Dog ID Collar has come up with the top fruits and vegetables safe for dogs. A healthy dog is a happy dog, and not only do our embroidered dog collars spoil your dog, but so do dog friendly vegetables.
Maybe you are trying to find some healthy ideas for your pup? We were too and we kept wondering “can our dog eat that?” when considering all of the people food in our kitchen. So after researching the subject, we discovered that many fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs.
Healthy, yes, but Moderation is the Key
When deciding to give your fur baby fruits and veggies, remember that moderation is important. We all know that too much of anything, no matter how healthy, can result in stomach problems, especially if your dog isn’t used to it.
Even though fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs, moderation is key. Fruits can have a lot of natural sugar, so it is best to give only a few small pieces at a serving. Most fruits and vegetables are naturally high in fiber. That may be great for us, but too much fiber can give dogs digestive issues. Fruits and vegetables are also generally low in calories, but they add up fast. Finally, when giving your dog fruits and vegetables, be certain you wash them thoroughly and remove any seeds.
The Benefits of Serving Fruits and Vegetables Safe for Dogs
Giving fruits and veggies as treats for your dog controls the portion size (preparing homemade treats is a great way of controlling portion sizes). We generally do not see many store-bought treats that are sold in small bite sizes.
The other great benefit, naturally, is knowing what your dog is eating. We don’t worry about chemicals or other ingredients that we’re not familiar with. We love giving fruits and veggies as treats. Why? Because many fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs, they are healthy, low in calories, and we normally have plenty on hand.
Here are twenty fruits and veggies safe for dogs:
1. Carrots
One of the most simple fruits and vegetables safe for dogs to prepare. Carrots are completely safe for dogs. If you would rather not peel and chop, you can opt for giving your dog baby carrots. They’re high in fiber, very low in calories, and they are a good source of vitamin A and beta carotene. Dogs love the crunchiness, and humans love that they are good for dogs’ teeth. Carrots are rich with carbohydrates, so again, moderation is key.
2. Snap Peas
Sugar snap peas might be our dogs’ favorite treat, and they are rich in nutrients. All they need is a quick rinsing and you’re all set. Snap peas are a great source of protein, fiber, folate, phosphorus, zinc, potassium, manganese, and vitamins C & K. Snap peas are overall great dog friendly vegetables.
3. Green Beans
Green beans are a good source of vitamins and fiber. Green beans are also used for good diet food for your four-legged best friend!
4. Apples
We also love giving our dog apples as a special treat. They’re cheap and we always have plenty of apples handy. They’re packed with vitamins A & C and are high in fiber. Caution, apples usually have been subjected to a high concentration of pesticide. Make sure you wash the apples thoroughly before giving them to your dog. It’s best to also remove the insides (core, stem, and seeds) too.
5. Blueberries
Fruits and vegetables safe for dogs also include human’s favorite fruit - blueberries! Blueberries can be really messy but it's fine to serve them frozen. They make a great treat if you are training your dog. They are small and perfect for small rewards. Blueberries are low in fat, high in fiber, and contain vitamin C. Be careful as blueberries can leave stains. We recommend serving them outside.
6. Sweet Potatoes
We love sweet potatoes in our home. The entire family loves them. They also make wonderful doggie treats. They are terrific sources of fiber, potassium, manganese and vitamins A, B5, B6, and C. Try baking them! Chop them into bite-sized snacks or give them in larger “chips.”
7. Watermelon
During the summer, we have a lot of watermelon in the house. The Farmer’s Market sells us a couple each weekend. They’re a great source of potassium, magnesium, vitamins A & C and water (about 92%). Only give your dog watermelon without seeds and without the rind.
8. Strawberries
What fruit is safe for dogs to eat? A fan favorite - strawberries! Dogs love them too.They are rich in fiber, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, and iodine. They also have omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins B1, B6, C, and K. Just remove the leafy top and cut them in half and let your dog enjoy.
9. Bananas
Bananas make a great training treat. We dice and freeze them for later. They’re high in fiber, potassium, and magnesium. They also give your dog vitamins B6 & C.
10. Cantaloupe
It was surprising to see how much dogs like cantaloupe. Cantaloupe has vitamins A, B, and C, and also contains beta carotene and potassium. Again, remove the rind and all of the seeds.
11. Celery
Celery is a wonderful source of vitamins A, B, and C, iron, calcium, potassium, sodium, and phosphorus. Simply wash and chop.
12. Cucumber
Here’s another healthy alternative that is also low in calories and a part of the fruits and vegetables safe for dogs. Cucumbers are a great way for your dog to get vitamin K. Make them into dog treats by cutting them in half lengthwise and removing the seeds. Wash the bite-sized pieces before serving.
13. Pumpkin
Pumpkin has an abundance of benefits for your dog. Maybe that’s why it’s called the “superfruit.” Pumpkin is low in calories and has plenty of vitamin A and C, potassium, beta carotene, calcium, and zinc. It really doesn’t matter to your dog if it is canned or cooked fresh. Dogs can even have the pumpkin seeds which makes pumpkin a great option for the fruits and vegetables safe for dogs.
14. Broccoli
Broccoli is a wonderful food for your dog in moderation. It’s high in fiber, vitamin C, but it also contains isothiocyanates. Isothiocyanate is a chemical known to cause stomach upset in some dogs. In small quantities, though, it’s okay to give your dog broccoli.
15. Brussel Sprouts
Can you believe that Brussel sprouts are even fine for dogs? They contain rich nutrients and dietary fiber. Beware, however, they could cause your dog to have gas, so serve them in moderation and keep your distance.
16. Zucchini
Zucchini can be another low-calorie food for dogs. They contain vitamins B & C and have plenty of dietary fiber. Try zucchini with your dog. He might like the change of pace.
17. Raspberries
Raspberries are great in moderation, too. They have very few calories and are very high in vitamin C and fiber.
18. Pineapple
Pineapple is very healthy for dogs and contains a good deal of vitamin C. Due to the high fiber content, moderation is important with this dog friendly fruit.
19. Pears
Pears are another healthy dog treat. They also contain vitamins C & K. Be sure to remove the pit and seeds before giving it to your pooch.
20. Spinach
Spinach is great for dogs. It’s a wonderful source of iron, vitamin K and antioxidants.
Which Fruits and Vegetables Does Your Dog Enjoy?
So if your dog goes bananas for carrots and snap peas, try out our list of healthy fruits and vegetables safe for dogs. Determine which ones your dog likes. He will thank you for it. And, as a bonus treat for your dog, check out our embroidered dog collars and leashes to spoil your furry best friend! Visit Dog ID Collar.com to shop.