18 May The dos and don’ts of fruit and veg for your dog
National Vegetarian Week
The do’s and don’ts of fruit and veg for dogs!
It’s National Vegetarian Week this week and we’re looking at which fruits and veggies your dog might enjoy for the occasional treat.
As long as you are feeding your dog a balanced diet, dogs don’t require any additional vegetables as they get all the nutrients they need through their regular doggy diet.
However, our K9 pals do usually enjoy a little fruit and veg for an occasional treat. This should always be raw, chopped into small pieces and not have any seasonings, butter or oil on.
Fruits: The do’s and don’ts
- Strawberries – YES! Full of fiber and vit C. They also contain an enzyme that can help whiten teeth! Remember though, they’re high in sugar.
- Grapes – NO! Grapes (and raisins) are toxic to dogs and can lead to acute kidney failure.
- Bananas – YES! In moderation bananas are a great low-calorie treat. They’re high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber and copper and low in cholesterol.
- Cherries – NO! Cherries contain cyanide which can stop the oxygen getting to your dog’s blood cells.
- Pears – YES! They’re a lovely snack and high in copper, vit C, vit K and fiber. Make sure you don’t give them pears out of a tin which will contain excess sugar.
Vegetables: The do’s and don’ts
- Broccoli – YES! High in fiber and vit C and low in fat but to be enjoyed in moderation and always cut into small pieces.
- Mushrooms – NO! Mushrooms can be toxic for dogs – some washed, white mushrooms you find in the supermarket are OK but best to avoid to be on the safe side.
- Peas – YES! Peas in all varieties are OK for dogs to eat but avoid the canned ones which contain added sodium.
- Onions – NO! Onions, leeks and chives are all part of the allium family and are poisonous to most pets. Definitely one to avoid!
- Carrots – YES! Carrots are an excellent, low calorie, nutritious treat. Munching on a carrot from time to time can help their teeth too.
Happy munching!