By Heather Venkat, DVM, MPH, DACVPM
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Fruits My Dog Can Have:
Apples, Apricots, Bananas, Blueberries, Cantaloupe, Coconut, Cranberries, Mangoes, Oranges, Peaches, Pears, Pineapples, Plums, Raspberries, Strawberries
Fruits My Dog Can’t Have:
Watermelon, Cherries, Citrus Fruits, Dates, Figs, Grapes, Raisins
Vegetables My Dog Can Have:
Asparagus, Bell Peppers, Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Cucumbers, Green Beans, Lettuce, Peas, Pumpkin, Sugar Snap Peas, Spinach, Sweet Potatoes, Zucchini
Vegetables My Dog Can’t Have:
Avocados, Corn, Garlic, Kale, Onions, Rhubarb, Tomatoes, Wild Mushrooms
Who doesn’t want a few extra doggy years together with their favorite pal?
One simple way to get this is through diet.
What goes into your fur pal directly influences a dog’s overall health and well being.
The good news is, a wholesome diet doesn’t need to be complicated.
It can start with ingredients that are already in your kitchen.
The foods you feel good on, many of them are what your canine will feel good on too.
With a few exceptions, though.
Today you are about to discover which fruits and vegetables are actually good for your dog, along with which fruits and veggies are harmful.
I’m glad you are here.
Let’s get started.
Why Should I Feed My Dog Fruits and Veggies
Good question.
If some fruits and veggies are actually harmful to your dog, would it be better to skip them all entirely?
Not exactly. Here’s why.
Fruits and vegetables are excellent for boosting a canine’s immune system while helping them maintain a strong and healthy body.
First, by adding fruits and veggies into your pal’s diet, you can ensure he/she is for sure getting essential vitamins and minerals.
Second, unlike many doggy treats, you can know exactly what your dog is getting. (No more lengthy ingredient lists that feel impossible to understand!)
Plus, you have total control over each portion size (good-bye oversized doggy treats!).
In addition to their nutritional value, fruits and veggies also taste great.
They’ll help slim oversized waistlines, they improve bladder health, and they’re a healthy alternative to commercial pet treats.
How Many Fruits and Veggies Should My Dog Eat?
It’s true. Fruits and veggies are backed with nutritious value.
It’s also true that they should only be consumed in moderation.
Believe it or not, if a dog encounters too much fiber (present in many fruits and veggies), he/she is likely to encounter digestive problems.
So taking fruits and veggies in moderation is extremely important.
Lisa Duncan of Doggonereal.com advises, “Fruits and vegetables should comprise about 5 – 10% of your dog’s diet.”
A low intake enters at 4%, plenty is considered between 5 – 10%, with the maximum weighing in at 10-15% of a dog’s total food consumption.
How Do I Introduce My Dog to Fruits and Veggies?
Don’t dive too deep too soon on this one.
Start with just one fruit or vegetable at a time, and in small amounts.
Consider including small amounts of veggies during meal times.
Or toss in an occasional fruit or vegetable as a healthy, low-calorie snack.
Watch for any adverse reactions, including symptoms such as diarrhea, an upset stomach, or skin problems.
If your dog appears fine with a new fruit or veggie, slowly introduce a second kind, and then a third.
If, however, your fur pal experiences negative changes in health, avoid whichever food you introduced and consult your local veterinarian immediately.
Fruits My Dog Can Have
Fruits are generally higher in sugar than their veggie counterparts.
As a result, their consumption should be especially limited for overweight pets.
In addition, fruits should always be properly prepared.
This includes a thorough washing, along with removing any rinds, seeds, and pits.
Here are sixteen fruits that are great for dogs and puppies:
1. Apples
Yes, dogs can eat apples. Apples are a low-fat fruit that are high in fiber, making them the perfect snack for overweight and senior pets.
Plus, they are packed with vitamin A and vitamin C, which serve to promote healthy bones and good doggie tissue.
Preparation is key when enjoying an apple. Apples carry the highest concentration of pesticides among the fruit family, meaning these babies need thorough washing before they meet your dog’s stomach.
One great way to wash away those harmful pesticides is to wash apples in a quick vinegar bath. Simply mix one gallon of water with 1/2 cup vinegar, let your apples soak for a minute or two, and you’re done.
Buying organic apples can also help reduce the amount of pesticide residue. Although you should still always wash the apples even if organic.
Once your apples are thoroughly washed, remove the stem, core, and seeds. Then treat your pal to a snack you can feel good about.
2. Apricots
Loaded with potassium and beta-carotene, Apricots are an excellent tool to help fight canine cancer.
