While many dog owners are aware that foods like onions, certain mushrooms, grapes, and raisins are toxic to dogs, that doesn’t mean our furry friends have to miss out on all the fun at mealtime. In fact, several fruits and vegetables are safe and even beneficial for dogs when offered as occasional treats. That said, it’s important to serve them correctly.
Always wash produce thoroughly and remove any seeds, pits, rinds, stems, or cores, as these can be choking hazards or toxic and beware that every dog is different and digests foods differently depending on factors such as age, health conditions, and existing diets, especially prescription ones. When in doubt, check with your vet before introducing anything new to your dog’s diet.
As natural omnivores, dogs can enjoy a variety of fruit and vegetables in moderation. According to experts and Veterinary Surgeon MRCVS, Anna Ewers Clark, at Blue Cross, a UK animal welfare charity founded in 1897, there are 10 fruits and vegetables that are safe and nutritious for dogs to enjoy now and then.
1. Apples
Apples are actually a great source of nutrition for dogs, providing fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. However, make sure to remove the core and seeds, as they can be harmful to your dog if ingested. You can cut it small pieces and offer it as a healthy treat that will also help clean teeth and freshen your pet’s breath.
2. Carrots
Want to give your dog something to chew on without resorting to rawhide or overly processed treats? Try a carrot. It’s a healthy and natural alternative that’s high in fibre and contains vitamins A and K as well as other antioxidants that support overall health.
3. Sweet potatoes
Cooked sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, fiber, and other nutrients that support your dog’s immune and digestive health. However, make sure to give sweet potatoes once they’ve been boiled or baked not fried and that it hasn’t got any added oils, or seasonings to it.
4. Green beans
Steamed green beans are safe for dogs and provide a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, though don’t give too many to your dog as too many may cause gas. However, they should be given in moderation, as too many can cause gas. The experts also warned that uncooked dried beans, such as kidney beans, are toxic to dogs.
5. Peas
Green peas are nutrient-rich, offering protein, vitamins A, B1, B6, C, K, and fiber. They can be fed frozen or steamed.
6. Cabbage
All types of cabbage support digestion and skin health but should be introduced gradually due to potential gas.
7. Strawberries
Strawberries are a tasty treat packed with vitamin C, potassium, and manganese, which are all great for boosting your dog’s immune system.
8. Oranges
Oranges are safe in small amounts and provide vitamin C, potassium and fiber. Never give your dog the peel, seeds, or pith and don’t overdo it as oranges are high in acid content and sugar.
9. Tomatoes (ripe only)
Ripe tomatoes are safe to eat, but avoid the leaves, stems, and green, unripe tomatoes, which contain toxins like solanine and tomatine.
Solanine and tomatine are naturally occurring toxic compounds found in certain parts of plants in the nightshade family which includes tomatoes, potatoes, aubergines, and peppers. These toxins can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, lethargy and weakness, or even loss of coordination and tremors or seizures in the most severe cases.
10. Cooked potatoes
Like tomatoes, potatoes that are raw and with green skin will contain solanine so make sure to check the potato before giving it to your dog and make sure it’s cooked and plain without added butter, oil or harmful seasonings and ingredients like garlic and onion.
