It doesn’t matter if you feed your dog a raw diet or quality kibble, seasonal fruit and veg are a great addition to their meal. We’re lucky in Australia to have access to great produce year-round and by sticking to what’s in season you’ll maximise both flavour, nutrition and value for money. Here are our top picks for March.
Pear
Pears contain vitamin C and K which support your dogs overall health and they’re packed with fibre for digestive health. They also have a high water content and can help keep your dog hydrated. Pear is sweet so only give in moderation and remove the seeds and core before serving bite sized chunks.
Sweet potato
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals that dogs need to thrive. They contain vitamin C, which supports the immune system and vitamin B6, which aids in metabolism and brain function. They're a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function. Sweet potatoes are high in fibre and great for keeping pups regular. Rich in antioxidants, they’ll help keep coats healthy and shiny. Peel the sweet potatoes before roasting or boiling and serve them plain.
Apple
Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, apples make healthy snacks. And they’re great for your dogs’ teeth! Chewing on a crunchy piece of apple can help promote dental health by reducing plaque buildup, removing food particles from between the teeth and freshening your dogs’ breath (yes please!). Cut into bite-sized pieces and always remove the seeds and core before serving.
Broccoli
This is Ebba’s favourite! It doesn’t matter what we serve her, if there’s broccoli, she’ll always eat that first. Broccoli is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate. These nutrients support various aspects of your dog's health, such as immune function, bone health, and vision. Serve broccoli cooked rather than raw and make sure you use all of it, including the stalk. When you peel the stalk it’s super tasty, for both dogs and humans.
Plum
When prepared and served correctly, plums are safe and nutritious for dogs. The seeds of plums, like those of other stone fruits, contain cyanide compounds, which can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities. Swallowing a plum seed can lead to intestinal blockages or cyanide poisoning so always remove the seeds before offering plums to your dog. Plums are full of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fibre and antioxidants but they’re also high in sugar and can be harsh on sensitive tummies so serve in moderation.
Zucchini
Zucchini is low in fat and high in fibre and water, making it a healthy addition to your dog's diet. Packed with nutrients and easy to prepare, zucchini is our go to veggie (apart from broccoli). You can serve it raw or cooked. We grate it raw over Ebba’s food and she loves it!
Pawpaw
No, pawpaw is not another name for papaya, however dogs can eat both. Pawpaw contains enzymes such as papain, which can aid in digestion and help break down proteins. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues or occasional gastrointestinal upset. Before serving pawpaw remove the skin and seeds as these can be toxic to dogs.
Potato
Just like sweet potatoes, potatoes are a nutritious food for dogs. They’re rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6 and potassium and high in fibre. Potatoes are low in fat, making them a healthy option for dogs, especially those prone to weight gain. Why not try a piece of potato as a nutritious alternative to fatty treats? Peel the potatoes before roasting or boiling and serve them plain.
We’re not vets, we just love cooking delicious and nutritious food for our dog. If you have any concerns about your dog's diet, please speak to your vet. As with any new food, always start small and introduce it slowly.