Mention adding vegetables or fruits to a dog’s diet and a lot of people are surprised. It is a common misconception that dogs only eat meat – just think about the times you’ve seen your canine eat grass out in the yard. Fresh produce contains much needed fiber and antioxidants which may bring the same health benefits to your dog as to a human. For example, carrots are good for eye health while fruits with high levels of antioxidants may help fight cancer and slow aging.
So is it safe to feed them any type of fruit and vegetable and in any form? Not exactly. Dogs have shorter intestines and don’t digest produce as well as humans, so it is best to only feed produce as a fifth to a quarter of their meals. It is also best to feed produce cooked, which will help make them easier to digest. However, giving a carrot or celery stick or a slice of apple as a treat instead of fattening dog bones is okay. Just don’t overdo it. It’s always best to start off with very small amounts to see how your pet will react. The following should NEVER be fed to dogs as they are toxic:
Cherry or peach pits or apple seeds. Dogs will swallow these, but they are toxic, so it’s best to just give chunks of the fruit already pitted or seeded.
Avocados, tomatoes, grapes, and raisins are toxic. They should never be given to dogs.
Onions and garlic contain a chemical called thiosulphate which will cause anemia in dogs. Never give these in any form. This includes onion and garlic flavorings in “people” food, so these processed foods should never be given.
