20 Fruits & Veggies That Are Good For Dogs
I love to mix things up when I’m training Laika, and switching up her treats is an easy way to keep her motivated. And rather than having to buy bags of treats all the time I usually just pick out some fruits and veggies I’ve already got on hand.
My dog will literally work for celery — it doesn’t get much better than that.
20 Fruits & Veggies That Are Good For Dogs
Looking for some healthy treats for your dog? I was too and I kept finding myself asking “can my dog eat that?” when looking at all of the human foods we have in our house. But after doing some research I figured out which fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs, so I made this list for quick reference.
I love using fruits and veggies for treats; they’re healthy, they’re low in calories, and they’re something I’ve already got on hand. Here’s 20 fruits and veggies that are good for dogs.
These Treats Are Healthy, But Remember to Use in Moderation
When it comes to giving your dog fruits & veggies moderation is key. Too much of any treat, regardless of how healthy they are, can cause stomach issues for your dog — especially if it’s a treat they’re not used to.
Fruits have an abundance of natural sugar, so stick with a few small pieces at a time. Many fruits & veggies are high in fiber which is great for us, but in dogs too much fiber can cause digestive problems. Although fruits & veggies tend to be low in calories they can add up quickly.
When feeding your dog fruits & veggies make sure to wash thoroughly and remove seeds before serving.
The Benefits of Using Fruits & Veggies as Dog Treats
The reason I love using fruits & veggies as treats for my dog is because I can easily control the portion size (making your own homemade dog treats is another great way to control portion size). Besides Zukes I haven’t seen many dog treats that come in a nice small size. Have you looked at the size of most dog treats lately? They’re huge.
The other benefit of course is knowing exactly what my dog is consuming. I don’t have to worry about ingredients I’m not familiar with, nor the ones I can’t even begin to pronounce. Here’s a list of 20 fruits and veggies that are good for dogs.
1. Carrots
If my dog Laika had her way I’d be using carrots as dog treats everyday — she absolutely loves them. They’re easy to clean, peel, and chop up so I’m also a big fan — and yes, carrots are safe for dogs. If you don’t like chopping and peeling you can give your dog baby carrots.
Carrots are high in fiber, low in calories, a good source of beta carotene and vitamin A. Their extra crunchiness also makes them good for your dogs teeth. Carrots are pretty high in carbohydrates, so remember use in moderation.
2. Sugar Snap Peas
Sugar snap peas are Laika’s favorite treat by far — and they’re pretty nutrient rich. They just need a quick washing and they’re ready to go. You won’t see my trimming Laika’s nails without a few of these on hand. Sugar snap peas are a good source of fiber, protein, phosphorus, folate, zinc, manganese, and potassium. They’re also a great source of vitamins C & K.
3. Green Beans
When I give Laika green beans she seems a bit perplexed; I think she assumes they’re going to be snap peas. She’ll eat them regardless, but she always pauses for a moment. Green beans are a great source of fiber, manganese, and vitamins A, C & K. To use them as training treats I was them thoroughly and cut the ends off.
4. Apples
Apples are another favorite of mine when it comes to healthy dog treats. They’re relatively cheap and something we’ve always got on hand. They’re a good source of vitamins A & C, as well as being high in fiber. Because apples tend to have the highest concentration of pesticides out of any fruit make sure you wash thoroughly. Remember to remove the stem, core, and seeds before giving your dog an apple.
5. Blueberries
Blueberries are another great fruit that’s good for dogs, and many consider them a superfruit because of they’re so rich in antioxidants.
These can be a bit messy but they’re easy to manage when frozen. Their small size makes them a perfect little training treat. They’re low in fat, high in fiber and vitamin C. A 2006 study found that supplementing sled dogs’ diets with blueberries increased the amount of antioxidants in their bodies.
Blueberries have a tendency to stain everything; so you might want to consider using these outdoor treats only.
6. Sweet Potatoes
Some of our favorite recipes use sweet potatoes; they make long lasting treats. They are excellent sources of Vitamins A, B5, B6 and C and they’re high in fiber, manganese, and potassium. To use them as treats I’d suggest using a food dehydrator or boiling them first. You can chop them up into little bite sized snacks or serve them in larger “chips.”
