Dogs are often big fans of carrots, which are sweet, crunchy and fun to chew on. Feed them fresh, cooked, or frozen, but be sure to cut them to the right size for Fido or mix them to make sure they're easy to digest and don't pose a risk of suffocation. Carrots are a great low-calorie snack high in fiber and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. Plus, making this orange vegetable crunch is great for your dog's teeth (and it's fun) and is included in many dog foods.
Sweet potatoes are very rich in nutrients and offer a wide range of health benefits for both humans and dogs. Raw sweet potatoes are poorly digestible and risk causing blockages if large pieces are swallowed. Okay, technically they're legumes, but peas are still worthy of a spot on this list when fed in moderation. Just avoid canned varieties, as they may have added sodium or preservatives.
Dogs aren't usually as picky as children when it comes to eating vegetables, so why not see if broccoli is something they like? You can serve it raw or cooked as long as you skip any condiments, or simply give it some frozen broccoli as a quick and easy snack. Keep in mind that there is a risk associated with this cruciferous vegetable, since it contains compounds called isothiocyanates which can cause gastric irritation in some dogs when they are overfed, from mild to severe. Moderation is definitely the key when it comes to offering broccoli. Cooked or raw, celery is a safe choice for dogs, many of whom actually enjoy its super crunchy texture. However, keep in mind that not all dogs tolerate celery well, so you'll want to avoid it if your dog develops stomach problems or urinary changes after eating.
The natural sweetness of green beans makes them a tasty option, while their many nutrients (protein, iron, calcium, and vitamins B6, A, C and K, to name a few) make them an occasional, healthy treat option. For something with such a high water content, cucumbers do gain weight when it comes to nutritional value. And they're an especially useful treat if you live in a warm climate, as they offer a quick dose of hydrating refreshment on a warm day. Cauliflower has had its moment, but not only we bipeds can benefit from it. Dogs can safely eat cauliflower in many preparations, including raw, steamed, roasted and with rice. In addition to the fact that it's a lot of fun to watch a dog eat an apple, the powerful antioxidants and the large amount of vitamin C will also work wonders for your dog's diet.
Pumpkin is also an excellent source of fiber and vitamins A and C. Lightly cooked pumpkin is easier for dogs to digest and, if fed in small quantities, can help relieve constipation in dogs. Give your dog some healthy snacks while cooking by consuming some of the five vegetables listed above that have the most nutrients. But which ones should you avoid feeding your dog? Let's take a look at the best and worst vegetables for dogs. Tomatoes should be avoided due to their acidic nature which may cause stomach upset, diarrhea or vomiting in some dogs.
Watermelon is safe for dogs but should be consumed without its shell and seeds as they can cause intestinal obstruction. Regular dog food is optimized for the needs of most dogs but adding vegetables can also provide great health benefits. Feeding your dog vegetables is no substitute for taking it to a licensed expert who can diagnose and treat serious illnesses or conditions.
