Safe Fresh Fruit and Veggie Treats

August means fresh fruit and veggies abound in gardens and local farmer’s markets. While we may love tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, corn, and squash, our pups might find some of those foods difficult to digest. Read on to learn more about which fruits and veggies can be shared as an occasional treat!

Tomatoes

Solanine is a substance found in the leaves and stem of the tomato plant and also in unripe, green tomatoes. Solanine is potentially harmful to dogs if it is ingested in large amounts. If your pup enjoys gardening with you, be sure he’s not helping himself to unripe tomatoes. Ripe, red tomatoes, however, are safe to give as a treat.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers: Bell peppers contain vitamins A and C. These vitamins can help improve your dog’s eyesight and even prevent cataracts later in your dog’s life. Keep in mind to cook or sauté the bell peppers first, as raw peppers can be hard for your dog to digest. You should also avoid giving your dog a whole bell pepper as that can cause stomach upset. In general, though, cooked bell peppers that are then cut into bite-sized pieces are fine to give your pup.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers: While pickles may be a bit too difficult on your pup’s digestive tract, plain cucumbers are a safe treat to give! Cucumbers can be easily digested by dogs, especially if the cucumbers are cut into manageable-sized pieces.

Corn

Corn: Individual kernels of cooked corn can make a fine treat. But if you’re at a barbecue and want to give your pup a whole corn on the cob, you should reconsider. The cob of the corn poses a choking risk. And, if consumed, even a small piece of the cob can cause an intestinal blockage.

Squash

Squash: Dogs have a hard time consuming uncooked squash, so always cook the squash before offering any to your pup. Also, be sure to take off the squash’s skin and remove any seeds first. Squash skin and seeds are poisonous to pups if they are consumed.

Notes

Notes: While the above fruits and veggies can be safe treats, always consult a vet if you have any questions. And remember, when it comes to treats, it is best to offer them in small amounts. Along with a balanced diet, pups also need plenty of exercise. Time to get out there and walk!

Written by Mara Cobb