MSU Extension 4-H Companion Animals

Many veterinarians will agree that adding fresh vegetables to your pet’s diet is good for them. Michigan State University Extension suggests a few fruits and vegetables your pooch will enjoy.

• Apples. Many dogs love apples either because of the taste or crunch. Apples contain vitamins A and C and are a great source of fiber. Do not feed apple seeds to your dog, as they contain trace amounts of toxins.
• Blueberries. Fresh or frozen, dogs love blueberries. With high levels of antioxidants boosting your dog’s immune system, blueberries make a great treat. Research from the University of Alaska Veterinarians suggests dogs’ muscles recover quicker from eating blueberries after rigorous activity than dogs that did not eat blueberries.
• Broccoli. Dogs, like people, seem to reap the cancer-fighting benefits of broccoli. However, broccoli should be fed sparingly, as there is a weak toxin called isothiocyanate that may cause gastric upset in your pooch. Broccoli is a good source of vitamin A.
• Carrots. This treat is not only tasty, but also full of fiber, beta-carotene and vitamin A. This high-fiber vegetable is good for dogs’ eyes and coat health.
• Cucumbers. Even dogs like a cool cucumber on a hot day. The tough, waxy skin may cause gastric upset, so peeled is preferred by most dogs. The vitamin C in this crunchy treat is an added bonus.
• Spinach is among the most nutrient-dense vegetables, with high levels of iron, beta-carotene, calcium and many other vitamins. For best absorption, feed your dog chopped spinach.
• Green beans are a great addition to a dog’s kibble to aid in weight loss.
• Pumpkin is a fantastic treat for your dog and is prescribed by many veterinarians as a diet supplement. This garden hero is loaded with health benefits, including being high in fiber and helping with weight loss. It can bulk up stools or constipation if your pet is experiencing these issues.
• Raspberries and strawberries are also a favored garden treat. Your pet may just help themselves once they discover these delectable fruits. You may need to restrict access to the garden, as too many berries can cause diarrhea.
• Sweet potatoes are another vegetable recommended by veterinarians. They are loaded with vitamins, minerals, calcium and fiber. Sweet potatoes are a great food for many dogs with allergies. These sweet gems keep your dog’s body strong and healthy.
• Tomatoes. Give your dog only ripe tomatoes as green tomatoes can be dangerous for your pet. These tasty fruits are full of vitamins and some dogs will eat them right off the vine.
• Watermelon. Vitamins from watermelon include A, B-6 and C, and they are high in potassium. This treat is a great way to keep your dog hydrated as well. Remove seeds, as they may cause intestinal blockages. 
• Zucchini offers dogs vitamins, minerals and fiber. Shredding and freezing extra zucchini in ice cube trays is a welcomed winter treat.

There are a few garden vegetables your pet should not consume—onions, grapes and raisins top that list. For a more complete list of fruits and vegetables your dog should and should not eat, visit the American Kennel Club's article, “Fruits & Vegetables Dogs Can and Can’t Eat.” Learn more outdoor tips for your dogs in the MSU Extension article, "Dogscaping: Landscaping for you and your dog." 

Looking for more ways to serve your pet a treat? Here is a snack from Doggy Dessert Chef that your dog will love!

Fruit and veggie sticks for dogs

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 banana
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/4 cup sugar-free applesauce
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
• Spread by hand 1/4-inch thick onto the prepared baking sheet .
• Cut with a pizza cutter into small sticks.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes.
• Cool and break into pieces, refrigerate for up to two weeks.