Dog Friendly Veggies

As much as some pet parents hate it, our dogs can’t seem to get enough food, especially “people food.” If you are looking for a healthier treat option for Fido, you don’t have to look very far. The vegetables on this list are filled with vitamins and minerals, some are even low in calories and fat while providing fiber to promote healthy digestion.

As with all food, it is important to remember portion size. Keep track of your dog’s intake if you are supplementing dog food with vegetables. Watch out for any reactions that can occur. Vegetables can give your dog gas, so don’t overdo the amount you give them. If this is the first time giving your dog vegetables, give him a small piece first to see their reaction.

Dogs do enjoy these vegetables in raw form; however, they don’t get as many nutrients this way as they have a shorter digestion system. Dogs can eat vegetables raw, cooked, steamed, baked, roasted, grilled, dehydrated, or even pureed. So, get creative when fixing this special treat, but remember that salt is not good for your pets.

The following vegetables are safe for your dog to eat, with suggested portion sizes for treats and the benefits from these veggies.

Potatoes

Dog treat portion size: 1 or 2 wedges, depending on dog’s size
Benefits: Good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, manganese, and fiber
Potatoes must be cooked in some way and should never be given to your dog raw, as raw potato can be toxic

Broccoli Florets

Dog treat portion size: One or two bite-size florets
Benefits: Great source of Vitamins C and K. Good source of Vitamin A, folate, manganese and fiber

Brussel Sprouts

Dog treat portion size: 1/2 to 2 sprouts, depending upon the dog’s size
Benefits: Great source of vitamins K and C. Good source of manganese, folate, fiber, potassium and vitamins A, B1, and B6

Carrots

Dog treat portion size: One or two bite size pieces
Benefits: Great source of vitamin A. Good source of vitamins K and C, fiber, and potassium

Celery

Dog treat portion size: One or two bite size pieces
Benefits: Great source of vitamins A, B, and C

Cucumbers

Dog treat portion size: 1 to 2 bite-size pieces
Benefits: Good source of vitamin K

Green Beans

Dog treat portion size: 1 to 2 bite-size pieces
Benefits: Good source of vitamins C, K, and A, manganese, and fiber

Peas

Dog treat portion size: One or two Sugar snap or snow peas. For English, 1 or 2 tablespoons – depending on the dog’s size
Benefits: Great source of vitamin K, and C. Good source of manganese, fiber, folate, phosphorus, protein, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, potassium and vitamins B1, A, B6, B3, and B2

Sweet Potatoes

Dog treat portion size: Half or one dehydrated chew, depending on the size of the dog
Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons of mashed boiled or steamed sweet potato in dog’s dry dog food
Benefits: Great source of vitamin A. Good source of vitamins C, B6 and B5, manganese, potassium, and fiber

Remember, there are some vegetables you should not feed to your dog. Never offer your dog onions or fresh garlic. Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions or concerns regarding vegetables and your dog’s diet.

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