However, always always always remove the pit first. Apricot pits carry a dangerous toxin called cyanide, plus they are the perfect size to lodge in a small dog’s gut and cause dangerous blockage.
In addition to removing the pit, rid the apricot of stems and leaves prior to feeding it to your canine.
3. Bananas
Say yes to a healthy dose of potassium, fiber, magnesium, vitamin B6, and vitamin C when you peel back a ripe banana.
The potassium offers essential heart and kidney support. Plus, when you dice and freeze them, bananas are perfect for an occasional treat.
They are high in sugar, though. So feed them to your dog sparingly.
4. Blueberries
High in antioxidants, blueberries are excellent in helping to prevent cell and tissue damage.
Plus, they are high in fiber, low in fat, and packed with vitamin C. They are also believed to improve night vision, which is a nice added perk.
If you don’t want blueberry stains everywhere, feed these to your pal outside. They’re also less messy if you freeze them first before feeding to your dog.
5. Cantaloupe
Remove the rind and seeds, then slice that baby into manageable wedges and you have a snack to feel good about.
Cantaloupes are high in vitamin A, vitamin B, and vitamin C. They also contain beta carotene and potassium.
Thanks to all these nutrients combined, cantaloupes may help alleviate inflammatory issues.
Unless you thoroughly wash the outside rind, avoid letting your dog lick the outside of a cantaloupe. You never know which harmful bacteria are hanging out on the outside.
6. Coconut
Coconut oil, coconut chips, coconut paste, or coconut milk, you can take your pick when exploring the coconut aisle.
Simply get rid of the husk and you are good to go.
Coconuts contain lauric acid which has proven to boost a dog’s immune system while helping to fight viruses.
Coconut can also help alleviate skin issues including fleas and itchy skin, plus it can help freshen a dog’s breath.
Not to mention, coconut oil is great for improving a canine’s coat, aiding in digestion, and protecting against infections.
7. Cranberries
Fight urinary tract infections for the win. These tart little berries do just that and are loaded with vitamin C and fiber.
Plus, they’re delicious raw, cooked, or dried.
Just avoid the cranberry sauces and juices as they are too high in sugar for your canine buddy and will likely spike an upset stomach.
8. Mangoes
Who doesn’t love a ripe, juicy mango? These babes are a dream come true.
Just be sure you always remove the pit first as it contains dangerous amounts of cyanide.
Also, remove the skin. Then have fun feeding small amounts to your favorite canine buddy.
9. Oranges
Flush toxins and boost the immune system all in one with the plump and juicy orange. Oranges are high in vitamin C and an excellent afternoon snack for any doggie friend.
Do avoid the seeds, peel, leaves, and stem though. Like it or not, they contain oils that have proven poisonous for canines.
10. Peaches
Best cut into slices, peaches are high in vitamin A and are excellent in fighting against infection.
Again, avoid the pit on these babies. Not only do they contain cyanide. They are also the perfect size to lodge in a dog’s intestine and cause painful blockage.
11. Pears
Another fruit high in vitamin A, the pear also brags lots of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber too. Pears are considered anti-cancer and are great for enhancing a canine’s health.
For prep, always remove the seeds as they carry traces of cyanide. Then serve in moderation and ta-da, you’re good to go.
12. Pineapples
High in folate, zinc, vitamin C, and fiber, pineapples are an excellent doggy treat.
They aid in digestion and boost the immune system.
To avoid choking, always remove the spikey skin and hard core before treating your dog. Also, always serve pineapple in small quantities thanks to its high sugar and fiber content.
13. Plums
The flesh part of a plum is fine for a dog to enjoy. However, the pit once again is dangerous. Plum pits include cyanide and, thanks to their size, can unfortunately block intestines.
So if you’re planning to treat with plums, always remove the pit first.
14. Raspberries
High fiber, low sugar, lots of vitamin C, what more can a dog want? Raspberries are considered anti-inflammatory and are great for senior pets.
They are low in calories, making them a great weight-loss treat.
They do, however, contain small amounts of xylitol, a natural sweetener that can make your pup sick if consumed in large amounts.
Fortunately, it would take a very large amount of raspberries to cause any problems, so moderation is key when giving raspberries to your dog.
15. Strawberries
Can dogs eat strawberries, you ask? Yes, yes, and yes!
Eat them raw or puree them first, strawberries are excellent at boosting the immune system while slowing down age-related issues. An easy way to serve them is with their tops cut off, then sliced in half.
