Healthy Fruits and Vegetables for your Dog

In addition to improving your dog's overall fitness level, adding natural ingredients and other healthy changes to your companion's diet is a great step in the right direction. Thankfully, there are many options waiting for you in your local produce aisle in the form of fruits and veggies! Here are a few options that can improve your dog's nutrition.

Apples - While you should avoid giving your dog any traces of apple seeds since they contain traces of arsenic, Modern Dog Magazine reports that apples are a wonderful source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. There are many ways to feed apples to dogs such as serving it as a frozen slice, making apple pops with apple sauce, or serving it as a dinner topping. Feed your dog dehydrated apples in smaller amounts to prevent an upset tummy.

Pumpkin – Pumpkin will make a delightful treat for your dog. Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber and beta carotene, and a serving can actually help your dog's digestive system and will keep his or her gastrointestinal tract in good shape. In fact, you can tell the pumpkin is rich in the antioxidant just by looking at its bright orange color. If you are wondering about pumpkin seeds, it is recommended that you first roast them and then grind them up before serving them to your dog. Don’t add any salt!

Berries Whether you choose blackberries, raspberries, or blueberries, these fruits are a wonderful source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that can improve your dog's long-term health. Consider placing them in the freezer to make the berries a bit more palatable for your dog and to improve their shelf life.

Bananas - If you're already slicing up a banana to put into your cereal each morning, save a one-inch piece for your dog to enjoy. Bananas contain a healthy dose of potassium and beneficial carbohydrates.

Cantaloupe - Melons like cantaloupe are great options to consider for your dog when he or she is trying to lose a bit of weight. Cantaloupe contains a wide range of nutrients, including beta carotene, potassium, magnesium, fiber, niacin, vitamins A, B and C and a variety of other vitamins and minerals. A one-inch slice is a good size for your dog and he or she will be clamoring for a taste every time you cut one up for breakfast!

Are you already giving your supplementing your pet’s food with fruits and vegetables? Let us know in the comments below which foods your dog goes crazy for!

This content is provided by the pet wellness experts at Hartz. We know that adopting a dog or cat is a huge commitment, so we're here to help you feel confident and become the best pet parent you can be.