By Brandy Arnold on 04/28/2014

Vegetables are great for dogs. Because of their low calorie content, veggies make a delicious treat that won’t add bulk to your baby’s body. And, they can provide your dog with some of the essential nutrients he needs, reducing the need for vitamin supplements. Like in humans, the rich vitamins and minerals from numerous vegetable sources can offer countless alimentary benefits to dogs as well.

Veggies to Keep Dogs Healthy

1. Healthiest vine veggies - Squash, cucumbers, and green beans are generally identified to be the most nutritious vine vegetables for dogs. Squash and cucumbers, whether raw or cooked, are rich in potassium which is beneficial in keeping your dog’s kidneys healthy while at the same time reducing his propensity for heart failure. Plus, squash has high amounts of Vitamin A, folate, and calcium. Green beans, on the other hand, contain high contents of cellulose which can be good in helping a hefty pooch lose weight.

2. Top leafy greens - Celery generally provides a sufficient amount of vitamins like A, C, and K, and minerals such as fiber, riboflavin, folate, and lots of other nutrients that are beneficial to your dog’s health. However, it contains high levels of sodium, and should be fed in moderation. Another nutritious vegetable for Fido is parsley. Aside from vitamins A, C, and K, the plant is also rich in potassium, manganese, copper, and folate. In addition, spinach is also abounding with many vitamins such as A, C, E, and, K, and minerals like iron, thiamine, folate, potassium, calcium, zinc, and niacin. Like celery, spinach is also rich in sodium.

3. Best root veggies - Asparagus, carrot, and sweet potato are considered to be the top three most nutritious root vegetables readily available for dogs. Asparagus is rich in vitamins like A, B6, C, E, and K, and various minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, and copper. While carrots have rich cellulose content, Vitamin A, as well as beta-carotene, sweet potatoes, on the other hand, contain high levels of Vitamin A and B6, and potassium. Additionally, sweet potatoes contain high amounts of fiber, making them a great treat that also helps your dog to become “regular.” Both carrots and sweet potatoes make great low-calorie treats for pooches.

There are many other vegetables that not only appeal to Fido’s taste, but can keep him healthy as well. Nevertheless, not all vegetables are safe to be eaten by your dog. Because there are lots of human foods that can cause harm to your pooch, make sure that you consult your vet before giving him anything that seems palatable.