Dogs are omnivores, which means that their diet consists of meat and plants. There are many fruits and vegetables that are safe to feed your dog as a treat on top of their regular diet. Below is a list of many yummy snacks and some of the benefits of feeding them.
Apples – Apples are full of vitamin A & C as well as fiber. They can help to improve the digestive system. Be sure to remove the core and seeds prior to feeding.
Bananas – Bananas contain potassium, vitamins and copper. They tend to be high in sugar, so feed sparingly.
Blueberries – Blueberries are full of antioxidants and fiber.
Broccoli – Broccoli is safe to give to dogs, however it’s best to feed in small quantities as it is very fibrous and can cause diarrhea.
Brussel Sprouts – Brussel sprouts are safe to give to dogs, however it can cause flatulence in dogs the same way it does to humans.
Cantaloupe – Cantaloupe is a sweet treat. Feed in small amounts as it has a high sugar content.
Carrots – Carrots are high in vitamins and fiber. They are fibrous and can help to brush away tartar from your dogs teeth.
Celery – Celery is a good low calorie snack. This vegetable can also help to brush away tartar.
Cucumbers – Cucumbers are also a low calorie treat. However you should feed sparingly as they can cause an upset stomach.
Green Beans – Green beans full of iron and vitamins. Be sure to feed fresh beans rather than canned as it contains added salt. This is a healthy snack that is low in calories and can help your dog to feel full.
Mango – Make sure to remove the pit as it contains small amounts of toxic cyanide and can be a choking hazard. They make for a sweet treat.
Oranges – Make sure to peel the orange and remove any seeds prior to feeding to avoid choking hazard. This snack is low in sodium and full of nutrients such as potassium, some fiber, and vitamin C. Oranges are a healthy treat if given in limited amounts – 1 or 2 wedges a day.
Peaches – Again remove the pit of the peach before feeding it to your dog. Peaches are low in calories and high in fiber. They also contain vitamins A & C as well as antioxidants which help to boost the immune system.
Pears – Be sure to remove the pit and seeds of pears prior to feeding. Pears are high in copper, fiber and vitamins C & K.
Kale – Kale is filled with vitamin K & C and iron. It is good for bone health, vision and immune function.
Spinach – Spinach contains potassium, manganese, vitamins B6, B12, C, E & K. Also contains folic acid, iron and calcium.
Beets – Beets are filled with manganese, fiber, folate, potassium and vitamin C. This healthy snack helps to support digestion, immune system and healthy skin/coat.
Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes contain manganese, and vitamins B6 and C. They help with digestion and are rich in antioxidants.
Pineapple – Pineapple is a sweet treat. It contains vitamins, minerals, fiber and bromelain (helpful with protein absorption).
Strawberries – Strawberries contain enzymes that help to brighten your pets teeth. They also contain vitamin C and fiber. This sweet treat is high in calorie, so feed sparingly.
Watermelon – Watermelon can be helpful in hydrating your dog during the warmer months. They also contain potassium and vitamins A, B6 & C.
Butternut Squash – Butternut squash contain many vitamins including vitamin B, C and B6. This healthy snack can help the immune system, vision and cardiovascular function.