Vegetables Safe for Dogs

Although dogs are known as carnivores, like most species, they also will benefit from a well-rounded diet. This not only includes meats, but also carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables. When feeding dogs vegetables, however, it is important to not only know which are most nutritional for them, but also which are the safest. Not every type is beneficial or safe for dogs.

  1. Preparation of Vegetables

    • Before determing the type of vegetables dogs can eat, first consider whether or not a dog should eat vegetables. If so, how they should be prepared? Can dogs eat them raw, cooked or prepared either way? According to Dog Food Corner, dogs cannot easily digest raw vegetables. It suggests cooking or pureeing them in order for the dogs to effortlessly chew and process vegetables.

    Unsafe Vegetables

    • Other vegetables are unsafe for consumption. Onions are not recommended for canine consumption under any circumstance. According to Dr. Wendy Wallner, DVM, garlic is acceptable in moderation to help prevent fleas and gas and as a natural antibiotic. However, at higher levels it can become toxic. Both contain thiosulphate, a component that can cause anemia, with onions having an even higher quantity of this substance.

    Benefits of Vegetables

    • There are nutritional benefits for dogs when vegetables are added to their diet. Like humans, an excessive quantity of carbohydrates and fats, for example, can affect their health in the long run in terms of weight gain and lack of certain vitamins. Vegetables add fiber to the diet as well as essential vitamins and minerals for optimal health. They also contain a low caloric content, which mimics the importance of vegetables in the human diet.

    BARF Diet Benefits

    • Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (known as the BARF Diet) has suggestions and guidelines for foods appropriate and healthy for dogs and cats. The philosophy aims for optimal nutrition, as is the trend with the human species. Meat is important in a dog̵7;s diet, but vegetable matter offers fiber for a healthy digestive tract, anti-aging benefits, excellent cancer fighting agents and essential fatty acids, all of which dogs cannot always reap from other foods.

    Beneficial Vegetables

    • There are a few types of vegetables beneficial for rounding out a dog̵7;s diet. White and sweet potatoes are excellent choices, both providing sources of carbohydrates and vitamins. Carrots benefit a dog̵7;s eyesight. Spinach is rich in vitamins and iron. Alfalfa aids digestion. Cayenne pepper is known to enhance a dog̵7;s circulatory system. Celery quells nervousness. And the following vegetables are known to be tumor and cancer fighters, some noted in laboratory studies: broccoli, celery, carrots and cayenne pepper.

    Vegetables in Dog Food Brands

    • If fresh vegetables are not readily available, what bagged dog foods have vegetable health benefits? There are some brands that offer vegetables in their foods, but it is important to choose wisely. Orijen is one choice, which also adds grasses that dogs would ingest in their natural habitats. Wellness is known for their vegetables in both dried and canned varieties, except for corn, often used as a filler. Pedigree offers a dry variety with vegetables and Iams is a canned product.