Do Dogs Need Vegetables In Their Diet?
When it comes to the nutrition of our beloved four-legged family members, there's a lot of debate about whether dogs need to eat vegetables. Many dog owners are curious to know if veggies are necessary for their furry friends, or if they should stick with a diet of meat and other animal-based products.
If we look back long ago before humans developed kibble, dogs ate their food in the wild. They ate other animals which we all know consist of protein, fats, bones, and offal. What we often forget is that the animals that were eaten by dogs in the wild generally always had vegetable matter in their stomachs that are then also eaten by dogs.
What Are The Benefits Of Vegetables For Dogs?
There are great health benefits from eating vegetables. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which helps to keep the digestive system running properly. Additionally, some vegetables contain antioxidants which can help to protect the body from disease.
When it comes to feeding your dog vegetables, make sure it is finely chopped or grated to aid in digestion, and only allow about 20% of vegetable matter in your dog’s diet.
What Vegetables Should Dogs NOT Eat?
It's important to note that dogs are not able to digest many vegetables as well as humans. As such, it's important to feed them the right kind of vegetables, in the right proportions.
There are vegetables (and fruits) that should be avoided at all times including:
- Onions
- Grapes and raisins
- Cherries
- Rhubarb
- Mushrooms
- Raw and green potatoes
- Apricots
- Apple seeds
- Tomato plants
Keep all of the above out of your dog’s bowls. If, however, you wish to try a new type of veg on your pooch, seek advice, and if in doubt, ask your veterinarian.
When it comes to giving your dog vegetables, it's important to remember that they should not be the primary source of nutrition. A balanced diet should include a variety of sources of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
At Raw & Fresh, we have options that include or exclude vegetables so the choice is yours! Check out our raw dog food options and our guide on how much to feed your dog.