It’s easy to be intimidated by fresh feeding, but it doesn’t have to be. While adding meat to your dog’s bowl is quite beneficial, you can also give them some fruit. Nonetheless, some fruits can be harmful to your dog. Grapes and raisins are examples of this. But don’t dismiss them all. Some are quite beneficial to include in their bowl. Fruit and vegetables are included in certain fresh food models, but not in others. Adding fruit to your dog’s diet as a supplement is useful in either case.
1. Apples
Vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, are abundant in apples. However, because they are lower in protein and fat, they are ideal treats for older dogs or those who are trying to lose weight. Make sure to remove the core and seeds before feeding, as they contain minor levels of cyanide, which is hazardous to dogs.
2. Berries
Berries are a common favorite. They are high in manganese, fiber, and vitamins K, C, and E. Apart from all of those benefits, they also have phytochemicals and antioxidants that are said to help with immunity, and even chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, and aging.
Beneficial berries include:
- Cranberries
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Strawberries
- Blackberries
3. Oranges
Oranges include thiamine, a vitamin that is essential for your dog’s health. Because it is involved in glucose metabolism, thiamine benefits your brain and other high-energy organs. This is when the body breaks down carbohydrates and converts them to ATP (energy for the body). Vitamin C, potassium, and folate are all abundant in oranges. These should be fed with extreme caution because they are heavy in sugar, which is bad for your dog’s GI tract.
4.Pears
Most people forget about pears. They seem to be the ugly duckling of the fruit family. But they pack a punch! Full of fiber, vitamins A, and C, and electrolytes make this fruit not only the most hydrating of them all, but also the best option for dogs with diabetes as they are low in sugar. Pears are also a cooling food, making them a great choice for pups with allergies! I also add cinnamon and kefir to this fruit because my pups have been known to turn their nose up at it.
5.Mango
Mangos aren’t a popular choice when it comes to giving your pup a healthy snack, but they should be! Mangos are one of the only fruits that have vitamin E in them. Vitamin E helps with your dogs circulatory system, muscle building, and immune system. It is an antioxidant, which also helps fight free radical damage. Mangos also have fiber, and vitamins B6, A, and C. Mangos are also very high in sugar and should be fed sparingly as with all high sugar fruits!
6.Watermelon
Watermelon recently became super popular to feed your dogs because they seem to really love it! Watermelon is high in potassium, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and B6. When it’s hot during the summer it is a great way to hydrate them as well! I would avoid the rind and the seeds, while neither are toxic, they both can cause intestinal blockage.
7.Cantaloupe
While watermelon is the most popular, cantaloupe is the most beneficial of the melon family. It helps with eyesight because of its large amounts of beta carotene. Cantaloupe also has fiber, folate, potassium, and vitamins B6, A, and C. It is also great for dogs struggling with their weight because it has niacin, which helps break down fatty tissue.
8.Kiwi
Kiwi is a fruit that commonly gets lost in the mix at the grocery store. While it has the typical fiber and potassium, it is also full of flavonoids and carotenoids. These help with cell rejuvenation, fighting cancer, and boosting the immune system.
9.Pumpkin
Zinc is super important for thyroid function, as well as immune system function. In fact, zinc deficiency is known as the “silent killer” for dogs. A natural source you can add to your dogs’ diet, to up their zinc levels is surprisingly pumpkin. Pumpkin is also high in phosphorus, vitamin C, iron, folate and magnesium.
While all of these are beneficial for your furry kid, make sure you feed them in moderation. Small quantities are best. Use them as a treat or a meal topper. You also don’t have to feed them all in original form, get creative and mix it up! I gave a few suggestions, but the options are truly endless with adding fruits and veggies to your pups’ diet. If your pup won’t eat these things, no worries, you are able to find all of these essential vitamins in fresh meat as well!
One thought on “9 Beneficial Fruits for Dogs”