What raw fruits and vegetables are good for dogs

As you might have discovered if you read the article on whether or not it is safe to feed your dog a vegan diet, the way dogs evolved alongside humans means that they are actually considered omnivores, meaning that they can digest and absorb some nutrients from fruits and vegetables.

While a 100% vegan diet isn't ideal for dogs, the inclusion of some fruits and vegetables in their diet can be beneficial for their health. If you've often wondered which fruits and vegetables are safe to give to your dog look no further! We've grouped some of the more popular fruits and vegetables into three categories to make it easy for you to see exactly which fruits and vegetables are safe to give to your dog.

Fruits and Vegetables That Are Safe To Give To Your Dog Often

• Apples - after removing the core and seeds, apples make a great snack, especially for senior dogs, given that they are high in vitamins A and C, fibre, and are low in protein and fat.
• Blueberries - Packed with antioxidants and fibre, blueberries are a great alternative to use when teaching your dog to catch treats.
• Carrots - Carrots make a great snack for dogs as they help to keep your dog's teeth clean while also being full of fibre and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A.
• Celery - Ideal as a snack to help keep your dog's breath fresh, celery also contains vitamins A, B and C, and helps promote a healthy heart.
• Cucumbers - Low in fats, oils and carbohydrates but packed with vitamins, cucumbers make a great snack for dogs, especially those dogs that need to watch their weight.
• Green beans - Plain beans of all kinds are safe for dogs. If buying canned beans, look for the low or no salt options. Beans can be given to your dog raw, chopped or steamed and are full of fibre and vitamins.
• Oranges - The strong smell of oranges might not appeal to your dog, but if they seem interested, they are a safe treat to give. Just be sure to remove the peel and seeds first. 
• Pears - Skip the canned pears in sugary syrups in favour of fresh pears cut into bite-sized chunks, minus the pit and seeds. Pears make a great snack as they are loaded with fibre and vitamins.
• Pineapple - Before feeding your dog pineapple, be sure to remove the outside peel and spiky crown. Bromelains, the enzymes in pineapple that can make your mouth feel tingly or burn, help to break down proteins making them easier for your dog to absorb. 
• Watermelon - Watermelon is 92% water making it the perfect treat to help keep your dog hydrated on those hot summer days. Be sure to remove the rind and seeds first and why not try making our frozen watermelon pup-sicles.

Fruits and Vegetables That Are Safe To Give To Your Dog Sometimes

• Bananas - While high in vitamins such as potassium and copper, bananas should be given to your dog in moderation because they are high in sugar.
• Broccoli - Just stick to the florets if you want to feed your dog broccoli, but keep it to a minimum as it can cause gastric irritation in some dogs.
• Brussels sprouts - Brussels sprouts are fine to give to your dog every now and then, but beware of the gas that often comes with them!
• Cabbage - Safe to feed your dog in small doses, cabbage can also cause some gassy problems in pooches!
• Rockmelon - Also high in sugar, rockmelon is safe for dogs and a good source of water and fibre, but should be fed to dogs in moderation, especially dogs that are overweight or have diabetes.
• Cranberries - Both fresh and dried cranberries are safe to give to your dog, if they like the tart flavour that is! Too many cranberries can cause an upset stomach so it is best to keep them to a minimum.
• Mango - Another fruit that is high in sugar is mangoes. If you do want to share this summer fruit with your dog, be sure to remove to hard pit first and feed in moderation.
• Peaches - Fresh or frozen peaches are preferable to canned which contain sugary syrups. If giving fresh peaches, be sure to completely cut around the pit before sharing.
• Raspberries - You should limit your dog to less than one cup of raspberries at a time as they do contain a small amount of xylitol. Raspberries are a good snack for senior dogs because they have anti-inflammatory properties which can help with sore joints.
• Strawberries - Strawberries are full of fibre and vitamin C, but you should give them to your dog in moderation because of their high sugar content.
• Peas - All types of peas are safe to feed your dog and they contain high levels of fibre and added protein. Fresh or frozen peas are preferred over canned which often contain added sodium.

