Dog-Friendly Fruits and Vegetables, a guide to what fruits and veggies are safe for your pet.

You may have found while enjoying an apple or banana; your dog is staring at you with a focus that can’t be waivered. You wonder – what harm would it be to give my dog a bite? There are a variety of dog-friendly fruits and vegetables that are tasty treats that you and your pet can enjoy together. Here is a guide to the best fruits and vegetables to share with your dog, as well as ones to avoid.

The best fruits and vegetables for dogs

Let’s start with the foods that you can share with your pups. Any of the following options make a healthy snack for both you and your dog.

Bananas: Bananas are a great snack for dogs in moderation due to having high sugar content. Try freezing them and mixing them into peanut butter. Make sure to avoid giving your dog the banana peel; they aren’t toxic, but they can be hard to digest and upset the stomach.

Apples: An apple a day keeps the doctor and vet away?  Yes, but in moderation. Start by cutting your dog a small piece of apple to see how their stomach reacts. Never give your dog a whole apple; the seeds contain cyanide, and the core can pose a choking hazard.

Potatoes: Roasted, baked or scalloped, potatoes are safe for your pet to eat. Leave the skin on for added nutrients and fiber. Make sure that the potatoes are fully cooked – this makes them easier for your pet to chew and digest.

Broccoli: Whether it’s kids or dogs, broccoli isn’t for the picky eater. However, broccoli is safe and healthy for dogs with minerals and fibers. Be sure to cut them into small pieces that are easy for pups to eat.

Strawberries: High in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, strawberries are great for both dogs and humans. Make sure that they are fresh and wash them thoroughly before feeding them to your dog. As with all new foods, be sure to feed them in moderation.

Fruits and vegetables dogs can’t have

Now that you know the fruits and vegetables that are good for your dogs, it’s also important to note a few to stay away from.

Grapes: Grapes are on the top of the “do not feed your dog” list. They can be highly toxic to dogs, leading them to kidney failure and can possibly be fatal. If you suspect that your dog has ingested any grapes or raisins, get immediate medical treatment for your pet.

Avocado: This is another fruit that we do not recommend feeding your dog. Avocados contain a toxin called persin. Eating avocado can lead to minor stomach upset, but the most concerning aspect are the pit. Eaten whole, it can cause severe obstruction. If your pet eats a pit, contact the vet immediately.

A dog’s diet should come from high-protein meat-based with healthy fats. This helps with your dog’s skin, coat, and muscle strength. Mixing this with 10-20% fruits and vegetables ensures your pup is getting the diet he or she needs.

K9 Clean specializes in Eco-Friendly Dog Products, and we would love to hear from you.  If you’ve got some good suggestions or other ideas that you would like to add, please let us know!  Contact us at info@k9clean.com or to learn more about Earth Friendly Dog products, visit our store at k9clean.com.

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