Dog-Friendly (and unfriendly) Fruits & Veggies
The Importance of Knowing Which Fruits and Veggies are Safe
We have all experienced that split-second panic when our dog eats something that we aren’t sure is safe. It could be a kid offering their snack to the dog out of kindness, or dropping a bowl of food and not being quick enough to clean it all up before they run to your feet and are licking the floor. While there are a lot of “human” foods that dogs can safely enjoy, there are also a lot of foods that can potentially be dangerous. It’s important to know which ones we need to look out for to ensure our doggie’s safety and wellbeing.
Toxic Fruits
Avocado
While Californians love their Avocados, sharing your leftover avocado toast with your dog isn’t a good idea. The pits, skin, and leaves contain a toxin that can cause stomach problems for your dog. While the flesh has lower levels of the toxin, it is still not good on the tummy.
Cherries
Cherries contain cyanide that can be very dangerous to all animals. The cyanide is in the actual cherry plant, excluding the fleshy part around the seed. Since you can’t be sure to just give them the fleshy part, it’s best to avoid these altogether.
Grapes/Raisins
Grapes are dangerously toxic to all dogs no matter the breed, size, sex, or age. The actual toxin in the grapes is unknown, but eating them has been strongly linked to kidney failure in dogs. If your dog eats one, seek help as soon as possible. Also look out for raisins, since they are dried grapes which still contain that same toxin.
Tomatoes
Ripe red tomatoes are an okay snack, but be careful: the green part of an unripe tomato contains solanine, which can be harmful to dogs. If you have tomatoes in your garden, it’s best to keep your dog away.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits aren’t actually toxic or dangerous to dogs, but they made this list because they can still cause stomach aches. The acidity in these fruits can not only be an unpleasant taste for your pets, but can cause some GI problems.
RULE OF THUMB : Always remove the pits, seeds, or stones from ALL fruit. It may seem tempting to throw your dog the rest of your apple or peach, but a lot of the seeds and cores have cyanide in them. Cyanide can be very dangerous and poisonous to dogs and is released if they chew or break open the seed.
Safe and Healthy Fruits for Dogs
Now that we have covered what to avoid, let’s go over some not only safe, but healthy options for your furry friend!
Apples
Apples are a great and nutritious snack, especially for senior dogs. They are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. You can even freeze them for a nice summer snack.
Bananas
Bananas are another great treat for dogs. They are very high in potassium and contain many vitamins. Because of their sugar content, keep these as an occasional treat rather than part of a main diet.
Blueberries
This superfood is rich in antioxidants and filled with fiber. If you’re teaching your dog to catch treats in the air, try swapping out the treats for blueberries!
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a great option if you want your dog to lose a little bit of weight. They are loaded with vitamins but contain no carbs, fats, or oils.
Honorable mentions that are good in limited quantities: watermelon, cantaloupe, peaches, mango, strawberries, cranberries, pears, and raspberries.
Toxic Veggies
Vegetables are pretty much a given at dinnertime; whether it’s a whole plate of greens, or adding some seasoning with some garlic or onion. Some of the most common veggies are actually dangerous to animals; knowing which ones can help prevent a potentially life-threatening accident.
Mushrooms
Not all mushrooms are bad, but the ones that are bad are so toxic that it is best to avoid them all together. Specifically, wild mushrooms are toxic to dogs. Look out for any wild mushrooms growing in your yard that your dog could get into.
Onions
Onions, leeks, and chives are poisonous to most pets, not just dogs. They can cause everything from vomiting to blood cell rupture, so be very mindful on sharing your meals if you used onions or onion powder.
Garlic
Garlic, if ingested, can have very similar negative consequences as onions. These two are very common seasonings, so just be careful when you use them to clean up any that fell on the ground.
Asparagus
Asparagus, while not toxic to dogs, contains no nutrients. Raw asparagus is hard to digest, and cooked asparagus has no benefits. If you are deciding on whether or not to give your dog some, try one of the other suggestions below.
Broccoli and Brussel Sprouts
Broccoli and brussel sprouts are also not toxic to dogs. They both have a lot of nutrients and antioxidants, but can cause a lot of gas (which if fun for no one).
Safe Veggies
Now that all the bad ones are out of the way, here are all the equally delicious and nutritious “greens” that your dog can safely enjoy.
Carrots
Carrots have many benefits for your dog. They are high in beta-carotene and fiber. And, they are fun to chew and good for your dog’s teeth.
Green Beans
Green beans are safe as long as they are plain and are full of vitamins, minerals, and fibers. Peas in general are a great option for dogs. If you are giving them something from the can, look for ones that are low in sodium.
Sweet Potatoes
Last but not least are sweet potatoes. This may not be something we would think of as healthy for our dogs, but they actually support a healthy digestive system, are low in fat, and contain vitamin B6, C, and A.
The more you know, the more you can share!
We all want to share as much as possible with our dogs, whether it’s our beds, time, or our food. Knowing which fruits and veggies you can give your dog not only prevents a potential emergency, but allows you to share something with your dog that will help their health and taste good. Share away!
Works Cited:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/
https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/do-dogs-need-veggies#:~:text=Carrots%2C%20peas%2C%20green%20beans%2C,also%20help%20dogs%20stay%20regular.
https://www.lovethegarden.com/uk-en/article/12-fruits-and-vegetables-are-toxic-dogs
This blog was written by Samantha Dailey, the Social Media Associate at Dog Tired Adventures. Sam loves to hike around the hills, find new recipes, and to hangout with her Shih-Tzu Maltese she’s had since she was a kid.