Safe Fruits and Vegetables for Dogs During Summer

Safe Fruits and Vegetables for Dogs During Summer

When summer hits, we all look for something cool and refreshing---including our dogs. While store-bought treats are easy, many fresh fruits and vegetables are actually safe and healthy for dogs. Some even help them stay hydrated during the hotter months. But not everything in your fridge or fruit bowl is safe for your pup, so it's important to know what's okay to share---and what's not.

Here are some great summer fruits and veggies that are safe for dogs, plus a few to avoid.

1. Watermelon

Watermelon is one of the best fruits you can give your dog during the summer. It's made up of over 90% water, so it helps keep your pup hydrated on those hot days. It also contains vitamins like A, B6, and C.
Just make sure to remove the seeds and rind before serving. The seeds can be a choking hazard or cause a blockage, and the rind is tough on your dog's stomach. Cut the fruit into small chunks or freeze the pieces for a crunchy treat that doubles as a cooling snack.

2. Blueberry

Blueberries are another summertime winner. These tiny berries are full of antioxidants, low in calories, and perfectly sized for a quick snack or reward during training.
They can be served fresh or frozen, depending on what your dog likes. Just don't overdo it---too many can cause an upset stomach, especially for smaller dogs. A small handful goes a long way.

3. Cucumber

If your dog enjoys crunchy snacks, cucumber is a great choice. It's cool, crisp, and made mostly of water, making it an ideal warm-weather snack. Cucumbers are also low in calories and gentle on the stomach.
You can serve them raw, sliced into sticks or thin rounds. Some dogs prefer peeled cucumber if they have sensitive stomachs, but most pups enjoy the crunch just as it is.

4. Carrot

Carrots are available all year round, but they really shine in the summer as a healthy snack. They're rich in beta-carotene, low in calories, and help keep teeth clean thanks to their crunchy texture.
You can serve carrots raw or lightly steamed. For an extra treat, pop a peeled carrot into the freezer---many dogs love to gnaw on it like a popsicle.

5. Strawberry

Strawberries are a sweet, juicy fruit that many dogs enjoy. They're full of fiber and vitamin C and can make a nice occasional treat.
Make sure to remove the stem and cut the berries into small pieces before serving. You can also mash them into your dog's food for a little extra flavor. Just keep the portion small---strawberries have natural sugar, and too much can lead to stomach upset.

6. Green Beans

Green beans are a great option if your dog needs a filling, low-calorie snack. They're packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and most dogs like their mild taste.
They can be served raw or steamed, but skip any added salt or seasonings. If your dog is small, chop the beans into smaller pieces to avoid choking.

7. Apple

Sliced apples make a great summer snack for dogs. They're crunchy, naturally sweet, and a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
Just be sure to remove the core and all seeds before offering them to your pup---apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide and can be harmful over time. Thin apple slices or small chunks are perfect, and you can even freeze them for a chilled treat.

8. Zucchini

Zucchini might not be the most exciting veggie, but it's definitely a safe one. It's low in calories and high in fiber, with a mild flavor that blends well with your dog's usual meals.
You can offer it raw or lightly cooked---just keep it plain. No garlic, oil, or seasonings.

What to Avoid

While the list of safe fruits and veggies is long, there are some foods you should never give to your dog:

  • Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic and can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts.
  • Onions and garlic---raw, cooked, or powdered---can harm your dog's red blood cells.
  • Avocados contain a substance called persin, which may be dangerous in large amounts.
  • While tomatoes may seem harmless, the green parts of the plant and unripe tomatoes contain solanine, which can be toxic.

Don't Forget Portion Control

Even healthy snacks can cause problems if you give too much. Fruits and veggies should only make up about 10% of your dog's daily diet. Keep portions small, especially when trying something new, and watch for any signs of stomach upset or allergies. If your dog has any health conditions or is on a special diet, check with your vet before introducing new treats.

Make It Fun This Summer

Want to get creative? Try:

  • Blending watermelon, cucumber, and a few blueberries with water, then freezing the mix in an ice cube tray.
  • Adding chopped strawberries to plain Greek yogurt and freezing in silicone molds.
    These DIY dog treats are simple to make and can be a fun way to cool off during a backyard hangout.

Summer is a great time to treat your dog to some healthy, cooling snacks. With a little care and the right ingredients, you can help your pup stay cool, hydrated, and happy all season long.

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