Best Vegetables to Add to Dog Food

Dog foods are designed to provide health benefits to canines and of course, a full stomach. You need to remember that dogs are born as natural carnivores, and they do not have the same fondness for vegetables as humans do. However, vegetables are vital to the well-being of your friendly animal. They are abundant with phytonutrients that are excellent sources of antioxidants that helps fight disease, as well as improve brain and eye function. And since dogs are not keen to eating vegetables, what you can do is mix vegetables to your furry friend’s regular food. Cut the vegetables into little pieces so your dog’s diet will not be disrupted. 

Vegetables are great for you canine companion, but not all veggies are good for the dogs. Consult with your dog’s vet regarding dog diet to ensure that you are keeping your dog healthy and not sick. The following 15 nutritious vegetables are the best veggies for your treasured pooch.

Broccoli

Broccoli is rich in vitamin C and fiber, and this vegetable comprises of a chemical called isothiocyanates. This chemical is reported to result in an upset stomach in some dogs, and so it is better to mix only a small amount to the dog food. Broccoli helps boost the immune system, fight arthritic inflammation, and help prevent cancer. When your dog chews on broccoli, the stalk develops into an organic, plaque-fighting toothbrush.

Asparagus

Asparagus is a great addition to your dog’s food, because this vegetable can add extra flavor, minerals, and vitamins to your dog’s meal. Just make sure to cut this vegetable into tiny little pieces to avoid choking hazard for your pooch. The new texture and flavor can reintroduce your dog’s interest in its typical food.

Sugar Snap Peas

Sugar Snap Peas are rich in nutrients, and they are a good source of phosphorus, protein, fiber, manganese, zinc, folate, potassium, and vitamins C & K. This type of vegetable is pretty easy to add to your dog food. They just need washing and they’re ready to be eaten.

Green Beans

Green beans are the best source of vitamins A, C, & K, manganese, and fiber. They are often used as training treats, and dogs often mistake this vegetable for Sugar Snap Peas, which is a good thing because dogs like the latter better. Green beans are low in calories, and high in fiber, which can be great for digestion and bowel regulation. This vegetable is also good for the heart since it is a source of omega-3s.

Carrots

Carrots are rich in fiber, great source for vitamin A and carotene, and low on calories. They have a crunchiness that is perfect for cleaning the teeth of your dog. Carrots can also ease your dog’s anxiety, it can promote improvement in the immune system, and is good for the eyesight. But you need to remember that carrots are abundant with carbohydrates, so don’t add too much carrots in your dog’s food.

Mushrooms

Button mushrooms are safe for dogs, but there are also mushrooms that can be toxic to your dog. Make sure that you consult your dog’s vet to make sure that you exactly what kind of mushrooms are healthy. Button mushrooms aids in the good stimulation of your pet’s immune system and help taking care of your dog’s allergies.

Kale

Kale is a superfood for humans and dogs. It has multiple benefits such as alleviating arthritis pain, battle heart disease, aid in the treatment of urinary tract problems, and helps remedy allergies. Too much kale can result in gas and bloating, so add only an ounce of chopped, steamed, or dried kale to the meal of your dog in order to improve the health value.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is recognized as a super fruit that comes with many health benefits. It is low in calories, and pumpkin is high in beta carotene, vitamins A & C, fiber, zinc, magnesium, and calcium. Pumpkin is high in fiber, which aids in the regulation of your dog’s bowel and can remedy diarrhea and constipation. Dogs love pureed pumpkin as well as canned pumpkin.

Celery

Celery is an amazing source of vitamins A, B, and C, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, and calcium. This vegetable is super easy to mix into your dog’s food. You just need to wash and chop and mix with dog food.

Parsley

Parsley is the perfect solution for eliminating dog breath. This vegetable is a natural breath freshener that also has potassium for your dog’s joint and muscle health, as well as beta carotene for clearer eyesight. A small sprinkle of thinly sliced parsley to your preferred the dog food.

Zucchini

Zucchinis have low calories, and they are abundant with vitamins B & C. This vegetable is rich in dietary fiber, and help keeps your dog lean and healthy. Shred this vegetable and add them to your dog’s food.

Sweet potato

Sweet potatoes are high in fiber, potassium, and manganese, and they are great sources of vitamins A, B5, B6, and C. This vegetable is perfect as dog treats, in forms of cubes or chips. You can also cook sweet potatoes and mash them or pureed. Your dog’s immune system is improved by this vegetable, and it is rich in fiber and minerals.

Cucumber

Cucumber is a healthy vegetable that is low in calories. It is a great source of vitamin K and is perfect as training treats. Don’t forget to remove the seeds before you chop cucumber to pieces and mix with your prepared dog food.

Brussell Sprouts

Brussell Sprouts are good for dogs, and they’re high in nutrients and dietary fiber. Just take note to mix only small amounts of this vegetable to your dog’s food because they can cause gas in your dog.

Spinach

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, antioxidants, and iron. Dogs don’t usually like spinach, so make sure to cut this vegetable into very small pieces and mix them with dog food.