Even if you feed kibble, you can boost its overall nutrition by adding fresh foods that will promote optimal health. Dogs thrive on a diverse range of nutritious ingredients including:
- Fresh meat (including fish).
- Eggs.
- Whole foods like vegetables and fruits.
- Natural nutrients.
Next, let’s explore the advantages of boosting canine health by adding vegetables, fruits, and supplements to your dog’s daily diet.
Did You Miss Our Last Blog, “Weighing the Pros and Cons of Kibble?” Click here to read it now.
The Power of Vegetables and Fruits
Dogs benefit from the natural vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants found in fresh vegetables and fruits. Natural nutrients will:
- Enhance your dog’s immune system.
- Support healthy digestion.
- Contribute to overall well-being.
Incorporating fresh vegetables and fruits offers a nutritious boost to your dog’s diet. (Source: DrHarveys.com)
Boosting Canine Health: Fresh, Raw Vegetables
Beets (unpeeled; raw or cooked)
- Promotes both healthy skin and coat.
- Boosts the immune and digestive systems.
- Source of fiber, folate, manganese, potassium and Vitamin C.
Bell Peppers
- Contain more vitamin C than oranges!
- Boosts the immune system, reduces inflammation and promotes healthy skin/ coat and eyes.
Broccoli
- Boosts the immune system and reduces the risk of some cancers.
- Source of fiber, iron, calcium and Vitamins C and K.
Carrots
- Promotes eye health.
- Source of beta-carotene, biotin, fiber, potassium, Vitamins A, B6 and K.
Celery
- Improves heart health and offers cancer-fighting properties.
- Source of folate, potassium and Vitamins A, B, C and K.
Green Beans
- Low in calories and dogs love the natural sweetness.
- Source of calcium, fiber, iron, manganese, protein and Vitamins A, B6, C and K.
Sweet Potatoes (Boil before feeding)
- Promotes healthy skin/coat, eyes, digestive health, muscles and nerves.
- Source of fiber, manganese, potassium, beta-carotene, Vitamins A, B6 and C.
In addition, cabbage, peas, pumpkin, spinach, brussels sprouts and squash are all healthy and nutritious additions to your dog’s diet.
Boosting Canine Health: Fresh, Raw Fruits
Keep in mind that fruits contain sugar and should always be fed in moderation to prevent unwanted health issues. (Source: DogsNaturallyMagazine.com)
Apples
- Promotes gut health and relieves seasonal allergies.
- Source of fiber, Vitamins A and C, and the antioxidant, quercetin (aka “nature’s Benadryl”), especially in the skin.
- Note: Remove all seeds (and core) before feeding.
Blueberries
- A low-calorie superfood known to support your dog’s immune system; brain function and memory (due to a special nutrient able to cross the blood-brain barrier). Also supports less chronic inflammation and oxidative stress/damage. Blueberries also inhibit tumor growth and promote lower blood sugar.
- Source of more antioxidants than other fruits, even acai.
Cranberries
- Promotes good urinary tract and gut health, manages inflammatory diseases, helps prevent cancer and protects a dog’s teeth.
- Source of fiber, manganese, Vitamins C, E and K1, quercetin and other antioxidants.
Strawberries
- Contain enzymes to help keep your canine’s teeth clean.
- Source of fiber and Vitamin C.
Watermelon
- Contains an antioxidant called lycopene which protects against cell damage, helps prevent sunburn, controls blood pressure, reduces cholesterol and supports the prevention of cancer.
- Source of fiber and Vitamins A, B6 and C.
- Note: Remove all seeds and rind.
The list of vegetables and fruits above is by no means complete. Do your research and talk to your vet first.
Boosting Canine Health: Essential Supplements
In addition to fruits and vegetables, certain supplements can play a crucial role in maintaining your dog’s overall health. (Courtesy: AKC.org)
NOTE
NATURAL sources of oils and fatty acids are ALWAYS preferable
over synthetic, man-made supplements.
Fish Oils: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oils can contribute to a shiny coat, reduce inflammation, and support joint health, especially for dogs with arthritis/joint issues.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oils and certain plant-based sources, they are essential for cardiovascular health, brain function, and a glossy coat.
Glucosamine: A natural compound found in cartilage, glucosamine can aid in maintaining healthy joints and preventing K9 arthritis, especially for aging or very active dogs.
Ultra Oils: Flaxseed, hempseed, and sunflower oils can provide a diverse range of nutrients, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These oils can promote healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall vitality and well-being.
The Final Word
Boosting your’s dog health will contribute to their overall health and well-being. Always work with your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s specific nutritional needs, for his breed and energy requirements, are being met. (Courtesy: TheKindPet.com)
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