What you feed your dog has a significant impact on their health, which is why giving them healthy and natural treats is ideal. There’s no need to spend your money on expensive treats at the pet store; chances are you have a lot of fruits and vegetables on hand that your dog will love. The veterinarian at Animal Medical Center in Foley, AL, has shared a guide below so you know what to give—and not give—your dog.

Veterinarian Guide to Healthy Dog Treats

What to Give Them

While your furry family member shouldn’t get food off your own plate, raw fruits and vegetables are an exception. Most of them are a safe, natural, and healthy option that provide numerous health benefits. Vegetables safe to give dogs include carrots, celery, zucchini, green bell peppers, broccoli, cucumber, and asparagus. Recommended fruits include strawberries, peaches, watermelon, and blueberries.

If you don’t have vegetables on hand, popcorn is a good choice as well. It’s a low-calorie, fun snack for the both of you that contains potassium, calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium. Simply air pop the kernels and don’t add any butter or salt to your dog’s portion.

What to Avoid

As you experiment with new snacks for your pup, remember that some foods are unsafe for them. They may be toxic for your dog and can make them sick. For example, dogs are naturally lactose intolerant, so feeding them any dairy products can make them sick or even cause gastrointestinal diseases. Other foods to avoid include grapes, raisins, avocado, garlic, onions, and any salty foods.

Dr. John Heilmeier, Dr. Kasey Singley, and the team at Animal Medical Center are dedicated to keeping your dog happy and healthy. They can give you more advice on the best foods to give your dog, provide all the pet supplies you need and help with dog grooming. Their animal clinic is stocked with the latest technology to give your dog the best possible care. Contact them at (251) 955-5900 to schedule an appointment with their veterinarian.