As dog owners, we understand what it is like when your dog stares at you with its puppy eyes, wanting a bite of whatever you are eating. Certain food can be shared with your dogs, however, what is good for us may not necessarily be good for our dogs. Some are unhealthy and could potentially cause health problems or in worse case scenarios, lead to death.
It is important to practise moderation when giving fruits or vegetables. Too much of good things may not necessarily be always beneficial. A simple guideline to follow would be limiting treats and snacks for your dogs to no more than 10% of your dog’s calorie intake.
Any pit, seeds and core from fruits should be removed prior to feeding our dogs as they can cause serious blockage and pain for your dog’s digestive system. Certain fruits such as bananas and strawberries contain high sugar content and should not be given in large amounts.
Take a look at some of the fruits and veggies that your dogs can eat. However, as any other food, it is important to consume them moderately and not excessively.
| Apples | · Excellent source of Vitamins A & C, fiber, calcium
· Low in fat, protein |
| Bananas | · Low in calories, cholesterol, sodium
· High in potassium, Vitamins, biotin, fiber, copper |
| Blueberries | · Superfood rich in antioxidants that prevent cell damage
· Contain fiber, phytochemicals |
| Cranberries | · Reduces the adhesion of bacteria in the urogenital tract and possibly prevent urinary tract infections |
| Strawberries | · Contain fiber, Vitamin C
· Contains an enzyme that can help whiten dog’s teeth |
| Watermelon | · Contain Vitamin A, B6 & C, potassium |
| Pears | · High in copper, Vitamins C & K, fiber (Can reduce risk of having a stroke by up to 50%) |
| Pineapple | · Contain vitamins, minerals, fiber
· Contain bromelain (Enzyme that makes it easier for dogs to absorb proteins) |
| Broccoli | · High in fiber, Vitamin A, C & K
· Contain beta-carotene, folate, dietary fiber · Low in fat |
| Carrots | · Low in calories, fat
· High in fiber, beta-cariotene which produces Vitamin A (Helps to boost their immune system and keeps their skin and coat healthy) |
| Cauliflower | · Full of minerals (May help the aches and pains of older pets with arthritis) |
| Green Beans | · Contain plant fiber, manganese, Vitamins C & K |
| Pumpkin | · Contain Vitamins, minerals
· High in fiber (Beneficial for dogs that have diarrhoea or constipation) · Low in calories |
| Spinach | · Contain Vitamin K, magnesium, folate, manganese, omega-3 fatty acids and zinc |
| Sweet Potato | · Contain dietary fiber, high in vitamin B6 & C, beta-carotene |
| Zucchini | · Excellent source of Vitamin C, rich in beta-carotene, Vitamin A
· Contain dietary fiber, potassium, folate, niacin |
| Cucumber | · Low in fat, carbohydrates, calories
· Contain Vitamin K, C & B1 · Contain potassium, copper, magnesium, biotin |
| Celery | · Excellent source of Vitamins A, B, C & K
· Contain folate, potassium, manganese · Contain nutrients that help fight cancer · Low in calories, low in fat (Great for weight loss and promotes healthy heart) |
| Peas | · Contain Vitamin A, K & B
· Contain iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium · High in protein, fiber |
| Brussels Sprouts | · Contain nutrients, antioxidants |
One of the most commonly known food that is dangerous for dogs are grapes. Did you know that there are other food there are dangerous to feed as well? Look out, these fruits and veggies should not be fed to your dog!
| Avocado | · Can cause vomiting and diarrhoea (Contain persin)
· Can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large amount (High in fat) |
| Cherries | · Can cause cyanide poisoning where they experience dilated pupils, difficulty breathing and red gums (Contain cyanide) |
| Dried Fruit | · Can cause diabetes (High in sugar) |
| Citrus | · Can cause an upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhoea (Leaves, stem, and skin of citrus fruits are toxic) |
| Grapes and Raisins | · Can lead to acute sudden kidney failure |
| Macadamia Nuts | · Can cause weakness, vomiting and diarrhoea |
| Tomatoes | · Can cause GI distress, arrhythmia, upset stomach, loss of coordination, muscle weakness, tremors and seizures (Contain solanine) |
| Onions
(Garlic, Leeks, Chives) |
· Can potentially damage our dogs’ red blood cells in which the dog’s body will be unable to distribute oxygen properly
· Can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and nausea (Contains N-propyl disulfide) |
| Mushrooms | · Wild mushrooms are toxic for dogs |
Feeding fruits to your dog can be a great way to get them some extra vitamins and minerals. Remember, even if the fruits and veggies are safe for consumption, it is always important to check on your dog after trying a new food. Certain dogs may have more sensitive stomachs compared to others.
Adopted from sources
– Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can or Can’t Eat (By AKC Staff, American Kennel Club)
(https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/)
– 39 Vegetables and Fruits Dogs Can and Can’t Eat. (By Pupford)
(https://pupford.com/vegetables-fruits-dogs-can-cant-eat/)
– The Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can (and Can’t) Eat. (By Elizabeth Heath, Reader’s Digest)
(https://www.rd.com/article/vegetables-fruits-dogs-can-cant-eat/)
