Feeding your dog fruits and vegetables can be a healthy treat, but not all of them are safe. Today, the veterinarians at Pico Rivera Animal Hospital discuss safe fruits and vegetables for dogs, and ones that aren't safe.
Is fruit good for dogs?
Dogs are omnivorous, meaning they consume both plants and meat. The good news is that modern dog food contains everything they require for a healthy life, so you don't have to worry about adding unnecessary ingredients to their diet.
However, you can provide your dog with fruit as a special treat. Remember that treats should only account for about 10% of their diet. If you give them fruit treats, limit the amount of other treats they eat so they don't overeat.
Introducing New Foods
When introducing new foods to your dog, take it slowly to ensure that they tolerate them well and do not have tummy issues or allergies. Begin by giving them a small portion of one fruit at a time, such as a piece or two per day, to see how they react.
If you give your dog fruit, make sure it's cut into small pieces and free of seeds, skins, and pits. These parts may contain harmful substances that could make your dog sick or even dangerous.
What fruit is good for dogs?
The following fruits make excellent dog treats:
- Apples: Apples are high in fiber and low in fat, making them a great option for overweight or senior pets with slower metabolisms. They also contain vitamins A and C, which help maintain healthy bones and tissue. Feed your dog apples in moderation, and be sure to remove the core and seeds first, as they are toxic to dogs.
- Apricots: Apricots' fleshy fruit can be a tasty treat for dogs. They are high in potassium and contain beta-carotene, which can help fight cancer. Make certain that the pit, stem, and leaves are all removed.
- Blueberries: Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and a good source of fiber and Vitamin C. You can freeze blueberries for a fun summer treat.
- Cantaloupe: Cantaloupe may help alleviate inflammatory issues in pets. Be sure to cut the fruit into manageable pieces and remove the skin and seeds before serving it up to your dog as a treat.
- Mango: Small pieces of mango with the skin and core removed are great, vitamin-packed treats for dogs.
- Pear: Pears are high in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. As with apples, before feeding to your pet, remove the core and seeds.
- Pineapple: Pineapple contains vitamins and minerals such as folate and zinc, which can benefit your dog's digestion and immune system. They are high in sugar and should not be fed to your dog regularly. Before giving pineapple as a treat, make sure to remove the spiky skin and core.
- Strawberries: Strawberries are great for the immune system and make a great treat—fresh or frozen—for your dog.
- Watermelon: Watermelons are mostly water, so they're a great option for keeping your pet hydrated during the hotter months. They also have the added benefit of being rich in vitamins.
Fruits That May Be Unsafe For Your Dog
- Avocado: Avocados have an extremely high-fat content, which can cause pancreatitis or upset stomach in some dogs, so they don't make good treats. Never feed the pit to your dog.
- Bananas: Bananas are a good source of potassium but are high in sugar and carbohydrates. Because of this, bananas should only be given to dogs sparingly. A small slice is okay for an occasional treat.
- Blackberries & Raspberries: Blackberries and raspberries are low in sugar, contain fiber and vitamin C, and have anti-inflammatory properties that make them great for older pets. However, they should only be given in small quantities as they contain trace amounts of a sweetener called xylitol which can be fatal to dogs in large quantities.
- Tomatoes: While the ripe fruit isn't toxic to dogs, it commonly causes stomach upset and should typically be avoided.
What fruit is bad for dogs?
- Cherries: Cherry pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which is poisonous and potentially fatal if consumed in high enough quantities. Cherry pits can also get stuck in a dog's intestinal system and cause blockages.
- Grapes: Grapes are highly toxic to dogs and can cause serious kidney damage that can lead to acute (sudden) kidney failure, which can be fatal.
- Lemons & Limes: While not toxic, lemons and limes can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs and should be avoided
- Wild berries: It is always better to err on the side of caution, as many wild berries are poisonous to dogs.
What veggies can dogs eat?
The following list of veggies should be good for dogs:
- Kale: Key vitamins in kale, such as K, A, and Iron, support bone health, proper vision and immune function, fetal development, and energy metabolism.
- Carrots: Carrots are high in beta-carotene, vitamin A, biotin, vitamin K, potassium, and vitamin B6.
- Green Beans: Green beans are high in vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and vitamins B6, A, C, and K. Green beans are also low in calories and high in fiber, which can make dogs feel satisfied.
- Broccoli: Broccoli contains a wide range of vitamins, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium, which help dogs with bone density, disease prevention, and heart health.
- Beets: Vitamin C, fiber, folate, manganese, and potassium are all found in beets. These nutrients benefit your dog's digestion and immune system, as well as his skin and coat.
- Yams & Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are great for digestive health because they're high in fiber. They contain vitamin B6, vitamin C, and manganese, plus they are rich in the antioxidant beta-carotene.
- Butternut Squash: Butternut squash is high in vitamins and minerals such as A, C, B6, and others that support your dog's immune system, vision, and cardiovascular function.
What veggies are bad for dogs?
These vegetables are not safe for dogs:
Garlic, Onions, Shallots, & Chives: Garlic, onions, shallots, and chives are toxic to dogs, whether raw or cooked. They have substances that may cause anemia and damage red blood cells. Signs of illness may take several days to manifest.
Mushrooms: Store-bought mushrooms are safe for dogs to eat, but wild mushrooms should be avoided because they may be toxic. If your dog consumes a toxic mushroom, he or she may develop symptoms such as wheezing, vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in the heartbeat. Toxic mushrooms can cause organ failure, seizures, and comas in dogs at their most severe.
Rhubarb: Rhubarb also contains oxalates, which can cause problems with your pet's nervous system, digestive tract, and kidneys. Rhubarb can also lower calcium levels in your dog, causing renal failure and other health problems.
If your dog consumes any of these foods, take them to the vet or an emergency clinic right away.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.