These berries are packed with fiber, magnesium, potassium, iodine, folic acid, omega 3 fatty acids, and vitamin B1, B6, C, and K. Basically, they are a dream come true when talking healthy canine treats.
16. Watermelon
Can dogs eat watermelon? Absolutely!
Containing nearly 92% water, watermelons are an excellent source for staying hydrated on a hot summer day. Not to mention, they are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. Potassium alone accounts for healthy muscles and nerve function in dogs.
Always choose seedless watermelons, unless you’re willing to remove the seeds first. Also, cut off the rind too before treating your dog to a watermelon snack.
Fruits My Dog Can’t Have
While many fruits are packed with valuable vitamins and minerals, there are fruits that have proven dangerous for dogs too.
Here are seven fruits to avoid when treating your dog.
1. Cherries
Cherries are a no-no thanks to their toxic pit. Cherry pits contain dangerous amounts of cyanide which can lead to breathing difficulties and even death.
Plus, their tiny size can block the bowels and lead to gut wall damage.
2. Citrus Fruits
Think lemons, limes, and grapefruits on this one. Citrusy fruits can lead to an upset stomach and should be avoided when it comes to doggy snacks.
3. Dates
Another doggy no-no are dates. While they aren’t toxic, dates are not recommended for dogs as only their flesh is actually edible. The pit poses a risk of bowel obstruction and are simply unsafe for a dog to enjoy.
If you are able to remove just the flesh part, you can serve that to your canine. However, moderation is key as dates are high in both fiber and sugar.
4. Figs
Figs are considered an irritant, not a toxin. As such, they can be consumed but only in strict moderation (think once or twice a week).
The high fiber content in figs will likely cause diarrhea. Plus, figs contain fucosin and ficin, both of which are irritants to some dogs.
If your dog does consume a fig, symptoms may include heavy drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Fortunately, because figs are simply an irritant, you can expect the symptoms to pass without needing any intervention.
5. Grapes
Can dogs eat grapes? No, period.
Although the harmful toxin in grapes remains unidentified, when fed to dogs, grapes are still that: toxic. They can lead to kidney damage and even kidney failure if consumed.
If your dog does consume a grape, contact your local veterinarian immediately.
6. Raisins
Like their fresh grape counterpart, raisins are off-limits in the doggy world. They can result in kidney damage and should be avoided at all costs.
Vegetables My Dog Can Have
Veggies are a fantastic way to get great vitamins and minerals into your fur pet. Plus, you’d be surprised what veggies some dogs will be willing to eat and even start begging for!
Optimum ways of prepping vegetables include first steaming or boiling them.
Not only are boiled veggies softer and easier to eat, but they are also more gentle on the canine digestion system.
Other ways of eating vegetables include pureed or in baby food form.
If you opt for baby food, double-check that it doesn’t contain onions and garlic.
And now, here are sixteen vegetables your dog can have.
1. Asparagus
Rich in fiber, high in vitamins, loaded with potassium, asparagus is an excellent meal addition for dogs.
Simply cook the asparagus first to soften it just a bit, then cut it into bite-size pieces so your pal can enjoy it without risk of choking.
2. Bell Peppers
Red, yellow, orange, green, take your pick when browsing the bell pepper aisle. Each variety contains beta carotene and fiber, plus they are loaded with antioxidants too.
To prep, simply remove the stem and seeds first, then cut your pepper into bite-size pieces.
Make sure to stick with bell peppers and avoid the spicy peppers, of course!
3. Broccoli
This one demands moderation. While broccoli is pleasantly loaded with vitamin C and fiber, it also contains isothiocyanate, a chemical known to cause upset stomach among doggy pals. So while a little is great, too much can cause stomach irritation.
For prep, remove the stem first and digestion will be easier.
4. Brussel Sprouts
Another vegetable to be taken in careful moderation is brussel sprouts as it can cause gas among dogs. So cook them until they’re soft, and then feed in small portions.
Brussel sprouts are the perfect size for a dog to enjoy, so no cutting and chopping is necessary. They are loaded with nutrients, high in vitamin C and vitamin K, and contain a dose of fiber too.
5. Cabbage
Cabbage is excellent in both aiding digestion and fighting against cancer. It’ll improve a dog’s skin and fur, and has a pleasant flavor too.
It’s best to cook cabbage first to make it easier to digest. And while your pupper may not enjoy it straight up plain, consider shredding it over a normal doggy meal.
6. Carrots
Low calories meet high fiber in the delicious, crunchy carrot. They are easy to clean, peel, and chop. Or if you prefer even easier, just grab a bag of baby carrots and you’re good to go.
