This post is written by holistic veterinarian Dr. Angie Krause, DVM, CVA, CCRT.

My patients go on the best adventures in Colorado! From skiing and snowshoeing in the winter to swimming and epic hikes in the summer, most dogs here are weekend warriors. If you take your dog everywhere you go, it’s important to pack them healthy and nutritious snacks. On the other hand, if you have a total couch potato, like my pug, having fun healthy snacks is a sweet way to show your pup some love.

Here are my favorite healthy snacks for dogs:

  1. Fresh fruits. Bananas, apple slices (including skin), blueberries, strawberries, and melon can be a tasty treat on a long hike. Fruits are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that can help your dog stay healthy and energetic. If your dog is diabetic or you would like your dog to lose weight, use these sparingly or avoid altogether. Be sure to avoid grapes and raisins as they are toxic to some dogs.
  2. Fresh vegetables. Carrots (raw or cooked) and kale chips are my favorite vegetables to feed dogs. You can make kale chips in the oven by baking kale with a small amount of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Other vegetables like squash, potatoes and bell peppers are also safe for dogs. The only vegetable that you should avoid is onion in all forms.
  3. Peanut butter filled toys. If your dog needs a snack and some entertainment on the go, fill a Kong (or comparable toy). This will get your dog a boost of protein and fat while giving them some stress relief. You can fill a Kong with other foods such as applesauce and pumpkin and freeze the contents for a longer-lasting meal. Check out my favorite recipes here.
  4. Treats. If you don’t have time to prepare fruit and vegetable snacks, be sure to keep your pantry (and car) stocked with healthy treats. One of my favorites is Super Smarty Hearties. It is tasty and has the added benefit of omega 3 fatty acids. This can help reduce inflammation and support joint health.

I would love to hear from you! Leave a comment below letting me know what you feed your dog when you are having fun. Bonus points for pictures!

With love,

Dr. Angie