You’re munching down on a delicious, juicy mixed fruit bowl. Your best friend walks over, staring at you with those adorable, pleading eyes. You hesitate for a moment, unsure of whether or not it’s safe to share your snack with him.
Well, here’s some good news! Your dog can easily ingest many of the same fruits and vegetables that you and I enjoy. Instead of buying expensive (or questionably cheap) treats from the pet store, try some of these natural, healthy options that you’ve already got stored in the pantry.
I Like to Eat, Eat, Eat, Apples & Bananas!
Both of these tasty treats are high in fiber and potassium, essential nutrients for healthy kidneys and digestion. In addition to their crunchy texture, apples are like nature’s floss. Your pup will love the semi-sweet flavor, and they’ll be getting rid of the odor-causing plaque that builds up between their teeth. Add a bit of peanut butter for an extra dose of healthy fats and protein.
Bananas, on the other hand, happen to be a fantastic choice for senior pets who need some extra vitamins but have a tough time chewing. Mash half a banana up and mix it in with your dog’s regular food, or slice up a firmer one and sprinkle the pieces over their kibble.
Then, eat the other half!
Blackberries
This may come as a surprise, but dogs absolutely love the taste of blackberries! The firm outer skin combined with the satisfying burst of juice is an excellent way to add a little flavor to your pup’s meal while keeping blood sugar levels in check. Our pets are just as susceptible to cancer-causing free radicals as we are, so it’s paramount to provide them with a regular dose of antioxidants to fight off rogue cells.
Luckily, blackberries contain both antioxidants and Omega fatty acids, promoting healthy skin and a shiny, soft, supple coat of fur.
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Green Beans & Carrots
When freshly chopped and mixed with a veggie broth, your dog will go nuts for a surprise helping of green beans and carrots. As we know, carrots are an essential part of optical health. Vision deterioration is a common symptom of aging in canines, so starting prevention methods early might help your pup’s eyesight remain sharp for a longer period of time.
The carrot’s trusty partner, green beans, fills up the tummy and keeps our four-legged friend at a healthy weight. Obese canines and dogs who carry excess fat are more likely to have hip problems. Green beans are a magnificent source of calcium, iron, protein, vitamin K, and vitamin C.
Not to mention, they’re packed with folate, a crucial enzyme necessary for optimal brain function.
These are Snacks, Not Meals!
Since berries and fruit contain a higher level of naturally occurring sugar than veggies, you should save those for special occasions! If you’re introducing these foods to your pup for the first time, take it slow. Once their body has adjusted, you can gradually increase the serving size based on your pet’s individual needs and requirements.
