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What Vegetables Can Dogs Have? 6 Healthy Options

what vegetables can dogs have

Knowing what vegetables can dogs have is important to those who prioritize the health of their pets. From the moment they walk into your life, or whichever way you come into contact with them, the dog will be the absolute epitome of love and devotion. The bond that you form with them will be one of the most precious, and most treasured in your life. In some instances, it could be the only one.

For these, and many more reasons, you may want your angel in pup form to be around you for as long as the universe will let you have them. Of course, you are not going to take chances and throw caution to the wind. You want to look after them as much, and as well, as they look after you, torn up pillows and couch notwithstanding.

You are aware that the key to a long life is excellent health. Excellent health comes from being active and also consuming a diet that’s going to have your dog be the healthiest pup within a 1,000-mile radius.

A healthy diet is a balanced one, and that means introducing vegetables and fruits to the menu.

While dogs are inherently carnivorous, thousands of years of living with humans have seen them adopt many of our habits and traits, including becoming omnivorous. However, it’s not everything that a human will eat that will be beneficial for your dog. Others like onions can cause severe anemia and even death to dogs.

With all the experimentation, as well as scientific studies, is there a definitive list as to what vegetables can dogs have? Yes, there is. Here are a few vegetables that will be beneficial to your pup.

1. Broccoli

Those green vegetables that look like they might be rocking an Afro are some of the best treats you can give to your pup.  Even though dogs can synthesize vitamin C, the broccoli will be a much faster source of the same. They are also high in fiber, which is always good for their digestion.

You should, however, feed them broccoli in moderation. Broccoli, like the other members of the cruciferous group of vegetables, carries small molecules known as isothiocyanates. These molecules can be an irritant to your dog’s digestive system when consumed in large amounts.  

Also, from the carnivorous past of the dogs, their teeth are geared towards dealing with meat. They may gobble up the broccoli, but they may not chew them up effectively. This can cause serious blockage in the digestive tract.

2. Carrots

Well, if you don’t already use carrots as treats for your pup, you definitely should start. Besides, this could be part of your bonding ritual, snacking on carrots.

To those wondering what vegetables can dogs have, carrots are a great source of Vitamin A. This is great at keeping their vision in tip-top shape. They are also a good source of Vitamin K, which is excellent for strengthening bones and helping with clotting of blood.

The crunchy quality of a carrot also makes them some of the best foods to give to your teething dog.

3. Kale

Here is another option for those seeking what vegetables can dog have. A member of the Cruciferous group of super vegetables, kale is a very nutritious vegetable as it is a source of vitamins A and K, it is rich in minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Perhaps the best part about kale is that it is packed with antioxidants. These antioxidants, lutein, and zeaxanthin, are known to help protect the body against cancer.

While this may sound like something you would want to give your dog for every meal, remember to balance it out with protein sources. You can add kale to their chicken or fish. This can be a great way to break the monotony of what they consume.

4. Spinach

This would be great if your dog were named Popeye or Olive, not so much if they are called Bluto. Spinach isn’t just high in the adventures of Popeye; it is an original superfood, one that you and your dog should be happily enjoying more of.

Spinach is excellent for providing your pup with vitamins such as C and E and also for minerals like magnesium and potassium. Perhaps the best claim to fame for spinach is the excellent iron content it provides.

Spinach is excellent for protecting your pup against cardiovascular issues as well as cancer. It is also great at dealing with issues brought about b inflammation.

5. Celery

Now, here is something else you can use to get your pup’s mind off of the orange things it has been chewing quite frequently of late. Celery makes a great snack for both you and your dog. Come summertime, when the temperatures are high, celery is a great way to keep your pup hydrated as it is 95% water.  

Celery is excellent at providing vitamins such as A and K, and also minerals such as potassium and calcium. The myriad of anti-inflammatory properties of celery is ideal for dogs that are experiencing difficulties brought about by inflammation. If your pup is developing arthritis, celery should be a regular feature in their diet.

6. Yams and Sweet Potatoes

The yam and the sweet potato, plants that are native to the Americas and Africa, are two plants that should feature in both yours and your pup’s diet. These plants are chock full of nutrients, some of which they are just the best at providing.

The dense nature of these foods means they are great at providing fiber to your pup. These vegetables are suited for their digestive system, as well as helping prevent constipation.  They are also great at providing minerals such as manganese and copper, among others.

These two foods help in supporting bone growth in the pup, as well as support excellent heart function.

Conclusion

The above vegetables are but a few of the vegetables that dogs can have. A personal favorite for many dog owners is the cucumber, which makes for an excellent substitute for celery during the summer months.

This list is by no means exhaustive, but it’s a start in the right direction to providing your pup with the best nutrition possible.

Here is a video on 15 fruits and vegetables you can feed your dog