Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can and Can't Eat

 A dog’s diet plays a crucial role in their overall health and well-being. Just as humans have specific foods that are beneficial or harmful, so do dogs. Understanding what vegetables and fruits are safe for dogs to consume, as well as which ones to avoid, is important for all dog owners.

Our three dogs favorite time of day, next to walkies, is hanging around the kitchen at dinner time while we're chopping veggies. They love kale, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots and apples!

Safe Vegetables and Fruits for Dogs:

1. Carrots: Crunchy and packed with vitamins, carrots are excellent for a dog's teeth and overall health. They can be given raw or cooked, but avoid seasonings or oils.
2. Green Beans: These are low in calories and rich in vitamins, making them a healthy snack for dogs. Plain, steamed green beans are ideal.
3. Apples: Remove seeds and core first, then slice into small pieces. Apples are a great source of fibre and vitamins for dogs.
4. Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, blueberries are safe and nutritious for dogs just as they are a superfood for humans. They can be given fresh or frozen. Our dogs help themselves straight from the bushes!
5. Spinach: High in iron and rich in nutrients, spinach can be beneficial for dogs in moderation. Avoid large amounts as it contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption.
6. Bananas: A few slices of banana can provide dogs with potassium, vitamins, and fiber. It's a healthy occasional treat.
7. Pumpkin: Plain, cooked pumpkin (not the sugary pie filling) is great for digestive health in dogs, thanks to its fibre content. Dogs love it for its sweetness.
8. Sweet potatoes and Yams: A favourite for many dogs. Full of important nutrients especially beta carotene. The dehydrated ones make great treats.
9. Cabbage, Broccoli, Kale: perfectly healthy for dogs but cabbage can cause flatulence just as it can in humans. We thought we had a rabbit problem until we discovered our Weimeraners chomping on cabbages in the vegetable garden.

Fruits and Vegetables to Avoid:

1. Grapes and Raisins: These can cause kidney failure in dogs, so it's crucial to keep them away from your pet.
2. Onions and Garlic: Whether raw, cooked, or powdered, onions and garlic can damage a dog's red blood cells and lead to anemia.
3. Avocado: Avocados contain persin, which can be toxic to dogs in large amounts. The pit is also a choking hazard.
4. Cherries: The pits, stems, and leaves of cherries contain cyanide compounds, which are toxic to dogs.
5. Raw Potatoes: Raw potatoes and green potatoes contain solanine, which can be harmful to dogs. Cooked, plain potatoes in moderation are okay.
6. Mushrooms: Some mushrooms can be toxic to dogs, so it's safest to avoid feeding them mushrooms altogether.

Tips for Feeding Vegetables and Fruits to Dogs:

• Moderation: Introduce new foods gradually and in small amounts to ensure they agree with your dog's digestion.

• Preparation: Always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly to remove any pesticides if they are not home grown.

• Avoid Seasonings: Plain and unseasoned is the best way to offer vegetables and fruits to dogs. Avoid adding salt, sugar, or spices.

• Consult Your Vet: If you're unsure about whether a particular fruit or vegetable is safe for your dog, consult your veterinarian.

Robin Logan,
RSHom