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Petmate Academy August 9, 2018 |
Fruits are a nice sweet treat for us humans, but did you know that your pup can have them too? A lot of fruits are safe for our dogs to eat, but some can be dangerous for them to ingest. Remember treats should be given in moderation and should not substitute for your dog's meals. Below are ten fruits that are safe for your pup to eat.
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, and vitamins A & C. They are low in protein and fat making them the perfect snack for senior dogs. The core and seeds of apples should not be consumed.
In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They’re high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog’s regular diet.
Blueberries are a superfood rich in antioxidants, which prevent cell damage in humans and canines alike. They’re packed with fiber and phytochemicals as well.
Cantaloupe is packed with nutrients, low in calories, and a great source of water and fiber. It is, however, high in sugar, so should be shared in moderation. Remove the rind and lay off the salt, which can cause excessive thirst and urination, dehydrating your dog.
Both cranberries and dried cranberries are safe to feed to dogs in small quantities. Whether your dog will like this tart treat is another question. Either way, moderation is important when feeding cranberries to dogs, as with any treat, as too many cranberries can lead to an upset stomach.
This sweet summer treat is packed with four different vitamins! Vitamins A, B6, C, and E. They also have potassium and both beta-carotene and alpha-carotene. Just remember to remove the hard pit first.
Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Vets recommend tossing the peel and just giving your dog the inside of the orange, minus the seeds.
Pears are a great snack because they’re high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. It’s been suggested that eating the fruit can reduce the risk of having a stroke by 50 percent. Just be sure to cut pears into bite-size chunks for the perfect-sized treat.
Strawberries are full of fiber and vitamin C. Along with that, they also contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth as he or she eats them.
Watermelon is made of 92% water, so this sweet fruit is great for keeping pets hydrated and preventing heat stroke. It’s also full of vitamins A, B6, and C, which can make your dog’s coat shinier and keep teeth in good shape. Be sure to remove the majority of seeds, which can cause intestinal discomfort or even blockage if too many are ingested.
For most of these fruits be sure that your pet doesn’t eat the seeds, pits, or peel. Always talk to your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns regarding fruit and your dog’s diet.
Sources:
Adopting A Senior Cat
Common Canine Leg Injuries
Pet Strollers: Why Pet Parents Should Consider a Pet Stroller
Keeping Your Dog Safe In The Summer Heat
