This entry was posted on 2018-02-27 by Pet Heaven Store.

We all know that eating fruit is good for us, it is high in natural vitamins and minerals that assist our body to perform at its best. But is the same true for dogs?

You might be surprised to learn that certain types of fruit are actually healthy for dogs. Of course, there are some fruits that should be avoided at all costs, but fruit can be a beneficial supplement to your doggie’s diet.

Here at Pet Heaven we have an interest in ensuring your pup is happy and healthy, therefore we have compiled a list of suitable, nourishing fruits that can benefit your doggie by improving their digestive system function, freshening their breath and boosting their immune health.

Watermelon

Perfect for those hot summer days! Quench your dogs thirst by treating him to a wedge of watermelon. Comprising of 92% water, watermelon is a good option for rehydrating dogs if the weather calls for it.

Watermelon is packed with magnesium, vitamins A, B6 and C, which naturally boosts their immune system function. It also contains other nutrients such as beta-carotene, potassium, thiamin, and lycopene, just to name a few.

Top tip: Be sure to remove the rind and seeds as they can be toxic to dogs and cause blockages in their intestinal tract.

Blueberries

High in antioxidants, blueberries maintain healthy brain function and overall wellbeing. Blueberries contain vitamin C, which has anti-cancer and anti-disease properties, strengthening your doggies immune system from the inside out.

Top tip: Share a few blueberries with your pup at a time or better yet use them for training purposes. Their size makes them a perfect treat size for spoiling your doggie.

Bananas

Known as an energy-packed fruit, bananas contain vitamin C and B6, as well as heart-healthy potassium. The natural sugars are easily converted into energy, boosting your doggie’s health and wellbeing.

Top tip: Your dog will love the taste of bananas, so treat your dog to slices of banana, or even better, make him/her banana ice cream by blending a frozen banana in a food processor. Yum!

Pears

Pears are a real superfruit for dogs, containing an array of health benefits. The fiber contained in pears assists in relieving constipation and a substance called pectin aids in strengthening your doggie’s intestinal tract. Pears are also a good source of vitamin A and C.

Top tip: Be sure to remove the core and seeds before serving to your dog, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. Cut a pear in bite sized pieces and monitor your dog carefully to ensure that he/she does not choke on the pieces.

Apples

Like pears, apples are high in vitamin A, C, pectin and fiber. The pectin and fiber contained in apples assists the intestinal tract in removing toxins and bad bacteria from the colon, maintaining a healthy gut.

Your doggie will enjoy crunching on some crispy apple slices, and the chewing action will ensure that your dog has squeaky clean teeth to boot.

Top tip: Be sure to remove any stems and toxic seeds from the apple, as this could be a choking hazard and cause blockages in the colon.

Pineapple

Pineapple slices are a tasty treat for your doggie. They contain a large variety of vitamins and mineral such as, vitamin B1, B6, C, copper and folate to name a few. What really makes pineapple special is that it contains an enzyme called bromelain, which is good for both dogs and hoomans. Bromelain aids digestion by assisting in the breaking down of proteins and reducing inflammation in the body.

Top tip: Freeze piece of pineapple and place the frozen pieces in your dog’s water bowl. The frozen pineapple will keep your dog’s water cool on a hot day, as well as being a tasty snack for your dog.

The fruits suggested in the article should be consumed in moderation. Ensure that your dog has the best diet by feeding him/her a well-rounded diet that includes fat, protein and fiber. A healthy dog food brand such as Acana contains apples, pears, cranberries and blueberries, as well as providing a natural source of every nutrient and superfood your dog needs to thrive.