Including fruits in your dog’s diet on a regular basis can cater many health benefits. Fruits are laden with vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants, and fibers which can not only boost your pooch’s overall health but also provide additional benefits like uplifting immunity, preventing cancer, and providing much needed—hydration.
No wonder fruits are called super foods, but are all fruits good for dogs? Well, the answer is no. While some fruits can be highly beneficial for dogs, some may pose a potential threat. Therefore, before you add fruits to your dog’s daily diet plan, it is much essential to know which fruits are safe for them and which aren’t.
Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered here. Here’s a list of fruits that may serve as healthy dog foods along with their benefits. Moreover, in this article we’ve also included fruits that you should avoid feeding your dogs, and some fun ways of adding fruits to your dog’s diet!
8 Fruits You CAN Include in Your Dog’s Diet:
Watermelon
A juicy watermelon slice is a great treat for almost all dogs, especially in the sunny afternoons. The high water content of watermelon can keep your dog hydrated and help regulate their body temperature, whereas the vitamins A, B1, B-6, and C promote healthy nerve and muscle functioning. Watermelon also contains lycopene (an antioxidant that gives watermelon its red color), which gives protection against cell damage. But remember, the rind and seeds of watermelon are not safe for dogs and can be harsh on your dog’s gut, so make sure you don’t feed them.
Papaya
Papaya can be very beneficial for your furry friends. It is full of flesh and hence provides a lot of fibers which can improve the bowel movements of a dog. Papaya is full of vitamins A, C, E, K and minerals like potassium and calcium. Therefore, it is great for heart health, digestion, and skin. But again, ensure to keep the rind and seeds away from dogs.
Apples
A juicy, crunchy apple is a big yes-yes for dogs. Apples are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. Also, apples are chock-full of antioxidants which aid cell repair. However, beware of apple seeds as they contain a small amount of cyanide, which is a poisonous substance. Moreover, the core of the apple can also cause choking, so be careful.
Bananas
Bananas are the best option among fruits when you want to go on outings with your furry companion. Due to their innately convenient packaging, they are easy to carry along and can be a great healthy snacking option on the go. Bananas are power packed fruits containing large amounts of potassium and fibers, which are beneficial for muscles and digestion respectively. But bananas have high sugar content, so mind your dog’s diet plan accordingly if they are diabetic or prone to weight gain.