Fruits and Vegetables That Are NOT Safe To Give To Your Dog

• Asparagus - While asparagus isn't toxic to dogs, it isn't suitable to be given to them raw as it is too tough for them to eat, and by the time you cook it so it is soft enough, it loses all of it's nutrients.
• Avocado - While you might enjoy the occasional avo on toast, you shouldn't be sharing with your dog. Avocados contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs.
• Cherries - Never give your dog cherries as the plant contains cyanide which is toxic to dogs. Signs of cyanide poisoning include red gums, difficulty breathing and dilated pupils.
• Chives - Never ever give your dog anything with chives in it as they are from the same family as onions and leeks and can cause severe gastric upset in dogs.
• Grapes - Fresh and dried grapes (raisins) are extremely toxic to dogs and can lead to acute sudden kidney failure.
• Tomatoes - You should skip tomatoes when considering fruits to feed to your dog because while the ripe part of the fruit is generally safe, the green, unripe parts contain a toxic substance called solanine.
• Leeks - Leeks are from the same family of plants as chives and onions and are super toxic to dogs. 
• Mushrooms - While some mushroom species are safe for dogs, it is best to avoid them altogether. Certain species are so toxic that they can cause permanent damage or even death.
• Onions - Onions are incredibly toxic to dogs and if ingested can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and can even cause your dog's red blood cells to burst.
• Rhubarb - While the stems of the rhubarb plant are edible, the leaves are highly toxic to dogs, so it is best to avoid the plant altogether.
• Spinach - Too much spinach can lead to kidney damage in your dog, so it is best to avoid it altogether.

Most of us are guilty of slipping our furry friends some people food now and then. And if your dog could stand to lose a few pounds or you just want to keep him healthy and spry, you may have even considered supplementing his diet with a little fruit or vegetables. Here’s the good news: There are plenty of human foods dogs can eat. And now for the bad news: There are also plenty of human foods that dogs can’t eat—and definitely shouldn’t. But just because it grows on a tree, bush, or vine doesn’t mean it’s good for your dog. So before you give in to those sweet puppy-dog eyes when your furry friend is begging for a taste of your meal, make sure you’re aware of what fruits and vegetables dogs can eat.

We asked veterinarians to share their expertise on which foods are safe for dogs and which could have adverse—and even deadly—side effects. For example, can dogs eat bananas? What about blueberries and grapes? We have the answers that will help you avoid an emergency and could also shed some light as to why your dog isn’t eating. (Hint: Something else could have made him lose his appetite!)

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The fruits dogs can eat

A little fruit here and there is a sweet treat for your pup, and some fruits are actually beneficial to your dog’s diet. But moderation is the key because most fruits are high in sugar, says Shawna Garner, DVM, U.S. lead veterinarian at FirstVet, an on-demand video consultation platform. “The best way to make sure that dogs get the nutrition they need is to feed them a nutritionally complete, commercial pet food as the basis of their diet,” says Dr. Garner. “Any other food should be given as a small treat or topping to their meals. Roughly a tablespoon of fruit or vegetables per day should be enough for a medium-sized dog.”

That said, some caveats prevail. “Avoid giving fruits, with their high natural sugar content, to a diabetic dog,” says Lisa Weeth, DVM, head of the nutrition department at Metropolitan Animal Specialty Hospital. “These foods can interfere with their blood sugar regulation.”

As long as your dog doesn’t have a specific medical issue or food allergy, these are some of the fruits dogs can eat:

Apples: Apples of all varieties make good treats for dogs, Dr. Garner says, because they’re an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and calcium. “Make sure to cut them up and remove the core before serving,” she adds, “as apple seeds can cause dogs to have an upset stomach when eaten in large quantities.”

Bananas: Potassium-rich bananas are a safe treat for dogs, but they should be doled out in small portions due to their high sugar content. “They may cause your dog to gain weight if they eat too much,” notes Dr. Garner.

Blueberries: According to Dr. Garner, this antioxidant- and fiber-rich snack can help keep dogs in good shape. Blueberries are also among the possible cancer-fighting foods for dogs.

Cranberries: It turns out that cranberries have some of the same benefits for dogs as they do for humans. “Cranberry supplements are thought to reduce the adhesion of bacteria in the urogenital tract and possibly prevent urinary tract infections,” says Stacy Choczynski Johnson, DVM, the vet expert at Pumpkin Pet Insurance. While some dogs may not like the sour taste, tossing your pup a couple of fresh or dried cranberries is fine from a safety perspective.

