Should I add Fruits and Vegetables to my Dog’s Diet?

If you are one of the many pet parents becoming more aware of your pet’s nutritional needs, here’s your beginning guide to start! The answer is simpler than you think, and mirrors your own need for nutrition: YES, add fruits and vegetables to your dog’s diet! But why should you add fruits and veggies to your dog's meals?

Here are the top 5 benefits, with a very important note at the end:

1. Fruits and veggies are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and E, and potassium, magnesium, and fiber. These nutrients can help support your dog's immune system, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being. Quite honestly–the health benefits are endless and contribute to long-term preventative health.
2. Fruits and veggies can help prevent nutrient deficiencies, which can lead to a variety of health issues and expensive vet visits. Just like humans, dogs need a balanced and varied diet to thrive. By incorporating fruits and vegetables into your dog's diet, you can help ensure that they're getting all the nutrients they need to support their health and well-being.
3. Fruits and veggies can be a low-calorie treat. If your dog is overweight or obese, adding fruits and vegetables to their diet can be a great way to provide them with a low-calorie treat that's packed with nutrients. For example, you can give your dog a sliced apple as a tasty and healthy snack, or a carrot as a natural toothbrush to remove plaque and tartar!
4. Fruits and veggies can help prevent digestive upset. Some dogs are sensitive to certain ingredients in commercial dog food and its highly-processed components. Fruits and vegetables are gentle on the digestive system and packed with fiber, making them easy to digest.
5. Fruits and veggies can keep your dog's meals interesting and exciting. Let's face it, eating the same thing day after day can get boring, that’s why your dog will swipe that piece of chicken you drop on the floor while cooking! By incorporating fruits and vegetables into your dog's diet, you can keep them interested in their meals, and prevent them from getting bored or losing interest. This can help keep them engaged and motivated to eat, and make mealtime more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.

So why not give fruits and vegetables a try and see how they benefit your dog's health and well-being?

Important note– remember to stick to dog-safe fruits and vegetables, and avoid giving your dog any foods that are toxic to dogs, such as grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic. Have fun experimenting with different fruits and veggies to see which ones your dog likes best–they might surprise you!