Your dog may have the teeth (and appetite) of a carnivore,
but coyotes, wolves, and other wild canines frequently eat plant material. Moderate
amounts of particular fruits and veggies are healthy for your best friend and
provide a welcome change from store bought treats.
Can you grow your own dog food? You can, but take time to
learn about the best plants to grow for your dog. The following information
should help.
Vegetables Dogs Eat
Plants
toxic to dogs is always something you want to avoid. But you probably didn’t
know there are actually a number of healthy fruits and vegetables for dogs that
you access, or grow, all the time. Here are some great choices to grow in your
garden if you’re not already:
- Carrots: Carrots
are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber without adding a
lot of calories. These dog friendly vegetables are good for your dog’s eyes and
coat, and chewing raw chunks is healthy for the teeth. However, some dogs may
like carrots better if they’re lightly cooked.
- Cucumbers: Cucumbers
are rich in nutrients but low in carbs, making them a great treat if calories
are an issue.
- Cantaloupe: Cantaloupe
is a canine favorite but go easy if your pooch is a little on the chubby side.
- Blueberries: Blueberries
(and other berries) are super healthy in moderation. Too many may cause an
upset tummy.
- Peaches: Peaches
are good for dogs in small amounts but remove the seeds first. The pits of
peaches (and other stone fruits) contain a compound that breaks down into cyanide
when eaten. The same goes for pears,
(even though they aren’t stone fruits).
- Pumpkin: Pumpkin
is a high fiber treat and one of the most dog friendly vegetables, especially
if your dog struggles with constipation, diarrhea, or other tummy issues.
- Apples: Apples
are low in fat and rich in nutrients. Try freezing apple chunks for a cool
snack on hot summer days! Cut out the seeds and core before giving them to your
pup.
- Sweet potatoes: Sweet
potatoes are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals but they’re best
eaten in moderation due to high levels of vitamin A, which can cause bone and
muscle problems.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes
are great if you want to grow your own dog food, but be sure they’re ripe.
Unripe tomatoes can cause tummy aches.
- Beans: Beans
provide fiber and protein, but your dog may enjoy them more if they’re combined
with rice or kibble.
- Broccoli, Cabbage, and Brussels
sprouts: Broccoli,
cabbage,
and brussels
sprouts either raw, steamed, or dried, are good occasionally in small
quantities. Too much can make your dog gassy.
- Parsley: Parsley
isn’t typically included among vegetables dogs eat, but it’s a natural breath
freshener. If your dog isn’t crazy about the flavor of parsley, snip a tiny bit
and add it to their regular kibble.