Your dog can also say “bone appétit” (see what we did there?) to small amounts of strawberries, watermelon, pears, and pineapple. Dr. Weeth adds that frozen fruit juice cubes or apple sauce cups can be fun summertime treats for your pup, as long as they’re doled out in limited servings. Interested in making your own snacks for your dog? Check out these homemade dog treats your pet will love.

Most vegetables make a good treat for your pet, says Jamie Richardson, DVM, medical chief of staff at Small Door Veterinary in New York City. But if you’re giving table scraps, make sure the vegetables don’t include much in the way of butter, salt, or other seasonings, she says. And just like fruit, when it comes to vegetables, a little bit goes a long way in your dog’s diet, so there’s no need to overdo it. One important note: With any raw or crunchy vegetables, be sure to cut them up into small, bite-sized pieces to avoid the risk of choking.

Here are some vegetables dogs can eat in small portions:

Broccoli: Raw or steamed, bite-sized pieces of broccoli are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as beta-carotene, folate, and dietary fiber.

Carrots: Both raw or cooked carrots get a thumbs-up from vets. “Their natural sweetness makes them appealing to canines,” says Dr. Garner. “Plus, they contain high amounts of vitamin A, which helps to boost their immune system and keeps their skin and coat healthy.” Here’s another bonus: Unlike many other vegetables, carrots don’t tend to give dogs gas!

Cauliflower: Like broccoli, cruciferous cauliflower is full of vitamins and minerals, and it may help the aches and pains of older pets with arthritis. Speaking of cauliflower, it also made this list of the trending superfood veggies that could be the next kale (for humans, that is), so you may want to stock up!

Green beans: “With ample amounts of plant fiber, manganese, and vitamins C and K, plain green beans are great for dogs,” says Gary Richter, DVM, a veterinary health expert with Rover.com. Dr. Garner seconds that, noting that dogs can eat green beans cooked or raw. When frozen, she adds, they make a great treat on a warm summer day.

Pumpkin: Pumpkin’s high fiber content can be beneficial for dogs that have diarrhea or constipation, says Dr. Garner. “However,” she adds, “pumpkin should only be served to dogs cooked, without added spices or flavors, to avoid upsetting a dog’s stomach.”

Spinach: If your dog will eat it, spinach is a great source of vitamin K, magnesium, folate, manganese, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc, says Oscar E. Chavez, BVetMed, Chief Medical Officer at Just Food for Dogs.

Sweet potatoes: Another great source of dietary fiber, sweet potatoes are high in vitamin B6, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. Sweet potatoes should be peeled and cooked—or you can pick up some dehydrated sweet potato dog chews. In case you were wondering, these are the best dog food brands that veterinarians feed their own pets.

Zucchini: “An excellent source of vitamin C, zucchini is also rich in beta-carotene and is a source of vitamin A, dietary fiber, potassium, folate, and niacin,” says Dr. Chavez.

What other veggies can dogs chow down on in moderation? Cucumbers, celery, peas, and Brussels sprouts.

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The fruits dogs can’t eat

The fruits and vegetables that dogs can eat won’t do any harm and may even help their health. But the list of fruits and vegetables that dogs can’t eat is actually kind of scary—some of the items can make them quite ill and, if unaddressed, could even be deadly. Some are bite-sized, sweet fruits that you and your dog might view as treats, so be aware before you toss one to your faithful companion. The list of fruits to avoid includes:

Avocados: Yes, they’re a fruit, and no, your dog shouldn’t eat them. Avocados contain persin, a toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. “It’s particularly concentrated in the skin of the avocado, although any part of the fruit is unsafe for dogs to eat,” says Dr. Garner. Avocados are also very high in fat, notes Dr. Richter, so in addition to their toxic capabilities, they can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large amounts. In general, you should be on the lookout for these signs of dog illness in your seemingly healthy pet.

Cherries: The pit and skin of cherries contain small amounts of cyanide, says Dr. Garner. So if your dog gets ahold of a whole bowl of cherries, he can be poisoned. “If a dog eats a whole cherry, this may cause an upset stomach,” says Dr. Garner. “However, several cherries could lead to breathing difficulties and an unwanted emergency visit to the vet.”