7. Watermelon (Seedless)
In the summertime I’ve always got some watermelon on hand. They’re an excellent source of water (92%), potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A & C. Make sure you buy seedless watermelon or take the time to remove the seeds and rind before serving.
8. Strawberries
Who doesn’t love strawberries? They’re full of fiber, magnesium, potassium, iodine, and folic acid. They also contain omega 3 fatty acids and plenty of vitamins B1, B6, C and K. To use as a treat I remove the top and cut in half after washing thoroughly.
Strawberries do contain a lot of sugar, so like most treats be sure to use them in moderation.
9. Bananas
When using bananas as training treats I like to dice them up and freeze them. Bananas are high in potassium, fiber, and magnesium. They also contain plenty of vitamin B6 & C. Laika loves them, but my previous dog wouldn’t go near them; your mileage may vary.
10. Cantaloupe
I was surprised by how well Laika loved cantaloupe once she actually tried it. She spent so much time thoroughly inspecting it before she dared touch it. Cantaloupe contains vitamins A, B and C. It also contains high amounts of beta carotene and potassium. Before giving to your dog make sure you remove the seeds and rind.
11. Celery
Laika loves plain old celery – just like many dogs she’s a fan of super crunchy things. Celery is a great source of vitamins A, B, and C, calcium, potassium, iron, sodium, and phosphorus. It doesn’t get much simpler than washing and chopping up celery.
12. Cucumber
Cucumber is another great healthy treat for dogs that’s low in calories. Cucumbers are an excellent source of vitamin K. To make them into dog training treats I cut them in half lengthwise to remove the seeds. Then they’re washed and chopped up into bite sized pieces.
13. Pumpkin
Pumpkin is one of the most popular healthy treats for dogs. There are numerous health benefits to pumpkin which is why it’s known as a super fruit. It’s a low calorie fruit rich in vitamins A & C, beta carotene, potassium, calcium, zinc, fiber, and magnesium. Canned or cooked fresh pumpkin is preferred — dogs can even have pumpkin seeds in moderation.
In addition to being good for your dogs skin and coat, pumpkin can also help alleviate mild digestive issues such as diarrhea or constipation.
14. Broccoli
Broccoli is safe for dogs in moderation. Broccoli is high in fiber and Vitamin C. Broccoli contains isothiocyanates, a chemical has been known to cause stomach upset in some dogs. In small quantities broccoli is safe for dogs.
15. Brussell Sprouts
Brusssel sprouts are good for dogs, though Laika’s not a fan and will spit them out immediately. They’re rich in dietary fiber and nutrients. Brussel sprouts are known to cause gas, so you may want to feed in moderation.
16. Zucchini
Zucchini is a great low calorie treat for your dog. They’re rich in vitamins B & C, and they’re a great source of dietary fiber. My dog’s not a fan of zucchini, but she is pretty picky.
17. Raspberries
Raspberries are good for dogs in moderation. They’re low in calories and high in fiber and vitamin C. They do contain slight amounts of xylitol, so give your dog raspberries in moderation.
18. Pineapple
Pineapple is another fruit that’s good for dogs. It’s a healthy treat that has a large amount of vitamin C as well as being high in fiber. Because it’s so high in fiber use moderation when giving your dog pineapple.
19. Pears
Pears are another fruit dogs can eat. They’re high in vitamins C & K, as well as being high in fiber. Raw pears are 84% water, 15% carbohydrates and contains negligible protein and fat, making them a great low calorie snack.
Just remember to remove the seeds and and pit before giving it to your dog since they pose a choking hazard.
20. Spinach
Spinach is good for dogs, but if yours is like mine she won’t have anything to do with it. She’s picky like that. Spinach is a good source of iron, antioxidants and vitamin K.
Resources & Recommended Reading
- 10 Easy Pieces to Liven Up Your Dog’s Dinner
- Mouth Watering Snacks For Your Dog
- 10 “People” Foods for Dogs
What Fruits & Veggies Does Your Dog Love?
Does your dog go bonkers for carrots & snap peas like mine? Have you managed to get your dog to eat asparagus? I’d love to know what healthy human treats your dog enjoys. Besides Zukes have you found any other bite sized healthy dog treats?
