If you are like most pet owners, you provide your dog with food that most effectively meets their dietary needs within your budget. While commercial dog food has a lot to offer, your pet can benefit from the occasional inclusion of varied, whole food items. Did you know that many of the same superfoods that are great for you are also healthy for your pup?
Superfoods are food items that have been linked to notable positive health changes, including reduced inflammation, joint protection, and more. Balancing natural nutrition with commercially provided food is the most efficient way to improve your dog’s health. If you are looking for some new and exciting items for your dog to enjoy, consider the following (but remember, everything in moderation)!
Broccoli
Have you ever purchased a head of broccoli with the stem still attached? If so, it could serve as a delectable treat. Broccoli is a fiber-rich vegetable high in minerals such as potassium and calcium, which can help to regulate the concentration of your pet’s urine. This may reduce the likelihood of issues such as bladder stones and support overall wellness.
However, just be aware that broccoli is also high in sulfur compounds and fiber. Your pet may enjoy the snack, but you might not enjoy the gassy smell they leave behind! Broccoli is best served as an occasional snack, not a regular part of your pet’s daily life.
Pumpkin
Like broccoli, pumpkin is high in fiber. It is also a low-calorie treat and contains antioxidants that can help promote lifelong health and reduce the consequences of stress on your dog’s cells. Oxidative stress contributes to aging, so incorporating foods rich in antioxidants may help your pet live a longer, healthier life.
While pumpkin can be given frequently, it contains high amounts of fiber, which can change your pet’s potty habits. It can bulk up the stool, making it a viable option for owners whose dogs struggle with expressing their anal glands. Be sure to choose 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling that contains sugar, spices, or artificial ingredients.
Oily Fish
Just as humans can enjoy the skin benefits of fish oil, dogs can enjoy a heightened sheen and smoothness of their coats by eating fatty fish. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish such as salmon can help reduce inflammation, which has been shown to decrease pain in dogs by around 20%.
Oily fish include trout, sardines, salmon, and mackerel. Use human-grade fish products or freeze the fish for at least 24 hours to keep your pet safe from parasites.
Chia Seeds
If you have never heard of chia seeds, you may be surprised to learn that you have likely eaten them without realizing it. These tiny seeds do not need to be ground; instead, they become slightly larger when exposed to moisture, which allows them to function well as a source of extra fiber.
Like oily fish, they are rich in fatty acids; however, despite this designation, the fatty acids in chia seeds are primarily polyunsaturated fats, which are associated with lower cholesterol and reduced obesity in dogs.
Sprinkle some chia seeds on your pet’s food for an easy meal upgrade. Just be sure to keep the dusting light; chia expands, so it is best not to add too much at once.
Human-Healthy Foods to Avoid
While dogs can enjoy many of the same superfoods as humans, there are some items that are nutritional powerhouses for people but dangerous for your pet. Never feed your dog the following:
- Grapes and raisins: Any product derived from grapes contains chemicals that can cause sudden and unexpected kidney failure in dogs, sometimes beginning within a few hours of eating grape products. Even a quarter of a grape can have deleterious effects, many of which may be life-threatening, with little time to act.
- Onion, garlic, or chives: Members of the allium family contain compounds that can interfere with a dog’s ability to create and use red blood cells. This may lead to anemia, interfering with your pet’s circulation and oxygen saturation. Whole, powdered, and cooked alliums are all problematic.
- Avocado: The high fat concentration in avocados can lead to acute pancreatitis if ingested. Additionally, the persin inside can cause gastrointestinal upset and even difficulty breathing.
Keep Your Pet Healthy for a Lifetime
If you want to add more variety to your pet’s life and take full advantage of the nutritional spectrum nature has to offer, adding superfoods to your dog’s diet can be an exciting part of their day. In addition to other health-boosting practices, such as regular play and exercise during walks, incorporating superfoods into your pet’s diet can help you enjoy their presence for as long as possible.
Contact Paw Pals to set up the exercise portion of your pup’s health strategy; we will make sure they get the exercise and exploration they deserve when you’re not home.
