What are the best vegetables for dogs?
Vegetables for dogs? Dogs only eat meat! The common misconception that keeps nipping at our heels... We're big fans of busting this common myth which is why we not only use insect-based protein in our dog food, but we also love adding nutrient-rich veg in there too.
Certain vegetables can be super beneficial for dogs and here's our low-down on the best vegetables for dogs and why…
What are the benefits of feeding vegetables to dogs?
Dogs don't need vegetables added to their meals if they're fed a nutritionally complete diet – however they can be a great addition if you have a greedy dog on a low-fat diet or if they just fancy something different to chew on then carrots are our friends.
What vegetables can I feed my dog?
Our top 10 best vegetables for your dog are:
Peas
Peas are usually super tasty to dogs and make a perfect treat or food topper. They are a good source of protein which you know we are passionate about here at Grub Club and because of this, they are one of the key ingredients in our Sit Roll Treat Repeat dog treats. They also contain fibre and vitamins A, B, C, and K.
Carrots
Carrots are a popular veggie choice for dogs and what’s not to love?! They are tasty, sweet, chewy and packed full of potassium, fibre and vitamin A. You can feed them raw as an occasional treat which can also aid dental health/hygiene or you can cook them up as a yummy food topper.
Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-rich super veg and this is precisely why we have included them in our All Day Buffet Dog Food. We particularly love them because they are high in fibre which is ideal for any pooch who may have a delicate stomach plus they are high in vitamin A which helps to promote healthy skin and hair. Dogs can eat these baked or roasted.
Celery
Another good veg to chew on, celery is great as a treat and will aid in keeping their teeth healthy and clean. It is also very low in fat.
Broccoli
Broccoli isn’t just good for you, it can also be good for your dog… In moderation. Too much can cause tummy irritations and we definitely don’t like those over here at Grub Club! This green veggie is rich in vitamin K which is great for keeping bones healthy and strong. It can be fed raw or cooked.
Cucumber
A cucumber treat is a healthy and safe way of helping to hydrate your dog in warmer weather plus it can help to combat stinky breath – it’s a win-win!
Cauliflower
If your dog has gut issues a little cauliflower, which is high in fibre, could really help to balance everything out. You can even get fancy with this one and provide it to them raw, cooked, steamed, roasted or even riced.
Brussel Sprouts
It may not be your favourite but it could be your dogs and if so, you will be providing them with plenty of antioxidants and vitamins as well as fibre. Serve up cooked (not raw) but don’t give too many because just like for us, sprouts can have an unwanted side effect!
Beetroot
Beetroots are loaded with vitamins and minerals which include vitamin C, potassium, folate, and magnesium. You can feed these raw or cooked just be mindful that you cut them up into manageable bite-sized pieces.
Green Beans
Green beans are a yummy veg for a dog as they are very similar to a pea flavouring. These mighty veg are packed full of iron, protein, calcium and vitamins B6, A, C and K.
Should I feed my dog vegetables with their kibble?
If you already feed your dog a nutritionally complete dog food then there really isn’t any need to add vegetables to their meal unless:
- Your vet has suggested doing so (they are deficient in particular vitamins)
- Your dog needs to reduce their calorie intake, in that case, you can remove some kibble and replace it with a vegetable such as the green bean
- They seem to be very hungry and you don’t want to overfeed. Some of the above vegetables could help them to feel fuller after a meal without the risk of adding weight
What vegetables should I never feed my dogs?
It is well-known that particular foods are toxic to dogs – chocolate, raisins, grapes for example – but what about vegetables? Yep, even some of these can be lethal so please steer clear of:
- Onions
- Leeks
- Mushrooms
- Raw potatoes
- Kale
- Garlic
Vegetables can be beneficial in many ways in helping to keep your dog in tip-top condition. If you’d like to find out more about what is in our Grub Club food you can check out further information here.