Fruit and vegetables good for dogs

Updated 24/04/2024

Are fruits and vegetables good for dogs? Well, like us humans, bark babies can benefit from a few greens from time to time. But which are considered healthy fruit and veg for dogs? Are there any out there that them stay active, make their coats super shiny, or give them some added protection from illnesses? Well, we’ve dug up and unearthed which natural nibbles are best for your doggo’s health and listed which fruits and vegetables are healthy for dogs.

What fruits and vegetables are good for dogs?

Before we tuck in, even though this is of dog-safe fruits and vegetables, pet parents and canine carers should never suddenly change up their dog’s diet. Talk to your vet first and discuss a potential plan to add some fruit and veg into their daily dinners. New threats, no matter how natural they are, must be introduced slowly and in very small amounts.

With that in mind, here are some dog-friendly vegetables and fruits that are slobber-baby safe:

• Apples (remove the seeds)
• Bananas
• Blackberries
• Blueberries
• Broccoli
• Brussel sprouts
• Cantaloupe
• Carrots
• Celery
• Coconut (remove the husk)
• Cranberries
• Cucumbers
• Green beans
• Lettuce
• Mango (remove the pit)
• Nectarines (remove the seeds)
• Oranges
• Peaches (remove the pit)
• Pears
• Peas
• Pineapple
• Potatoes
• Raspberries
• Strawberries
• Spinach
• Sweet potatoes
• Watermelon (remove the seeds)

Although these are widely regarded as safe foods for pups, keep an eye on them and their behavior after eating something new. If you notice any odd changes, a lack of energy, or something wrong with their poop, head to the vet’s straight away.

A list of healthy fruit and veg for dogs

So, of the list of safe natural snacks,  which of these dog-safe fruits and vegetables can have a paw-sitive effect on your pooch’s wellbeing? Let’s start with a few furry favorites:

Banana

Just like us humans, bananas are a good source of potassium for dogs. Potassium is great for blood flow, meaning it helps keep your pupper active and healthy. They also contain vitamin B6 which helps bring more oxygen to their brain and muscles. Plus, they have some tasty antioxidants and vitamin C to keep their bones strong.

Sweet Potato

Many pet parents will know this to be a favorite with their fur family. Not only do doggos adore sweet potatoes, but they are full of vitamins and minerals. We’re talking about carotenoids, vitamin C, pyridoxine, potassium, fiber, magnesium, copper, iron, and manganese in super healthy amounts. These all help your hound to have healthy skin and coat texture, keep them feeling energized, and help to keep away any nasty disease.

Papaya or Papaws

Papaya is another snuffle superfood. This tropical treat is bursting with vitamin C, most of the B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and a great source of fiber. These all keep their joints and legs limber and their hearts happy and healthy.

Carrots

Fun fact - carrots can help your dog’s blood to clot (in a good way). If they scratch or hurt themselves, the vitamin K within carrots helps them heal. Magic, right? To add to this edible first aid kit also gives them healthy, regulated energy. Carrots have loads of carotenoids, fiber, Vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, manganese, most of the B vitamins, and phosphorus.

Blueberries

Blueberries are just one of those fruits that seem to only do good. The same benefits they have for humans they also have for dogs. Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E, manganese, and fiber, these tiny tasty treats are irresistible to most pups. 

Green Beans

This always seems to surprise pet parents, but not only are green beans safe for snuffle babies, but they’re also super healthy. Chuck full of vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, fiber, vitamin C, carotenoids, potassium, B vitamins, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, iron, and manganese, green beans make an excellent addition to doggy dinner times. Remember to always boil or steam them and let them cool before feeding them to your pup.

Pumpkin

Did you know pumpkin is good for pups with an upset stomach? Yep, if their tiny tummy is unhappy, a piece of pumpkin might help them. Not only this, but this fruit is low in sodium and an excellent source of vitamins It’s high in carotenoids, potassium, vitamin C, calcium, and B vitamins. Pumpkin patches for all pups, people!

What are not dog-safe fruits and vegetables?

Although they may look harmless to use, there are some fruits and vegetables out there that are toxic to dogs. These are a few known examples:

• Avocado: 
• Citrus fruits
• Rhubarb
• Mushrooms
• Grapes and raisins
• Onions 
• Garlic
• Chives
• Shallots
• Leeks

Your pup may be put off eating a few of the above because of their odor. However, for curious canines who’ll eat anything, you must take them straight to the vet if you think they’ve eaten any of these toxic foods. Similarly, if they’ve eaten something and you’re unsure whether or not it’s poisonous, contact your vet immediately.

Meet our veterinary expert, Greg

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr Greg Steele MA VETMB MRCVS. A mixed vet working in the UK since qualifying from Cambridge University in 2015. Greg enjoys working with all species of animals in all settings, but equally takes pride in communication and education of clients too. He lives with his wife and their cat, and enjoys a variety of sports, gardening, and the great outdoors.

If you’re a keen cook who’s looking to impress their pup, check out our very own TrustedHousesitters Dine With Your Dog recipe book - 7 delicious doggy treats and meals (that are vet certified) for you and your pooch to enjoy. For those hungry to know more about who we are and how you can become part of our pet-loving community, see what we’re all about and take a look at our different membership options.