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5 Superfoods That Are Safe For Dogs
- 11/06/2019
If you’re a health-conscious human, you probably go out of your way to fill your diet with superfoods (a.k.a. foods that are loaded with nutrients and/or antioxidants). Your health is a top priority, but the health of your four-legged best friend is just as important.
You know that supplementing your dog’s diet with the right foods can help Fido maintain optimal health. But which superfoods are safe for dogs to eat?
1. Carrots
Carrots make an excellent dog snack. They’re crunchy, they’re slightly sweet, and just fun for dogs to eat. They’re also rich in important nutrients, like fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, B vitamins, potassium, carotenoids, and vitamins C and K.
All of these nutrients are needed for energy production, and the crunchy texture of carrots will help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.
Raw carrots are best, but if you serve them cooked, make sure they’re plain (no oils, spices or sauces).
2. Pumpkin
When dogs have digestive trouble, like diarrhea, pumpkin can help. Because it’s rich in fiber, pumpkin can firm up the stool. It also contains important vitamins and minerals, including potassium, iron and vitamins A, E and C.
Pumpkin contains soluble fiber that adds bulk to the stool by absorbing water. Fiber fermentation also creates fatty acids that energize cells, and lower the pH level in the large intestines.
A can of plain pumpkin makes a great addition to any dog first-aid kit, but it’s important to bring Fido to the vet to determine the cause of diarrhea.
3. Fish
Oily fish, like sardines, salmon, mackerel, anchovies and herring, are loaded with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are great for your dog’s skin, coat and brain. They're also anti-inflammatory, so they can help with arthritic pain in older dogs and other chronic canine conditions.
Along with Omega-3s, fatty fish are a great source of protein.
4. Blueberries
When we talk about human superfoods, blueberries often top the list. That’s because this humble berry is rich in antioxidants and loaded with vitamins and minerals. They're healthy for dogs, too.
And most pups love blueberries because they’re naturally sweet.
Blueberries are low in calories and high in: fiber, vitamin C and phytochemicals. They’re also rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals that cause cellular and molecular damage.
Some studies have also shown that adding antioxidants to a dog’s diet can reduce the effects of brain aging.
5. Brussels Sprouts
Most people either love or hate Brussels sprouts, but this cruciferous vegetable is just as healthy for dogs as it is humans.
In addition to vitamins A, C, B6 and B1, this vegetable is rich in vitamin K, which helps the blood clot properly, protects the heart, and helps build bones. Antioxidants reduce inflammation while improving blood circulation.
Brussels sprouts are best served steamed, boiled or microwaved. Don’t serve them raw – they're too difficult to digest.
There’s just one downside to feeding your dog this vegetable: it can cause some serious gas. The gas isn’t harmful to your dog, but it may be harmful to your nose.
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