Many people believe dogs are carnivores. Dogs are omnivores; even wild wolves derive nutrition from plant and animal sources. As omnivores, dogs can digest both plants and meat. Many nutritionists believe a mixture of both is essential for a healthy dog. They benefit from fruits and vegetables as long as they receive them in appropriate amounts.
While your dog must eat meat to get the full array of amino acids he needs, vegetables help balance his diet. Vegetables contain essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and fiber. Vegetables supply essential phytonutrients that aren't found in meat. Hence, adding leafy greens to your pet's diet is very important.
There are many benefits of adding vegetables in dogs diet. But pet owners in recent times are experimenting differently with their furry friends. Research shows that shortly after the invention of processed pet foods, manufacturers had difficulty convincing parents to switch from foods in their refrigerators to commercial pet foods. Today, ninety-six per cent of pet owners are feeding dry commercial pet foods. Of that 96%, a large majority believe dried commercial pet food is all their pet needs and would never stop considering the benefits of adding fresh "human food."
Benefits of adding greens
The health benefits of greens for pets are that they will aid in faster bone growth with extra nutrition. A good rule for finding leafy greens your dog can eat is to stick to those you consume. Beans, spinach, carrots, cabbage, and broccoli are good sources of fibre for dogs. These vegetables are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, iron, and potassium, providing pets with health benefits.
When you feed green vegetables to your pet at least three times a week, there is a 70 to 90% reduction in their cancer risk. Vitamins in supplement form do not give your pet the same nutrition level as vegetables. Dogs who ate any green, leafy vegetable, such as broccoli, had a 90% lower risk of developing bladder cancer, and dogs who ate any yellow-orange vegetable, such as carrots, had a 70% lower chance!
So if the "cancer-reducing benefit" doesn't tickle your fancy enough to convince you to add leafy greens to your pet's diet, then maybe think of it this way. How bad would it suck if someone forced you to eat processed, dry foods your whole life?
Calcium, magnesium, and potassium are all in leafy green, dark vegetables. Some fruits and vegetables with the highest vitamin and mineral content include bananas, sweet potatoes, green beans, peas, and carrots. All of these foods are high in fibre. Feeding your pet green vegetables benefits your pet's kidneys, nerves, and muscles.
How can we add vegetables to their meals?
A dog's primary dietary need is meat, so following a strict vegetarian diet can be difficult. It takes a lot of preparation and planning to provide a dog or puppy with the right nutritional balance without meat. Unlike humans, dogs get the most nutrients when the veggies are uncooked. If you cook the vegetables instead of feeding them raw, consider steaming them to preserve as many nutrients as possible. The high fibre content of leafy green vegetables for your pets can cause stomach upset when first introduced into their diet. To keep your dog's tummy safe, introduce new foods gradually.
When you feed your dog the appropriate amounts, they will maintain a healthy weight. Even though most dogs love the taste of fruit and vegetables, getting a dog used to these foods early is a good idea. You can add oranges, apples, strawberries, and other fruits containing liquid substances. Only fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants. Providing antioxidant-rich foods to your dog is an excellent way to help prevent cancer, which is common in some breeds because antioxidants contribute to a more robust immune system.
If your dog dislikes vegetables and you want to supplement what he gets in his regular diet, you can chop or puree them and mix them into his meals. Adding some dog-safe peanut butter to treats can bring your dog started. Leafy green vegetables have many benefits for cats, too. We have found that many cats will eat some of these superfoods mixed into their food, but many will also turn their noses up at them. Leafy green vegetables for dogs and cats can benefit them in different ways, which is why it is essential to research them. Don't forget to consult your vet about them, too.
Final Thoughts:
If you have a dog carrying some extra pounds, adding vegetables and fruits to your pet's food can be an excellent way to help them lose weight. Your vet can tell you how to mix the formula to make the transition easier for your pup. To make it easier for you and safer for your dog, you may consider any leafy green vegetable suggested by your vet. Also, stop giving food items to your pet that have already been prepared in easy-to-use frozen packs to ensure your dog receives the right balance of fresh raw ingredients and nutrients.
If you want to get more information about any of your pet's needs, you can visit our website. We have everything for your furry companion. Pets are like our family members; we have to take care of them, and we will help you by guiding you through what you must do. Mr n Mrs Pet can help you find one so that your and your dog's lives become easy and fruitful. We have a network of experienced professionals for every pet-related service and we provide it at your doorstep.