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Great list! I mostly moved away from Zuke’s once they were purchased by Purina, but we have won several giveaways recently and have quite a supply! Cloud Star makes similar small, soft training treats, but I even break those and Zuke’s into pieces sometimes!
Ruby loves fruits and vegetables – last night I discovered that she likes celery and some of her favorites are carrots, strawberries, watermelon and pineapple.
I’ll check out Cloud Star – it’s so weird that most dog treats are so huge, my dog will happily work for itty bitty treats.
I cook my dogs food because she got sick and I only feed her chicken, turkey or beef mixed with cooked vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoe, celery, carrots and string beans with added cooked barley or quinoa, rice etc. she just loves it!!! I also add supplements to boost her immune system.. a great one is “life extension dog mix” it’s great!
That’s awesome. Us too cook for my dogs. Chicken breasts, carrots, peas, spinach, sweet potatoes, brown rice. We also add fruits, like apples, blueberries, or strawberries. We cook their food once a week. We placed them in containers and freeze them for each day if the week. We give them a cup mixed with grain free chicken Purina One dog food. Their veterinarian is aware of their diet.
That’s good my boy Jax he loves fruits and vegetables of course only the ones that are good for him. Jax is a 10 1/2 month Australian Shepherd I love him so much
Hi Jen,
First, congratulations on your BlogPaws Nose-to-Nose nomination! That’s very exciting and I have to say very much deserved.
These are some great ideas and a smart way to reward with healthy treats. Haley loves them all except for celery, haha!
I still can’t believe Laika loves celery… it’s just so weird lol. Thank you so much; I’m very excited and honored to have been nominated.
How about Broccoli Florets ？it was said that is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables for dog to eat. Right?
http://class.dogloveit.com/eight-great-veggies-your-dog-can-eat/
I really should have added broccoli as well, you’re right. For some reason Laika isn’t fond of them but they are super nutritious.
I’ve been feeding my German Shepherd Broccoli on a daily basis for months. She loves it almost as much as chicken. Then my brother read an article saying broccoli florets are not good for your dog. So we stopped! It’s crazy because we have a very conservative,stern vet. Help!!
Broccoli is considered safe for dogs in moderation. The concern is that broccoli contains isothiocyanates, which can cause stomach problems (gastric irritation) for some dogs. (http://www.akc.org/content/health/articles/can-dogs-eat-broccoli/ for more info)
Wow, that’s great she will even work for celery! Haha! Silly dog! Ace’s favorite fruits are apples and bananas and berries. He’s not a fan of veggies. I like your idea of dicing up bananas and freezing them. I will try that!
And congrats on being a finalist for best new pet blog!
Great post, Jen! Our boys love carrots, apples and sweet potatoes. I’m really excited to try out snap peas now too – I had never thought of that.
Another great thing about treating with veggies is that very satisfying “crunch” sound they make while eating them! 🙂
I laughed about Laika and the spinach – It is the only thing I have ever found that our dogs will not eat. They still give it a shot every time a piece falls on the ground but they end up spitting it back out!
Oh my gosh I know – she’ll try the spinach each time but yeah, it ends up back on the floor. Reminds me of my previous dog Carter who was very bad one day – he got up on the stove and ate a couple pieces of pizza. Perhaps I wouldn’t have noticed if he hadn’t left every single olive on the floor. He ate every other last bite but spit those out. Dogs are weird. Snap peas are awesome for the crunchiness 🙂
We tried putting some carrots in with their food and we were shocked at how much more “full” they acted and how much slower they ate!
What a great list! Going to have to give celery a try, should be interesting! 🙂
Magic loves broccoli and oranges!
This is a great list! Our FiveSibes love fruits and veggies, such healthy treats! Will be sharing this over on our FiveSibes Facebook page, too!
Oscar is a bit of a treat snob – I can’t tempt him with fruits/veggies. Nope – he needs one that is either: homemade; smells of meat; or cost me a pretty penny!
Luna enjoys all of these options! We use bananas and blueberries the most!
My poodle name is luna. have you looked the name up goddess of the moon.there was zlotys of good things about that name
Those sound like some great fruit and vegetable choices! Dogs are so lucky that they can eat those 🙂 It sounds like your dog has great taste!
TY for letting folks know there are viable treat options that are not high in calories and come from nature.
