We all know that eating fresh fruits and vegetables are part of maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and are loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, but did you know that some fresh fruits and veggies can be healthy diet additives for your dog as well? Here’s our list of favorite fresh foods that can be given to your dog in moderation.
Fruits
Be sure to take the seeds out before giving your dog a slice! Apples are full of Vitamins A and C. Consider chopping a small portion of apple and giving them an extra special breakfast this week!
Bananas
Bananas are a great source of potassium but are high in carbohydrates and sugar, so stick with small portions of this yummy fruit! Try mashing a quarter or half of the banana and mix it with peanut butter. Then fill your pups Kong and freeze for a frozen peanut butter and banana treat!
Blueberries
The benefits of these berries are many! With lots of antioxidants, Vitamin C, and fiber, they’re a great bite-sized treat for your dog. For easy ice cube tray treats, try putting two or three blueberries in each well of an ice cube tray, then just add water and freeze!
*Be sure to never give your dog grapes, raisins, fruit pits or watermelon rinds!
Veggies
Bell Peppers
Full of beta carotene, fiber and antioxidants, all bell pepper varieties can help provide an immune boost to your pups’ meals. Remember not to feed the stem!
Carrots
Crunchy and low in calories! Carrots are a puppy and adult dog favorite for their enjoyable crunch. If you have a teething puppy, try freezing a large carrot for them to gnaw on!
Spinach
Regularly referred to as a superfood, spinach is chock full of vitamins and minerals. To help with digestion, try using a blender to puree the spinach, then use it as a meal topper from time to time!
*Be sure to stay away from garlic, onions, and corn cobs!
See you next time, at Central Bark!
– Carla
Carla is an Operations Field Representative for Central Bark and co-owns a dog training and behavior consulting business, Good Karma Canine. Carla has three dogs Karma, a seven-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier Mix; Gypsy, a five-year-old Bull Terrier/Lab Mix; and Newt, a two-year-old Chihuahua.
