We’ve all been reminded to eat our fruits and veggies a time or two, but have you ever thought about doing the same for your pup?
We’re giving our faithful readers the lowdown on tomatoes and corn and berries, oh my! So that you can incorporate healthy fresh foods into your furry friend’s diet, while steering clear of the ones that aren’t meant for doggy tummies.
Summer Vegetables
Whether you’re jonesin’ to share your garden with your pup, or looking to add natural snacks into their diet, we’ve got the 4-1-1 on summer vegetables that are safe to share with dogs:
Can My Dog Eat Corn?
While corn sometimes gets a bad rap for being “filler” nothing could be further from the truth! It’s packed with protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and antioxidants - and cooking it ensures proper digestion.
Can My Dog Eat Cucumbers?
Low calories + satisfying crunch = great snack. Just be sure to cut cucumbers into manageable bites and be aware of overeating. Even too much of a healthy treat can cause GI upset!
Can My Dog Eat Green Beans?
Served raw, steamed, or canned, green beans make a great treat for dogs, but take it slow, as overconsumption can cause gas and diarrhea.
Can My Dog Eat Bell Peppers?
Bell peppers are great for fur babies, especially the red ones. They pack nine times the amount of beta carotene than yellow or green peppers! Full of vitamins A, C, E, and antioxidants, adding in unseasoned steamed bell peppers into a pup’s diet is A-okay in our book.
Can My Dog Eat Summer Squash?
All varieties of squash are safe for dogs, including your summer favorites. Get rid of extra from the garden by offering pups steamed or cooked squash, but make sure to steer clear of skin and seeds.
Summer Fruits
Juicy, sweet fruit treats are great for pups too, but some are healthier and safer than others. Here’s a list of Do’s and Don’ts when it comes to summer fruits:
Can My Dog Eat Kiwi?
Yes, but proceed with a little caution! The meat of the fruit is healthy, but the tough skin can be difficult to chew, and the seeds are toxic if ingested in large amounts. Don’t serve kiwi whole and make sure it’s skinned and deseeded.
Can My Dog Eat Peaches?
Peaches are packed with fiber and vitamin A, but they’re also a solid source of sugar and calories. Offer them as a treat, but stick to two or three slices to avoid sugar overload, and avoid the pit.
Can My Dog Eat Blueberries?
This sweet treat is low in calories, and high in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins C and K - a home run for pups!
Can My Dog Eat Apricots?
If served carefully? Yes. The leaves, pits, and stems of apricots contain small amounts of cyanide which is toxic. Offer your dog raw or dried apricots for a boost of fiber and potassium, but remove all of the potentially dangerous bits.
Can My Dog Eat Watermelon?
Whether cubed, pureed, or frozen, watermelon is a delicious hydrating snack. Remove the seeds and rind to avoid intestinal upset, and offer your pup watermelon for a healthy dose of vitamins A, B6, C and potassium.
Can My Dog Eat Plums?
Steer clear of this purple fruit. Plum pits contain cyanide which is highly toxic to dogs, and if ingested, the sharp pit can do a number on a pup’s esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Best to save this fruit for humans!
Can My Dog Eat Raspberries & Blackberries?
These delicious berries are perfectly healthy for pups as well! They’re soft, easy to digest, and totally free of any toxic ingredients. Bowl appetit!
Can My Dog Eat Tomatoes?
Yes. But don’t let your pup roam around a tomato garden. When served ripe and sans leaves and stems, they’re beneficial. But unripe tomatoes contain a toxin called solanine, and large amounts can be problematic. Offer tomatoes carefully, and avoid any green parts.
We’re happy to share this huge list of summer fruits and veggies that can be shared with your furry friend! But as with the introduction of any new food, remember to take it slow! If you’re looking for natural, healthy food and treats, we have you covered there too. Happy snacking!