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
[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.
[list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#006666″]- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Celery
- Cucumber
- Green beans
- Pumpkin
- Spinach
- Sweet Potatoes