Thank you for the informative post. Fruits and vegetables make really healthy dog treats. 🙂
Congrats Jenn. All three of my dogs love oranges and tangerines. They pretty much each anything you give them but I do limit them to fruits and fresh veggies. Mushrooms are another great treat that they love.
Nichole< I just read a site that said MUSHROOMS are TOXIC for dogs! please look that up and see if its true,
Using fruit and veggies is a great idea! I love the idea of adding variety – surprise Henry! We do agility and CGN training. Normally, we’ll cut down on Henry’s supper on a training night as the treats soon add up!
Brick loooooves carrots! I can’t even eat them anymore without him begging for one! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
My dogs love bananas and apples. When Harmony was on her weight loss plan she ate green beans, carrots, sweet potatoes and blueberries.
Huckleberry, my border collie/Aussie shepherd mix loves watermelon, thinly sliced apples, cucumber, cooked broccoli, cooked dark green veggies, cooked carrots, but he doesn’t eat blueberries or any berries, sadly. Strange thing is he loves seasoned laver (seaweed) and kimchi.
My baby Husky who is 3 months old loves seedless watermelon. I use it as a training treat and when he is on his best behavior.
Good call, seedless watermelon is another great one.
Great blog and what a great idea! I’ve tried feeding my dog veggies in the past, but she just spits it out. Do you know of a healthy treat recipe (using the fruits and veggies you’ve mentioned) for a treat my dog (and new puppy) will actually eat? Thanks for all the helpful information.
There’s a big variety of apple dog treat recipes out there (and quite a few banana ones), and I have my favorites listed here: https://www.puppyleaks.com/simple-dog-treat-recipes/
Cool! Thank you so much. I can’t wait to try them out!
I have a four month old Golden cross and he loves fruit, and veggies. I have used fruit and veggies ever since I found this site. He has a veggie or fruit mixed in his food everyday. He gets only fruits and veggies not commercial made snacks. He loves everything so far. I have turned other friends onto your site as well.
My dog loves Crumps Naturals – they’re based in Ontario, Canada and most of their products are single ingredient/non-GMO. The sweet potato and liver treats make my dog Lose. Her. Sh*t. (in a good way) 🙂
My ChihuahuaTequila-Rose eats everything I do has since I got her at10 weeks old and now she’s 8 never had a problem except 6lbs instead of 2lbs
Our groomer mentioned to us they had found blueberries help reduce or make eye stains disappear. Thought it was odd but several years ago we started to give our Shit Tzu 2-3 a day when they were affordable.
Not joking when I say it worked like a charm. She also just love them. Well, those and green beans.
Great post
Our puppy loves bok choy!
Great post, thank you! My Frenchie, Vinnie, is a rescue who was the result of horrific breeding practises on a puppy farm in Poland. His health has never been good because of poor breeding, but he’s always a happy dog. He’s getting slower and less energetic now at just 5 years old, so he has put on a bit of weight. I have stopped all doggy treats and I’m making his food from scratch (lean chicken, turkey, fish with sweet potato and carrot) and he gets fruits and vegetables as treats. I decided to try him with watermelon because of the hot weather and I wanted to make sure he was getting enough fluids. He loves it! He takes a piece and then runs into another room to eat it in case I steal it ? Thanks for giving me a list of fruit and veggies he can eat safely in moderation ?
Just received a 5 year old Maltese and found you blog on the internet. Angel is her name. Now I know what I can feed her to keep her healthy.
Our Mayzie loves bananas, apples and any berry that we’ll let her have (especially blueberries). My son was making a Thai veggie soup this afternoon, and we found out when he dropped some pieces that she really likes bok choy and cilantro too! Thanks for the list so we know what’s safe for her.
Thank you for your list of food’s I can feed my fourteen old Shih Tzu . I didn’t see pea s on the list . Are they safe , if not , why not . Thank you so much for this information .
My poodle name is luna. have you looked the name up goddess of the moon.there was zlotys of good things about that name
Can you give fruits and veggies (carrots & apples in particular) to puppies that still have their baby teeth or should I wait until his permanent teeth are in?
Brussel sprouts can cause gas – be careful! 😀
Thanks for sharing this blog it was very good
My dog loves green peppers in moderation
Are almonds safe for dogs?
My dog will dance at my feet the second she sees me with tomatoes or bell peppers.