Can My Dog Eat: Winter Fruits & Veggies

If food is your love language, it makes sense that you’d want to share your delicious delicacies with your fur baby. While many human foods are safe for dogs, others are very unhealthy and dangerous, so it’s important to learn which fruits and vegetables dogs can eat.

It’s just as important to find out if your dog has any allergies. This is especially essential during the holidays, where many celebrations revolve around lots of food many of which can be harmful to your pet. The same is true for dog food, you should understand what is in your dog’s food, and to do so you must know how to understand a dog food label.

Can my dog eat winter vegetables?

Introducing high fiber dog food and limited ingredient dog food into your pet's diet can be a game changer, especially when it includes healthy winter vegetables. While not the typical choice for a treat, these veggies can be a surprisingly good source of nutrients, making them a smart addition to good dog food.

It’s essential, however, to know which winter vegetables are safe and beneficial for your furry friend, as they can provide a yummy and vitamin-rich treat while ensuring their overall well-being. Here’s a few common vegetables you might see this winter season:

Can my dog eat cabbage?

Cabbage, a healthy addition to good dog food, is safe for dogs in moderation. However, moderation is key unless you want a farty furball! Just like humans, these greens can cause gas for your pup.

Can my dog eat brussel sprouts?

Brussels sprouts are bursting with nutrients and antioxidants that are great for both humans and dogs and can help round out a good dog food. However, like cabbage brussels sprouts should be given to your dog in small quantities to avoid a smelly dog! 

Can my dog eat broccoli?

Broccoli is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat, making it a healthy treat. However, Broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause gastric irritation in some dogs. Broccoli can also be difficult for dogs to swallow, so this shouldn’t be given to them often, and should always be cut into small pieces

Can my dog eat kale or kale stems?

Kale is a superfood for humans, but you should keep it away from your dog. Kale is high in calcium oxalate, which can cause health issues like kidney and bladder stones.

Can my dog eat winter fruits?

Winter fruits can be a delightful and healthy complement to your dog's diet, particularly when included in high fiber puppy food or limited ingredient dog food. While they offer a sweet change of pace to good dog food, it's important to know which fruits are safe for your canine companion. Apples, pears, and bananas, for instance, are great choices for their fiber content and vitamins. 

However, moderation is key, as too much fruit can lead to digestive issues. Always remove any seeds or pits, and introduce these seasonal treats gradually to ensure they agree with your pup's system.

Can my dog eat pears?

Pears are a great snack because they’re high in vitamins C and K, and fiber. It’s been suggested that eating the fruit can reduce the risk of having a stroke by 50 percent in humans! Just be sure to cut pears into bite-size chunks and remove the pit and seeds first, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide. Skip canned pears with sweetened syrups, and only share fresh pears with your doggo.

Can my dog eat oranges?

Oranges are fine for dogs to eat, according to veterinarians, but Fido may not be a fan of any strong-smelling citrus. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, and in small quantities, the juicy flesh of an orange can be a tasty treat for your dog. Vets recommend removing the peel and only giving your dog the flesh of the orange, minus any seeds.

Can my dog eat grapefruit?

Dogs can eat the flesh of grapefruit, not the peel. But most dogs won't be tempted by grapefruit because of the bitter taste. Grapefruit is very acidic and can cause digestive issues for dogs, so it should only be given to them in small amounts, and infrequently.

This list is not exhaustive, so if your dog begging for a tasty human treat, make sure to consult your pet’s doctor first. When in doubt, it’s best to just stick with good dog food! Limited ingredient dog food, and raw dog food should be considered due to its many benefits. If you want to really spoil your pup with the best dog friendly treats, try our human grade dog food!

Updated January 9, 2024