Humans love fruit and we know that many don’t just taste good, but they’re good for us.
Did you know that there are many fruits that aren’t harmful foods for dogs? That’s right! You can actually treat your dog to some human foods, in monitored moderation of course. They can enjoy many of the same benefits that they provide for us like aiding in digestion, providing antioxidants, boosting their immunity, giving them better and healthier skin, and increasing their eyesight. That’s pretty amazing. We agree! Read on to learn more of the fruits that aren’t harmful foods for your beloved pets.
Apples (without the core or seeds)
They are an excellent source for fiber, potassium, phytonutrients, flavonoids, and vitamin C. Their treat serving should be roughly the size of half an apple. We want to reiterate that apples are healthy and aren’t harmful foods, sans the seeds and the core.
Bananas
Just like with humans, they provide tons of potassium and carbohydrates. Approximately 1 inch is a good size treat.
Cranberries
Just as in humans, cranberries aid in the fight against urinary tract infections and balances the acid base in your pup’s body. You can add 2 tablespoons of stewed cranberries to her food.
Kiwi
Half a slice or one slice of kiwi can be served and will provide a source of fiber, potassium, and a high amount of vitamin C.
Oranges (remove the rinds and all seeds)
Okay, these are power packed nutrients for your dog and far from harmful foods that you can’t feed him. They are an excellent source for fiber, potassium, calcium, folic acid, iron, flavonoids, phytonutrients, vitamins A, C, B1, and B6. Treat your sweet pup to half of a segment. Anything more than that can cause an upset stomach (click here for remedies for upset stomachs).
Blackberries
Serving as a high source of antioxidants, fiber, omega-3, and more, 2 or 3 blackberries are sufficient.
Blueberries
In addition to antioxidants, they contain selenium, zinc, and iron and are high in vitamins A, B complex, C, and E. The same as blackberries, blueberries can be served as 2 or 3 as a treat.
Raspberries
They are a source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, potassium, manganese, copper, iron, and magnesium. They are also very rich in vitamins C, K, and B-complex. Serve your dog 2 or 3 raspberries as a treat.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupes are rich in fiber and excellent sources for vitamins A, B complex, C, beta-carotene, potassium, magnesium, thiamine, niacin, pantothenic acid and folic acid. Phew…with all of those powerful ingredients, there’s no wonder these aren’t harmful foods! Give your pup about an inch of a cantaloupe wedge for a treat.
Pears
One or two pear cubes will serve your pup copper, fiber, folic acid, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, pectin, and vitamins A, C, E, B1 and B2.
Pumpkins
Although you can feed your dog pumpkin seeds, it is highly recommended that they are unsalted, roasted, and then grounded. With respect to the actual pumpkin, 1 to 3 tablespoons of pureed pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix) is a good size treat. Under no circumstances should you feed your dog any other part of the pumpkin. The small, sharp hairs on the pumpkin stem and leaves are harmful foods for them.
Strawberries
Strawberries are a strong source for magnesium, folic acid, fiber, potassium, iodine, omega-3 fats, and vitamins C, K, B1, and B6. A half or 1 strawberry is a good size treat.
Watermelons
Do not feed your dog the seeds or rind of a watermelon. About 1 to 3 pieces of 1-inch watermelon wedges are enough to provide a great source of vitamins C and A, potassium, magnesium, and of course water!