Table of Contents
1. Carrots
Let’s start small – carrots are a tasty veggie anyone can love. Rather than smothering them in ranch, try carrots dipped in hummus or Greek yogurt. Toss a few to your pup raw for a crunchy treat. If you’re making homemade dog food, carrots are the perfect addition to any recipe. Packed full of fiber, vitamins C and K, this superfood is supremely healthy for both humans and dogs.
2. Pumpkin
Another superfood on the orange spectrum is pumpkin! Like all orange-hued produce, it’s high in carotenoids, potassium and vitamin C. Enjoy pumpkin year-round in soups, sides, sauces, or even as salsa. There are dozens of pumpkin dog treat recipes, as the sweet gourd is irresistible to pups. When you’re buying pumpkin for homemade dog food or treats, be sure to buy plain puree – not spiced pumpkin pie filling.
3. Blueberries
Sensing a trend? Brightly colored fruits and veggies are packed full of vitamins that keep pups – and humans! – healthy. Antioxidants and vitamins C and E are this superfood’s claim to fame. However, go easy at first, as blueberries are also chock full of fiber. Too much of a good thing can cause diarrhea in dogs and pet parents. Freeze blueberries with this next superfood for a summery popsicle treat…
4. Yogurt
Like with all of these superfoods, only give your pet the unflavored, no-sugar-added versions. Good for the gut, yogurt has probiotic bacteria that promote digestive health in both two- and four-legged consumers. Dogs with food allergies to meat may find yogurt is a great – and tasty – source of protein. Always brush your dog’s teeth after feeding sugary foods like yogurt or fruit; canines’ canines aren’t used to sweet treats, which can cause cavities and other dental diseases over time.
5. Quinoa
Pets allergic to gluten should try quinoa, high in protein and fiber. Not technically a grain, it’s a seed from the same family as spinach, believe it or not. Diabetic dogs should try adding this lean source of protein to their diet, which is rich in iron and antioxidants as well. A true superfood, quinoa also provides all eight essential amino acids.
6. Sweet Potatoes
The third orangey veggie on our list, sweet potatoes are the highest in antioxidants. Healthy for the heart, add the superfood to any diet as part of diabetes management for dogs and humans. Dried sweet potato is a sweet snack, perfect for on the go. Humans can have them as a healthy substitute for starchy potato fries, while sweet potatoes are a staple in homemade dog food recipes. Around Thanksgiving in particular, dozens of dog treat recipes featuring the superfood can be found.
7. Fish
Dogs with food allergies to many kinds of meat may find fish an acceptable replacement. Humans, on the other hand, can treat fish as a lean source of protein and an alternative to chicken. Certain kinds of fish – including salmon, sardines, anchovies and cod – are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have beneficial effects for hair (and fur), nails, and joints. If your pet is suffering from a joint condition like hip dysplasia or arthritis, ask your vet if fish oil capsules are a good idea.
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