The Right Nutrition: Are Veggies Good for Your Dog?

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Fitness & Health

Published on Thursday, 25 June 2020 12:00

Last Updated on 25 June 2020

Monica Costa

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There’s no question that dogs are an important part of any family. Many people want to feed them like they do the rest of their family. Unfortunately, there are many foods that can be dangerous and damaging to a dog’s health and well-being.

However, this isn’t true for all foods. For example, vegetables can be quite healthy for dogs. While some great options can be found at Veterinary Naturals, knowing the best veggies to feed dogs is the best way to ensure they get the nutrients needed to remain healthy.

Remember, just like people, dogs require certain organic nutrients and foods to achieve a balanced diet. Veggies are full of phytonutrients, enzymes, antioxidants, minerals, and fibre that are not found in meat. It is essential to feed a dog various types of vegetables because each one has its own array of nutrients.

Preparing Vegetables for Dogs

The way the vegetables are prepped is just as important as the actual vegetables that are served. For example, they need to be cut small enough so the dog doesn’t choke. Also, for the best results, puree the veggies before giving to a dog. Remember, veggies are a great treat or snack for a dog as long as the pet won’t have trouble digesting them. Some prep methods are found below.

Blanch the Vegetables

Putting the vegetables in boiling hot water and then cold water is the blanching process. It is a great option for preparing veggies for a dog. Blanching will clean the surface of any remaining dirt while retaining the flavour and vitamins.

Steam the Vegetables

Steaming is a good method for cooking veggies, too. This doesn’t require a person to submerge them in boiling water, which may reduce the nutrient content in the vegetable being cooked. With steaming, the veggies are cooked through but the flavour and bright colour are preserved. Much of the nutrient content is, as well.

Puree the Vegetables

For the biggest benefits and digestibility, it is possible to puree the veggies being served to a dog. Some vegetables, such as spinach and celery, don’t have to be cooked before they are blended. However, root veggies, such as sweet potatoes and carrots, need to be steamed and blanched to make sure blending is possible. When vegetables are pureed, they will break down the cell wall of the plant material, which makes it easier for the dog to digest.

Freeze the Vegetables

Cooking vegetables in bigger batches and then storing them in the freezer is a good way to save effort and time. After the veggies are pureed, put them in an ice cube tray and just grab some when in a hurry. It is a simple, fast, and healthy snack for any dog.

Now that a dog owner knows how to prepare the veggies, it is time to learn about which ones are best for the four-legged members of the family. These are found below.

Kale

The key vitamins, such as A, K, and iron offer improved bone health, immune function, proper vision, energy metabolism, and fetal development.

Cucumbers

These are especially beneficial for dogs that are overweight. That’s because they have very little oils, fats, or carbohydrates. They can also boost the dog’s energy levels. Cucumbers are full of vitamins B1, C, and K, along with biotin, magnesium, copper, and potassium.

Broccoli

Broccoli is considered safe for dogs, but they should only eat it in small quantities. It is also best to use this as a treat. It is full of vitamin C, fibre, and low in fat. However, florets of broccoli include isothiocyanates, which can cause gastric irritation in certain breeds of dogs. Also, try not to serve the stalks of broccoli to dogs, as they may cause an obstruction in the esophagus.

Brussels Sprouts

When cooked properly, Brussels sprouts are full of antioxidants and nutrients that are good for both dogs and humans. Just be careful not to feed too many of these to a dog. That’s because they can cause a lot of gas. Cabbage is also safe for dogs to eat, but it comes with some gas-producing issues.

Carrots

Carrots are considered a quality, low-calorie snack that is also high in beta-carotene that produces vitamin A and fibre. Also, crunching on carrots is great for a dog’s teeth.

Peas

English peas, garden peas, sugar snap peas, snow peas, and green peas are all safe for dogs. Also, peas have several minerals and vitamins. They are also high in fibre and rich in protein. It is possible to feed dogs frozen or fresh peas, but try to avoid canned peas that have any added sodium.

Green Beans

Similar to peas, canned, raw, steamed, chopped, and any other type of green bean is safe for dogs to consume. This is true as long as they are kept plain. Green beans are full of all sorts of important minerals and vitamins. They are also full of fibre and low calory. Try to choose a low- or no-salt option if using canned green beans.

Beets

Beets offer potassium, manganese, folate, fibre, and vitamin C. All these nutrients will help a dog’s digestion and their immune system while supporting a health coat and skin.

Yams and Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are good for digestive health because they are very high in fibre. They also contain vitamin C and B6 along with manganese. These even contain beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant.

Keeping a Dog Healthy and Happy with the Right Veggies

When it comes to keeping a dog healthy and happy, knowing the right foods to feed them is essential. The right food will improve a dog’s well-being and ensure they don’t suffer any issues or illnesses.

Remember, it is best to ensure that a dog has the right food, which may require consulting with their vet. The vet can provide more specified recommendations about what a dog should and should not eat to ensure they remain healthy and happy throughout their life.