Just like humans, even our pets need some health stimulation to live with us as much as possible – and by health stimulation, we refer to good food, regular vet checkups, daily walks, as well as affection.
Before adopting a pet, whether we are talking about cats, dogs, rabbits, or other creatures, it is crucial to do some research in order to know exactly what it means to raise an animal and what maintenance costs they need. If you can’t afford to raise a healthy and happy pet, then don’t adopt one, because they will end up in animal shelters or on the streets and their lives will be destroyed forever.
However, if you are still reading this article, it means that you are concerned about your dog’s health and want to know more essential info. So, let’s find out together what foods can help your dog fight off disease. Read on for more!
Cranberries
Cranberries are a superfood because they are rich in antioxidants and low in calories. According to animal experts, your dog can eat cranberries as well. So, the next time you want to eat some fruit, try to think about your dog and bring some cranberries for them as well.
Cranberries contain a lot of vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin K, which can strengthen your dog’s heart health and support his bone strength. In addition, they are also effective in curing urinary tract infections (UTIs), so if your beloved furry friend pees a lot due to a urinary infection, you can include cranberries in their diet – but in moderation!
Blueberries
Blueberries are another superfood, as they are a good source of fiber, and antioxidants and contain plenty of vitamin C and vitamin K. Animal experts say that you can include some blueberries in your dog’s diet, but in moderation. This fruit helps in preventing colon cancer, heart disease, as well as obesity.
Moreover, people who own a senior dog should know that blueberries are perfect for them at this stage of life, as they can slow down aging and memory loss.
According to experts, the most beneficial way of feeding blueberries to your dog is just the way they are, namely fresh and raw, but use them in moderation.
Celery
Celery is a low-calorie diet food that can also be added to your dog’s diet. They are rich in fiber, calcium, iron, potassium, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin D.
This veggie can boost the immune system of your dog, protect against disease, as well as improve their teeth and breath, eliminating toxins from their body. You can serve raw celery to your dog, but light steam is also good. At just 10 calories a stalk, you can give them one a few times a week.
Bell peppers
Just like tomatoes, bell peppers are also considered fruits, and they are good for both human and dogs’ health. Bell peppers have lots of vitamin C and other antioxidants.
However, did you know that bell peppers have four times more vitamin C than one single orange? But that’s not all! They can help improve the cardiovascular system in dogs and fight off free radicals that can lead to cancer.
You should choose only red and mature bell peppers because they are more nutritious. Then peel off the skin and remove the seeds, and mix them with their regular food.
Carrots
Carrots are highly nutritious veggies recommended for both humans and dogs. They are particularly rich in beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants. In general, carrots promote bone growth and teeth health in dogs. Due to their content of minerals, they can improve eye health as well.
You should serve sliced carrots to your dog because they can be difficult to chew and smaller dogs can choke. Moreover, you can serve them raw or lightly cooked, as well as mixed with other veggies or with rice.
Raw carrots are good for their teeth, but they are more nutritious when cooked.
Broccoli
Well, we have to admit that kids are not usually broccoli fans, but your dog can be. Broccoli is a nutritious veggie that resembles a miniature tree and is full of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
Broccoli is good for improving your dog’s immune system, strengthening their overall health. Animal experts recommend giving raw broccoli to your beloved furry friend because they are more nutritious, but cooked or steamed may be easier to digest.
However, just like any other veggie, make sure to cut them into bite-sized chunks or small slices in order to avoid choking. Take care of your dear dog, feed them well, and they’ll love you!
Bananas
Banana is another healthy fruit that can be added to your dog’s diet as well. They contain numerous essential nutrients and provide benefits for digestion, heart health, and weight loss. They are a great source of fiber, copper, potassium, vitamin B, vitamin C, and manganese.
One of the most important things you have to take into consideration before feeding your dog bananas is that they are high in sugar, so you should serve them in moderation and not on a daily basis! Plus, try to give them a few small pieces of banana, not the whole fruit.
Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is not only good for adults and children but also for your beloved pet. This type of fruit is refreshing and healthy, preventing dehydration. It is recommended especially during the summer.
Cantaloupe is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and beta-carotene. But that’s not all! They contain potassium, fiber, and folic acid. Due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, they can help increase the overall health of your dog.
How to feed it? Remove the skin and the seeds, then cut them into small pieces. Serve it in moderation because it can lead to diarrhea.
Cabbage
Cabbage is another nutritious veggie, but you should serve it in moderation and not too often because it can cause gas and abdominal bloating. Cabbage is loaded with a lot of vitamins and minerals that are essential for improving your dog’s immune system and overall health. Not to mention that some compounds found in this type of veggie have been shown to prevent certain types of cancers.
Just like the other veggies mentioned above, cabbage can be served raw or cooked to match on your dog’s digestive system. In general, raw veggies are not so easy to digest.
MCT Oil
MCT oil is a supplement that has become popular among athletes and bodybuilders, but animal experts say that it is also good for dogs. Contains mainly coconut oil, which is good for dogs.
It has been proven that MCTs are more easily digested than longer-chain fatty acids found in many other foods. It can boost your dog’s immune system, help with weight management, disinfect wounds, and prevent skin diseases. MCTs are usually tasty, so you can either add them to your dog’s food bowl or serve them right from the spoon.
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