Go ahead and grab a bag of your dog’s dry food or a can of their wet food to read the ingredients list. Does it include fruits and vegetables? It probably does! And, if you’ve looked up homemade dog food recipes, you might’ve noticed that they sometimes include produce to help balance the nutrition in every meal.
But are fruits and vegetables good for dogs? Well, it depends. While some might be perfectly fine, others can be dangerous and toxic. So, before you give your pet any human foods, including natural produce, it’s wise to do your research and talk to your veterinarian if you want personalized advice.
What fruits and vegetables can dogs eat? We’ve compiled some lists below to help you make smart decisions when it comes to feeding your pet.
First, let’s talk about fruit
There are several fruits your dog can enjoy as part of a meal. Fed in small amounts and in moderation, particularly because they may be high in sugar, fruits can also serve as a tasty treat.
If you’re thinking about adding fruit to your pet’s daily diet, it’s best to talk to your veterinarian before doing so. That way, you’ll know how much is appropriate, and you can be sure your companion will get the right amount of nutrients, whether you’re feeding a commercial, homemade, or raw diet.
Tip: Whenever you give your canine companion fruit, be sure that it’s been washed thoroughly. And, to keep things safe, remove any pits, seeds, and skin.
What fruits can dogs eat safely?
The following list of fruits can provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants:
- Apples (note: remove the seeds)
- Bananas (note: feed in moderation because of high sugar content)
- Blueberries
- Cantaloupe (note: feed in moderation because of high sugar content)
- Coconut (note: might not be right for your dog if they’re on a diet, have a sensitive stomach, or are at risk of pancreatitis)
- Cranberries
- Cucumber
- Honeydew (note: might not be right for diabetic dogs)
- Mango (note: remove the pit and only feed the flesh of the fruit)
- Orange (note: remove the skin, seeds, and pith, and only feed the flesh of the fruit)
- Peach (note: remove the pit and only feed the flesh of the fruit)
- Pear (note: remove the core and seeds, and only feed the flesh of the fruit)
- Pineapple
- Strawberries
- Watermelon (note: remove the rind and seeds)
What fruits can dogs not eat?
Fruits that can be harmful to dogs include:
- Avocado
- Cherries
- Grapes
- Lemon
- Lime
- Raisins
Next, let’s cover veggies
Can dogs eat vegetables every day? Yes. Can you add veggies to dog food? Sure, as long as you stick with vegetables dogs can eat.
The best vegetables for dogs will provide your pet with a host of nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. As is the case with fruit, it’s best to feed these in moderation after they’ve been washed. And it’s wise to work with your vet if you’re adding new vegetables to your pet’s diet.
What vegetables can dogs eat?
Here are some dog-friendly vegetables that can make tasty treats in between meals or during training sessions:
- Bell peppers (note: remove stem and seeds, and feed in small amounts to reduce risk of digestive upset)
- Broccoli (note: cut in small pieces to reduce risk of choking, and feed in small amounts occasionally to reduce risk of stomach irritation)
- Brussels sprouts (note: feed cooked and in small amounts to reduce risk of gas)
- Cabbage (note: feed occasionally and in small amounts because it might cause gas, and lightly cook it to deactivate thiocyanate)
- Carrots
- Cauliflower (note: steam it and cut it into small pieces to reduce risk of gas)
- Celery
- Green beans
- Lettuce
- Peas (note: only feed frozen or fresh peas, and avoid feeding to dogs with kidney problems)
- Potatoes and sweet potatoes (note: don’t feed these to your dog raw; instead, boil or bake them)
- Pumpkin
- Spinach (note: contains oxalic acid, so only feed in moderation)
What vegetables are bad for dogs?
Some of the vegetables that can be harmful to dogs include:
- Asparagus
- Garlic
- Onions
- Tomato (note: the green part of the plant is toxic to dogs)
What should you do if your dog eats harmful fruits or vegetables?
If your dog accidentally ends up eating something they shouldn’t, contact your veterinarian for advice, especially if your pet is exhibiting symptoms. An emergency trip to the vet might be necessary, depending on what your furry friend ate and how much they consumed.
Having the right pet insurance can give you peace of mind if your dog has to see the veterinarian for emergency treatments after ingesting something dangerous. So definitely consider signing up for a plan that will have your back in case your pet needs expensive care.