Crunching on carrots is great for a dog’s teeth. Plus, the beta-carotene found in carrots is great for promoting healthy skin and eyes. Feed these in moderation though, thanks to their high carb content.
7. Cauliflower
Cooked or raw, your pup can take his pick on this one. It’s believed cauliflower may help reduce inflammation and is exceptionally great for pets with arthritis.
The fiber content in cauliflower is great in supporting digestive health. However, too much cauliflower can result in an upset stomach. So again, moderation is key.
The best way to eat cauliflower is plain, in small bites. So just remove the stems and leaves first then ta-da, you have a doggy snack to feel good about.
8. Celery
Low in calories, high in antioxidants, vitamin A, B, and C, calcium potassium, iron, sodium, and phosphorus, there’s not much to dislike about the nutrient-packed celery.
The crunch is like a natural toothbrush for a dog’s teeth. Plus, the high water content in celery is great for freshening up your fur pal’s breath.
8. Cucumbers
Cucumber is rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and magnesium. Plus, it contains few carbohydrates and fats so it’s an ideal snack for overweight pets.
Cucumbers have also proven to help lower blood pressure while simultaneously freshening up breath. To prep cucumbers for eating, simply cut the veggie in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, wash, and then chop into bite-size pieces (the cucumber skin is safe for dogs to eat).
9. Green Beans
Grab some green beans and enjoy peace of mind knowing your doggo is getting protein, iron, fiber, manganese, and vitamin A, C, and K all in one.
Green beans are excellent in helping a pet slim down. Plus, they taste great fresh, frozen, or canned. Just be sure the ends are cut off first before serving.
10. Lettuce
A side of lettuce is an excellent source of added water and fiber to your pal’s diet.
Lettuce will help a dog stay hydrated while feeling full at the same time. To serve, simply cut a leaf of lettuce into thin slices then spread it across a regular doggy meal.
11. Peas
Vitamin B, check. Thiamin, check. Potassium, check. Peas are another great snack for a growing dog or puppy. They are known to both boost energy and improve bone health.
Their tiny size keeps prep quick and simple. Plus, they are a great snack whether frozen, thawed, steamed, or mashed.
12. Pumpkin
There’s a whole lot to love about a good, hearty pumpkin snack. Pumpkins are great in helping a pal recover from constipation or diarrhea. They are high in vitamins and minerals and are an excellent source of water.
Always avoid pumpkin pie filling though. Its just too sweet with all the added sugar and spices.
Specifically, pumpkins contain vitamin A, vitamin C, beta carotene, potassium, calcium, zinc, fiber, and magnesium. They are a low-calorie snack and taste delicious whether canned or cooked. You can even feed the pumpkin seeds in moderation.
13. Sugar Snap Peas
Just give these babes a quick rinse and voila, you have yourself a healthy doggy snack.
Sugar snap peas are packed with fiber, protein, phosphorus, folate, zinc, manganese, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin K. So the next time you’re looking for a quick go-to doggy snack, consider sugar snap peas to your rescue.
14. Spinach
Considered a member of the superfood family, spinach contains nearly every vitamin and mineral in the book.
Iron, antioxidants, and vitamin K are among the most prominent. Just be sure to feed these leafy greens in moderation. Large amounts can actually prove harmful and exasperate unwanted kidney problems.
15. Sweet Potatoes
More beneficial than their white potato cousins, sweet potatoes are a veggie to be reckoned with. They are rich in fiber, contain lots of water, and are loaded with nutrients that aid with digestive problems.
Sweet potatoes taste great dehydrated, baked, or boiled. Plus, their nutritional value includes vitamins such as thiamine, niacin, copper, vitamin A, B5, B6, and C, manganese and potassium.
Your pup will get more benefit from a sweet potato if the skin is left on, although they are still healthy without the skin too. Just avoid adding butter or oils to the potato when feeding to your furry friend.
Say yes to an uber-healthy snack when reaching for that next sweet potato.
16. Zucchini
Zucchini is excellent in protecting against infections, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. It’s rich in vitamin C and B, magnesium, and potassium.
Plus, it is low in calories and a fantastic source of dietary fiber. Simply shred it over your dog’s next meal and you are good to go.
Vegetables My Dog Can’t Have
While there are lots of veggies to boost your pal’s health, not all vegetables are equal when it comes to doggy snacks.
Here are eight vegetables to avoid when sharing a snack with your favorite canine:
1. Avocados
Unlike the health benefits these babies brag for you and me, avocados are no match for your canine friend. Avocados contain persin, a toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea among dogs.
