Fruits and Veggies: Cancer Fighting Foods For Dogs

Inspired by Pimmy's journey, we want to show you how a carefully adjusted diet based in safe fruits & veggies for dogs can make a world of difference for your pup's health. After her MCT diagnosis  and treatment, our furry baby's meals were packed with specific nutrients to support her recovery and long-term well-being. By focusing on a few key areas, you can give your dog's health a major boost.

We all want our pups to have the best possible chance at a long and healthy life, and good nutrition is a cornerstone of that effort. Just like us, our furry companions can get a big boost from incorporating superfoods into their diet, particularly for long-term well-being. Our beloved furry baby, Pimmy, has shown us firsthand the significant influence of a diet rich in specific fruits and vegetables. This post will explore the amazing world of "Fruits and Veggies: Cancer Fighting Foods For Dogs" and how adding these tasty, nutritious options to your pup's meals can be a fantastic and proactive way to support their health and potentially keep them healthier for longer.

Our Diet Overhaul: A Closer Look at Pimmy's Journey

"Hey, my friends, it's Pimmy here! You've heard a bit about my diet change, but let me tell you the whole story. After my MCT diagnosis, Mom and Dad wanted to do everything they could to help me stay strong! We had to focus on foods that not only tasted great but also packed a punch with vitamins and minerals to support my immune system. We didn't change everything overnight; we started small, adding just a little bit of goodness to my meals each day. It was a gradual and fun journey of discovering new textures and flavours, and it made me feel so much better—full of energy and ready to play! This change showed us firsthand just how powerful a diet rich in the right fruits and vegetables can be!"

What Makes Up Colourful Cancer-Fighting Foods For Dogs?

You're right! It's all about choosing the right ingredients! Add a dash of cruciferous veggies like broccoli and kale. These are like little secret weapons, packed with sulforaphane, a powerful compound that may help fight off cancer. Don't forget the root vegetables! Carrots and sweet Potatoes are full of beta-carotene and fibre to support a strong immune system and healthy digestion. And for a burst of goodness, sprinkle on some berries! Blueberries and raspberries are antioxidant powerhouses that help protect your dog's cells and combat stress.

The Power of Vitamins and Minerals!

Just like us, dogs need a steady supply of vitamins and minerals to thrive. Fruits and vegetables are powerhouse sources of these essential building blocks:

• Vitamins: Vitamin A in carrots and sweet potatoes supports vision and the immune system. Vitamin C from bell peppers and blueberries boosts immunity and helps reduce inflammation. And the B vitamins in leafy greens are crucial for healthy energy.

• Minerals: Calcium in broccoli and kale builds strong bones. Potassium in bananas supports heart and muscle function. And Iron from spinach is key for healthy blood cells.
  

Fibre for a Happy Tummy!

Don't underestimate the power of fibre from fruits and vegetables for your pup's digestive health! It's a key ingredient for regulating bowel movements and promoting a thriving gut. Foods like apples and pumpkins are excellent sources that can aid in weight management and prevent constipation. This is particularly important for dogs with sensitive stomachs or specific health concerns like diabetes.

MY Colourful Fruit & Veggie Bowl: The Complete Cancer-Fighting Foods for Dogs Guide!

The vibrant colours you see in fruits and vegetables are a visual clue that they are packed with powerful compounds like antioxidants and phytochemicals. These are the super-soldiers of your dog's diet, helping to combat cellular damage, reduce inflammation, and support a strong immune system. The more colour you add to your dog's bowl, the more protective benefits they get!

"I love eating a rainbow every day, and here's a look at some of my favourites:

• Discover RED: Apples, Strawberries, Beetroot, Red Capsicum. My mom always makes sure to give me a slice of apple without the core and seeds. Strawberries are a sweet treat, and red capsicum is full of antioxidants that are great for my skin and coat!

• Explore YELLOW: Bananas, Pineapple, Peaches. Bananas are my go-to for a quick energy boost, and a little bit of fresh pineapple is a great way to help with digestion. Just be sure to take out the peach pit, as it's not safe for me!

• Discover ORANGE: Carrots, Sweet potatoes, and Pumpkin. Carrots are my favourite crunchy snack, and both sweet potatoes and pumpkin are amazing for keeping my tummy happy. My mom always cooks them first, and they're so delicious!

• Find GREEN: Broccoli, Cucumber, Bok Choy. I love chomping on a small piece of broccoli or cucumber! These are a great source of vitamins and hydration. Bok choy is a leafy green that’s packed with nutrients and perfectly safe for me in moderation.

• Uncover BLUE-PURPLE: Blueberries, Kumara, Plums. Blueberries are a delicious antioxidant powerhouse, and a few are a perfect treat. Kumara is a fantastic, cooked option. My mom is always extra careful to remove the pit and give me just a tiny piece of a plum—it's a very special treat!

• Find WHITE: Cauliflower. This is a great, low-fat source of fibre and Vitamin C. My mom gives me small raw and sometimes cooked pieces so I don’t get too gassy! Ha, ha, ha!
  

A Word on Preparation!

To ensure your dog can get the most from these foods, proper preparation is key. Because dogs lack the specific digestive enzymes to fully break down the outer walls of plant cells, you must make them easier to digest. The best methods include:

• Finely chopping, grating, pulping, mashing, or liquidising.

• Lightly cooking veggies like green beans or broccoli.

Important: Starchy carbohydrates like potatoes, pumpkins, and parsnips must always be cooked before being fed to your dog.

