Fruits and veggies can make great treats and snacks for pups. However, some of the fruits and veggies that humans enjoy are actually toxic to dogs. If your pet is craving some fruits and veggies, take a look at our list for which are safe or toxic to dogs:
Strawberries are packed with vitamins and minerals, most notably Vitamin C, manganese, folate and potassium. They are also a good source of antioxidants including phytonutrient ellagitannins and ellagic acid, which have shown potential in reducing the risk of cancer and harmful bacteria.
You may have heard rumours that carrots can be good for eyesight. Well the rumours are true! This is because carrots are rich in a vitamin called beta carotene, which the body uses to produce vitamin A. Vitamin A is utilized to maintain clarity in the cornea and improve vision in low light conditions. Aside from eyesight, carrots are also a great source of fiber, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants.
Similar to strawberries, blueberries are packed with vitamins/ minerals and antioxidants. Blueberries are a “superfood’, which can lower your dog’s risk of heart disease and cancer. Additionally, they are also anti-inflammatory!
Broccoli may not be the tastiest vegetable to everyone but it is a nutritional powerhouse. Equipped with a crazy fibre content, it is also rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, potassium, calcium, selenium and magnesium, vitamin A, and folic acid.
Banana probably has the least nutritional value of the fruits and veggies listed but it is still a much healthier option than commercial pet treats. Bananas contain a high sugar content relative to other fruits and veggies, so it may be the most appealing to your dog. They are also a good source of potassium!
Peas have so many nutritional benefits. Most notably is that they are a great source of plant protein and fibre. They are also rich in vitamin A, phosphorous, vitamin B6, niacin, magnesium, riboflavin, copper, iron, zinc and potassium!
It is still unknown as to exactly why grapes (and raisins) are toxic to dogs. What we do know for sure though is that grapes severely damage their kidneys. Grapes should never be fed to dogs, even in small amounts.
Avocados contain a fungicidal toxin called perisin which can cause pancreatitis. In low doses, perisin can result in diarrhea, vomiting and GI upset. Avocados are also a very calorie and lipid dense fruit, which may promote weight gain.
Not all mushrooms are toxic to dogs but many are. Fungi are a difficult area to navigate in pet nutrition. It is better to just avoid feeding your dog mushrooms all together. Instead opt for a carrot or apple slice.
Onions contain allium compounds called N-propyl disulfide and thiosulfate. Allium compounds are toxic to dogs and in high doses can cause breakdown of red blood cells through oxidative damage. The loss of too many blood cells eventually results in anemia.
For the same reasons as onion, garlic can cause anemia in dogs as a result of high concentrations of allium compounds.
Rhubarb contains a high concentration of calcium oxalates. Most of which are concentrated in the leaves but it can also be found distributed throughout the edible stalk as well. Calcium oxalates cause kidney failure by binding with calcium in the body, resulting in a sudden drop in calcium and the formation of oxalate crystals in the urine.
Looking for a novel non-vegetable treat your dog will love? Get the facts on sardines from Dr. Suzee!