While persin is mostly contained to the skin of an avocado, there are traces of it in the flesh too.
In addition to persin, the pit alone can prove harmful for dogs too.
So if your dog does consume avocado on accident, contact your local vet immediately.
2. Corn
Corn is a common allergen for dogs. So while this veggie may be okay for some dogs, many will respond with allergic reactions.
If you want to try including corn in your pet’s diet, start with a super small amount and watch for signs of an allergic reaction. If nothing appears amiss, slowly increase the amount over time. If allergy symptoms arise, avoid corn immediately.
Never give corn on the cob either, as the cob can cause blockage and other stomach issues.
3. Garlic
Another doggy no-no is garlic. Garlic bulbs are toxic in every form so whether it’s raw, cooked, or powder, never let your dog get into your garlic.
Specifically, garlic can cause direct damage on the red blood cells and cause them to burst.
4. Kale
Kale contains a variety of potentially harmful natural compounds including calcium oxalate and isothiocyanate. As a result, Kale can cause gastric irritation and kidney or bladder stones if consumed.
5. Onions
Never ever ever give your dog onions. They contain thiosulfate and prove toxic no matter how they are consumed. Cooked, raw, in powder form, it’s all the same for your fur pal.
Like garlic, onions damage red blood cells and can cause them to burst.
6. Rhubarb
They’re stemmy and not a great snack for your doggy pal. Maybe grab some asparagus instead?
7. Tomatoes
Can dogs eat tomatoes, you ask? The short answer is no. While the red, juicy, ripened fruit part is generally okay, the green part contains a toxin known as solanine.
To truly prove harmful, a dog would need to consume large amounts of tomatoes. Still, I recommend you avoid this food completely.
8. Wild Mushrooms
Some mushrooms can prove poisonous if eaten or even licked by your dog.
You never know for certain what’s in a wild mushroom, so keep them away from a snacking dog. This way you can enjoy peace of mind while your dog stays healthy too.
FAQ
Q. Can my dog eat fruit?
Yes. However, because dogs digest differently from humans, eating the wrong fruits can prove harmful. Click here to discover foods that are harmless and even healthy for your dog.
Q. Can a single grape kill a dog?
Small yet dangerous is the teeny-tiny grape. Dogs should never consume grapes or raisins. Yet should the unlikely happen and your dog consumes a grape, contact a vet immediately.
Q. How long after eating a grape will a dog get sick?
The first symptom to expect is vomiting which can occur within 24 hours after digestion. During the next 12-24 hours, symptoms may include lack of appetite, diarrhea, and possible lethargy.
In Closing
Now you know:
Those fruits and veggies that are great for your dog, alongside the vegetables and fruits that are doggy no-nos.
You are now in the know and fully equipped to make the best decision for your dog.
From healthy doggy snacks to added side dishes for a normal dog meal, you are ready to go.
If your dog is new to the fruits and vegetables world, start by introducing one fruit or veggie at a time.
Have fun finding out what new fruits and veggies he/she likes best!
Always feed in moderation and enjoy peace of mind as you take control of your dog’s daily diet.
And now it’s your turn.
I’d love to hear from you.
Have you already tried any of the fruits and veggies above? If so, which are your favorites?
Let me know in the comments below.
As always, if you are still looking to bring home your brand-new puppy, meet our newest puppies for sale here.
Until next time!
References:
AKC (2019). Fruits and vegetables dogs can or can’t eat. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/.
Duncan, L. (2019). 40 Fruits and vegetables dogs can eat (and can’t eat). Retrieved from http://doggonereal.com/fruits-and-vegetables-dogs-can-eat-and-cant-eat/.
Elliott, P. (2018). 25 Fruits dogs can and can’t eat [+infographic]. Retrieved from https://petcube.com/blog/dog-fruits/#apricots.
Fruits and Veggies for Pets (n.d.). Trupanion.com. Retrieved from https://trupanion.com/pet-care/fruits-and-veggies-for-pets.
20 Fruits and Veggies (2019). Puppy Leaks. Retrieved from https://www.puppyleaks.com/fruits-veggies-that-make-great-dog-training-treats/.
39 Vegetables and Fruits (2018). Pupford. Retrieved from https://pupford.com/vegetables-fruits-dogs-can-cant-eat/.
Dr. Heather Venkat has been a veterinarian since 2013, working in companion animal medicine with dogs and cats, as well as veterinary public health. Her passion is in prevention, One Health, and strengthening the human-animal bond. A bonafide animal-lover, she competes in dog sports and currently shares her home with a border collie mix named Luna, three cats, and two leopard geckos.