Serving with Care: The Importance of Moderation and Portions

Adding fruits and veggies to your furry friend's diet isn't just a tasty treat or a crunchy snack—it's vital for their overall health. However, balance is everything. While these foods are nutritional powerhouses, they should never make up more than 10% of your dog's total daily calorie intake. Too much of a good thing can cause an upset tummy, gas, or even diarrhea, especially with fruits that contain natural sugars.

When introducing a new fruit or veggie, start with just a small piece and watch how your dog reacts. If all goes well, you can gradually increase the portion size, always keeping it in that 10% treat rule. This simple practice helps you find what works best for your furry friend's unique digestive system.

Safe Preparation and Storage Tips!

Before giving any fruits or veggies to your pup, always wash them thoroughly under running water to remove dirt, pesticides, and bacteria. Peel off any hard or indigestible skins and, for fruits, be sure to remove all seeds, pits, stems, and cores, as these can be choking hazards or contain toxins.

Make sure to cut everything into small, bite-sized pieces that are just right for your pooch's mouth and how they like to chew. You can offer them raw for a taste of their natural goodness or lightly cooked if that's easier for your pooch to manage. Just remember to skip adding any sugar, salt, or spices. To maintain freshness, keep prepared fruits and veggies in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. For extended storage, freezing them for up to six months is a great option. You can thaw frozen items before giving them to your pooch or offer them frozen for a cool and enjoyable treat!

Crucial Safety First: What to Avoid!

While many fruits and veggies are a healthy addition to a pup's diet, some are highly toxic and should be avoided at all costs.

• Grapes & Raisins: These are highly poisonous to pups and should be strictly avoided. Ingestion of these fruits can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs.

• Cherries: Except for the small amount of flesh, the entire cherry plant contains cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. Keep your dog away from cherry trees and fallen fruit!

• Avocado: The pit, skin, and leaves contain a toxin called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea. It's simply not worth the risk.

• Onions, Garlic & Chives: These belong to the Allium family and are toxic to pets. They can damage your dog’s red blood cells and cause severe illness.

• Mushrooms: It's best to be extremely cautious and avoid sharing mushrooms entirely. With tens of thousands of species, it's nearly impossible to identify the toxic ones from the safe ones.

• Asparagus: It's not inherently unsafe, but it's not a great choice. Raw asparagus is difficult for us to digest, and cooking removes its nutritional value. Additionally, the asparagus fern is toxic!

Paw-some Q&A: Your Top Questions Answered

• How much fruit and veggies can I feed my dog? Remember the 10% rule—treats, including fruits and veggies, should never make up more than 10% of your dog's total daily calorie intake. Too much of a good thing can cause an upset tummy.

• What if my dog has a sensitive stomach? Start with just a tiny piece of a new fruit or veggie and see how they react. Slowly introduce new foods over a few days to avoid any tummy troubles.

• Can I give my dog canned or frozen vegetables? Frozen veggies are a fantastic, hydrating treat, especially on a hot day! When it comes to canned, check the label for low sodium or no salt added.

• Are all parts of the fruit/veggie safe? No! Always remove seeds, pits, stems, and cores. These can be choking hazards and often contain toxins.

Your Pup’s New Favourite Treats: Pimmy's Healthy Dog Treats NZ!

"As you can see, my friends, healthy foods are a huge part of my life. My parents love spoiling me with treats, but they make sure they're always healthy. That's why I'm so excited about my own line of treats, Pimmy's Healthy Dog Treats!, packed with all the delicious and nutritious ingredients we've been talking about! My favourite Pumpkin and Peanut Butter are made with real pumpkin, wholesome whole meal flour and safe and creamy Peanut Butter by Olive's Kitchen with a special immunity-boosting! And for a sweet and savoury combo, my Apple and Carrot Dog Treats are made with juicy apples, wholesome oat flour, and a touch of real chicken breast. Both are just pure, natural goodness—no weird stuff here!"

"Want to spoil your pup with the same healthy treats I love? Check out all my collections now!"

"And there you have it, my friends—my secret to staying vibrant and happy! Adding these colourful fruits and veggies to your dog's diet isn't just about nutrition; it's a way to show them how much you care about their long-term health and happiness. By choosing a mix of these delicious superfoods, you're giving your pup a powerful boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to help keep their bodies strong and full of life. Every little bit counts, and your furry friend will thank you with a tail wag and a big, sloppy kiss. So go ahead, make mealtime a colourful adventure, and help your dog live their healthiest, happiest life—just like me!"

For More Proactive Wellness Tips!

Pimmy's journey is a powerful reminder that every step toward health makes a difference! For more proactive wellness tips for your pup, be sure to check out our other posts:

. Pimmy's Healthy Dog Treats: Your Furry Friend's Favourite Natural Treats!

. Mast Cell Tumours In Dogs: What You Need To Know!

. Safe Superfoods For Dogs: The Best Fruits & Veggies!

A Little Note from Us: Before trying any new foods with your furry pal, it's always best to chat with your vet first. This blog shares some of Pimmy's favourite eats, which have played a big part in her recovery journey after her MCT experience and in keeping her feeling her best. We hope this information is helpful, but please remember it's not a substitute for professional vet or dietary advice. Sending lots of love to your pup, cheers!

Sources: National Canine Cancer Foundation  , Pooch & Mutt  , Dr Deanna Minich  , Dog Cancer , Canine Ceuticals  , Elmos Kitchen  , Vetericyn  , My Pet Nutritionist  , Bonza  , Imprimedicine  , MSD Manual Veterinary Manual