Introduction
If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably noticed that every time there’s a rustle of a packet or the sound of a tin opening, your canine companion’s ears prick up and their beady eyes are soon fixed on your every move. It’s great to be able to treat your dog from time to time but it’s crucial to ensure that you feed your dog the right foods. Many human foods are not suitable for pets, including some fruit and vegetables.
Can dogs eat strawberries?
Strawberries are a summer staple in Ireland. When it’s warm and sunny outside, many of us love to add strawberries to desserts or eat them whole. The good news for our furry friends is that dogs can eat strawberries. They are rich in vitamin C and they are also a good source of protein, potassium and antioxidants. Another brilliant benefit of giving your dogs strawberries as a treat is that they contain an enzyme, which acts as a natural tooth cleaner.
It is important to remember that strawberries contain natural sugars so it’s best to moderate your dog’s intake.
Can dogs eat apples?
Apples are one of the most popular fruit bowl ingredients. They are an excellent snack for both humans and dogs. Rich in fibre and vitamins A and C, they are also low in fat. If you are feeding your dog some apple, remove the core and seeds first. On hot days, you can freeze apples to rustle up a tasty, cooling treat.
Can dogs eat blackberries?
Dogs can eat most berries, but it is essential to limit their intake of certain types, including raspberries and blackberries. This is because they contain xylitol, a naturally-occurring sweetener, which can be toxic to dogs when consumed in large quantities. If you are keen to share a blackberry or two with your pooch, buy berries from the supermarket and wash them first. It’s wise to avoid wild berries of all kinds.
Can dogs eat tomatoes?
Many of us love to add tomatoes to salads and pasta dishes at this time of year. If you’ve been joined at the dinner table by your dog, avoid feeding them tomatoes. The ripe flesh of the fruit is fine, but the green part of tomatoes contains solanine, which is toxic for dogs.
Can dogs eat cheese?
Dogs can eat cheese but it’s worth noting that consuming large amounts can cause nausea and vomiting. You can give your dog a small chunk of cheese as a nutritious treat if you are training them or they’ve been good on a walk but avoid giving them too much or leaving a large block of cheese unattended in the kitchen. Cheese is a good source of protein, B vitamins and calcium but it does have high fat content.
Can dogs eat oranges?
Oranges are packed full of vitamins and nutrients and they are safe for dogs. Some pups may not be keen on the powerful citrus smell but if your dog does take an interest, peel the orange and remove the seeds before giving them a small piece of the fleshy fruit to try. It’s best to stick to small portions to avoid tummy upset.
Conclusion
Dogs can eat strawberries and many other types of fruit and vegetables. Often, the natural foods we eat can be beneficial for dogs, but this is not always the case. Check with your vet if you have any questions and seek expert advice immediately if your dog has reacted to a certain food.
If you would like to discuss your dog’s diet with one of our experts, please get in touch here.
