your pet onions or garlic as they are toxic in all forms: cooked, raw, and even in powder form. These cause damage to the red blood cells. Rhubarb and wild mushrooms also contain toxins. Its also best to avoid corn as it is a filler and some pets are sensitive to it.[/note]

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Images courtesy of Wikipedia Commons