Dogs can benefit from snacking on fruits and veggies too!

Dogs can benefit from snacking on fruits and veggies too!

There is no question about it, dogs love treats! As soon as you reach into the cupboard with just the thought of giving them a treat, their ears perk up and within seconds your furry friend can be found by your side waiting to see what delicious snack is coming their way (don’t get us started on the crackling of a plastic wrapper – those can signal a dog from an entirely different area of the house!). But even though they can’t get enough of their beloved dog treats, it doesn’t mean that is all they will enjoy. Sometimes you don’t need to look any further than the fruit and vegetables you have in the fridge to find a quick and healthy treat for your furry friend.

Fruits and vegetables are not only nutritious and vitamin-rich, they are tasty too, which is really the only requirement for dogs when it comes to their food. To take some of the guesswork out of your day, here is a list of just some of our dogs’ favourite treats.

Carrots
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and are an enjoyable crunchy snack. Cut them up into small pieces to reduce choking hazards and give them as a treat or a food topper. As an added bonus, carrots will help keep their pearly whites clean and tartar-free.

Cooked sweet potato
Peeled and cooked (NEVER raw) sweet potatoes are rich in Vitamin A and an ideal treat once in a while. This high-fibre treat not only tastes great but can also help dogs maintain regular, healthy bowel movements.

Broccoli
No matter how you serve it – raw, steamed or cooked, most dogs love broccoli! And even better, this popular snack is naturally rich in vitamin K, potassium and calcium!

Cooked pumpkin
Pumpkin is a quick and easy way to treat your pup while also giving them the nutritious boost they will love! Canned, unseasoned pumpkin is best for dogs and can help benefit their digestive tract as well as help promote a healthy coat and skin.

Blueberries
Blueberries are a quick, easy snack that is high in vitamins C and K as well as fibre. They are perfect on their own or on top of their food.

Banana
Bananas are a healthy, occasional sweet treat for your dog! Though they are high in natural sugars, they are also packed with vitamin C, potassium as well as magnesium.

Strawberries
Like bananas, strawberries are a sweet snack that your dog will love – and they also happen to be rich in vitamin C! Keep in mind strawberries are high in sugar, so give these sparingly when you really want to treat your pup.

Some fruits and vegetables are better than others, while some are actually toxic including grapes, avocado and onions. If you are ever unsure, you should always check with your vet prior to giving them to your dog. Keep in mind that whenever trying out new food, it is best to err on the side of caution by starting with a small portion to ensure it does not upset your dog’s stomach. Now let the fun begin and start testing out what new snacks will be your dog’s new favourites.