Citrus: A section of orange or tangerine may be safe to feed your dog, but watch out for the rest of the fruit. “Other parts of the plant, including the leaves, stem, skin, and leaves are toxic,” says Dr. Garner. “If consumed, they can cause an upset stomach, and vomiting and diarrhea if consumed in large amounts.”

Dried fruit: With the exception of a couple of dried cranberries (see above), dried fruit is generally a no-no for dogs. While none has the toxicity of raisins, dried fruit is high in sugar, which makes it an unhealthy snack. “You’re better off choosing fresh fruit alternatives,” Dr. Garner says, “as long as they are safe for dogs to eat.”

Grapes and raisins: Dr. Richter says that grapes and raisins can cause kidney toxicity in some dogs. “The effect is not dose-dependent,” he adds, “so even a single grape or raisin can potentially be fatal.” While fatalities are rare, if you know your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, take him to the vet ASAP. Here’s how to tell if your dog has food poisoning.

Macadamia nuts: Nuts are generally not a good snack for dogs due to their high-fat content; plus, packaged nuts are often packed with salt. But macadamia nuts are particularly problematic because they can cause weakness, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. While these symptoms will usually resolve on their own, Dr. Garner says it’s still a good idea to call your veterinarian if your dog gets ahold of these nuts.

Tomatoes: Yep, they’re also a fruit! And like other fruits and vegetables in the nightshade family, tomatoes contain solanine, which, when ingested in large amounts, can cause GI distress and arrhythmia in dogs. The good news is that ripe tomatoes contain far less solanine than green ones, so a piece of ripe tomato is probably OK for your dog. But absolutely keep him away from green tomatoes and tomato leaves and stems, where solanine is concentrated.

Make sure you also check out these healthy dog treats to help your pup live a longer, happier life.

The vegetables dogs can’t eat

When it comes to most vegetables, the biggest risk to your dog (and you) is that he’ll get an upset tummy, be gassy, or have diarrhea after ingesting them. But a few vegetables are especially toxic to dogs, though in most cases, they’d have to ingest them in large amounts to do any real damage. These include:

Onions: Foods from the onion family—including onions, garlic, leeks, and chives—should be avoided because they contain a toxin called N-propyl disulfide. “This can cause serious damage to canine red blood cells, meaning that the dog’s body will struggle to distribute oxygen properly,” says Dr. Garner. “It is never safe to give a dog onion or any other foods from the onion family.”

Dr. Richter concurs. “Onion toxicity is rare because most dogs wouldn’t eat enough onions to be a problem,” he says. “But theoretically, if someone had a large plate of cooked onions that got eaten by the dog, it could be a problem.” You should be on particularly high alert during holidays. For example, think of all the Thanksgiving foods that incorporate cooked onions and could pose a danger to your pet.

And Dr. Weeth adds a special note of caution: “A 50-pound dog sneaking a few licks of a sauce that includes garlic and onion are unlikely to cause any issues, but adding garlic to their diet as an additive or in a supplement over days to weeks can cause nausea or vomiting and result in anemia. If the anemia becomes severe enough and chronic enough, it can cause lethargy, weakness, pale gums, and collapse. There are many in the blogosphere who still tout unproven health ‘benefits’ for garlic while ignoring the very real negative health risks of this food. I would not recommend intentionally feeding anything in the garlic or onion family to dogs.”

Mushrooms: If you and your dog take a walk through the woods, or anywhere wild mushrooms might pop up, make sure he doesn’t chomp on one while he has his nose to the ground. “Store-bought shouldn’t be hazardous,” says Dr. Garner, “but it’s best to avoid mushrooms altogether when it comes to a dog’s diet.” Here are more shockingly common dog dangers in your own backyard.

Sources:

• Shawna Garner, DVM, U.S. lead veterinarian at FirstVet
• Lisa Weeth, DVM, head of the nutrition department at Metropolitan Animal Specialty Hospital
• Stacy Choczynski Johnson, the vet expert at Pumpkin Pet Insurance
• Jamie Richardson, DVM, medical chief of staff at Small Door Veterinary
• Gary Richter, DVM, a veterinary health expert with Rover
• Oscar E. Chavez, BVetMed, Chief Medical Officer at Just Food for Dogs

Originally Published: July 23, 2021