6 Spring Veggies and Fruits Your Dog Can Eat

It might not feel like it in the chillier parts of the US, but spring is here! And that means that we will be able to enjoy an array of delicious fruits and veggies that are in season for the next few months. The good news for your dog? Some of them are completely safe for your furry friend!

Let’s take a look at 6 spring fruits and veggies that your dog can eat.

Carrots
Carrots are a wonderful dog-friendly veggie that are cheap, widely available, and full of nutrients. Not only will they give your dog a big dose of vitamin A and antioxidants like beta carotene, they’re also crunchy enough to clean your dog’s teeth. 

Carrots can be served both raw and cooked. A few bite-sized pieces are great for teething puppies. Or, you might sprinkle a few carrot shavings on their food bowl.

Strawberries
We haven’t quite reached peak season for strawberries (that’ll happen in June), but you’ll start to see them in farmer’s markets and your local grocery store within the next month or two. And our tails are wagging in anticipation!

Strawberries are high in vitamin C and potassium. And they’re full of flavonoids, which are anti-inflammatory antioxidants. Because of their natural sweetness and texture, you typically don’t have to convince a dog to like strawberries. No one can resist a few bites of these delicious berries!

Spinach
We all know that spinach is one of the most nutritious leafy greens out there (thanks Popeye!), but did you also know it’s a safe food for dogs? And unlike some crunchier greens like kale or cabbage, spinach has a soft texture and mild flavor that many dogs love. Spinach is in season between March and June, so now is the perfect time to enjoy it!

We suggest incorporating spinach into your dog’s meals by adding just one or two tablespoons of steamed spinach in with their kibble. You can also puree it and freeze it for a pup-cicle. 

With a superfood like spinach, it’s important not to overdo it. Because spinach contains oxalic acid, a compound that can inhibit calcium absorption when digested in high amounts, you should consider this a once in a while treat.

Blueberries
Blueberries are a sure sign that spring is here! And this low-calorie treat is perfect for celebrating the new season with your dog. Blueberries are high in vitamins C and K, and they’ve been shown to improve cognitive function.

What we love about blueberries is that they’re already treat-sized! Whether frozen or fresh, you can toss a couple of blueberries to your dog throughout the day for a tasty snack. Or, you might mix them in with your favorite DIY dog treats.

Pineapples
This tropical fruit is in season during a short window between March and July. That’s when you’ll find the sweetest fruit at the best price. And lucky for your dog, this delicious produce is considered safe in moderation.

Pineapples are high in vitamins A, C, B6, and healthy minerals like manganese. And, because they have a high water and fiber content, they can support your dog’s digestive health. 

Pineapple can be served to your dog in small bites or as puree. Just make sure that you’ve completely removed the tough exterior and inner core.

Sugar snap peas
Snap peas are a staple of spring dishes, and they’re also highly nutritious. They’ve got a good amount of vitamin K, which can promote calcium absorption for strong bones. They’re also high in vitamin C, b-vitamins and antioxidants.

Like blueberries, we love that de-podded snap peas are already bite-sized for dogs. If your doggo likes them, they can be a great alternative to calorie-dense treats. Or, you can sprinkle them on top of your dog’s food bowl for added flavor and texture.

Spring veggies to avoid
There are many spring vegetables that aren’t safe for dogs, so make sure to do your research before introducing anything new this season. Certain herbs and root veggies like onions and garlic, for instance, are not safe for dogs in any quantity.

Other spring veggies, like broccoli and asparagus are technically safe for dogs to eat, but their high fiber content makes them a riskier choice than some of the other options we’ve included here.

How to introduce new foods safely
In this article, we’ve talked about a few spring fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs. And while dogs are natural omnivores, that doesn’t mean that you should be serving your pupper a plate of greens for every meal. People food should always be served in moderation and with an eye on their reactions. That’s because the high fiber content in fruits and veggies can lead to tummy aches in some dogs. If your dog shows any signs of discomfort, stop feeding them that particular ingredient. 

And, it’s always good to remember that even healthy ingredients will add additional calories to your dog’s diet. If your pup is overweight or on the edge of being overweight, be thoughtful about any extra snacks you give them. That being said, you may be able to use this opportunity to swap out their calorie-dense training treats with a low-calorie option that they love, like small bites of carrot or peas.

If your dog has any kind of history of health problems, it’s always best to ask your vet before introducing new foods. They may be able to recommend in-season fruits and veggies that are beneficial to your unique doggo.

What kind of spring medley will you try with your dog?
Whether you add a few blueberries to your DIY dog treats or mix in some carrot shavings with your dog’s food, there are plenty of Fido-friendly fruits and vegetables in season right now. Your pupper is in for a fantastic spring!

Looking for more ways to celebrate the new season? Install BreezeGuard Screens to your car so that your pup can smell all the loveliness of spring while on the way to the farmer’s market!