Boost Your Dog's Immunity with the Right Diet

Cranberries

Cranberries are a powerhouse of antioxidants, with very low calories. These antioxidants help protect cells from harmful free radicals, leading to faster cell regeneration. They are also rich in vitamins that can promote heart health and support strong bones. Additionally, numerous studies have shown that cranberries are an effective treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs).

How to Feed Cranberries to Dogs?

Dogs can enjoy cranberries in various forms: fresh, powdered, in tablet form, or as juice. Many commercial juices contain high levels of sugar and are not suitable for dogs, so it's best to opt for homemade juice when choosing a liquid option. If you decide to feed your dog fresh cranberries, medium to large dogs can be given a handful, while small dogs should have the cranberries cut in half. If you prefer cranberry supplements, remember to follow the dosage instructions (400 milligrams per 20 pounds of body weight per day).

Blueberries

Blueberries are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins C and K, which can help prevent colon cancer, heart disease, and obesity. They also aid in delaying the aging and memory loss in senior dogs. How to eat blueberries? The best way is to enjoy them in their natural form. Thoroughly wash them to avoid any pesticide residues. For medium to large dogs, a handful of blueberries is sufficient. For smaller dogs, the portion should be adjusted accordingly.

Spinach

Spinach is a very healthy and nutritious vegetable that can benefit our furry friends as well. It is rich in fiber, calcium, iron, potassium, vitamins A, B, K, C, E, and D, and has very low calories, so there's no need to worry about weight gain. Spinach can boost the immune system, prevent diseases, and improve a dog's teeth and respiratory health, as well as aid in detoxification.

How to Feed Spinach to Dogs?

Eating spinach raw can preserve all its nutritional value, and steaming it is also a good option. Eating raw spinach can help remove tartar from a dog's teeth. Give your dog a stem to chew on a few times a week to clean their mouth.

Peppers

Peppers are highly nutritious for both humans and dogs. This vegetable is rich in vitamins and minerals with low calories; it contains four times the amount of vitamin C as an orange. The abundant antioxidants in peppers can improve a dog's cardiovascular system and protect it from free radical damage.

How to Feed Peppers to Dogs?

Always choose ripe, red peppers as they contain more vitamins and minerals than yellow or green ones. To avoid digestive issues, it's best to peel and remove the seeds. The best way to eat peppers is to slightly steam them and mix them with the dog's regular food. This can help improve the digestibility of the food. The intake should be less than 10% of the dog's diet, as moderate consumption is beneficial for dogs.

Carrots

Carrots, this sweet and delicious vegetable, are the best source of vitamins for dogs. They are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin A, which are crucial for promoting overall health in both humans and dogs. Carrots can also promote bone growth and dental health. The abundant essential minerals help promote eye health and reduce radiation damage.

How to Feed Carrots to Dogs?

Medium to large dogs can eat an entire carrot, while small dogs should be given slices to prevent choking. Carrots can be eaten raw or slightly cooked. Cooked carrots retain most of their nutrients, but they are not as beneficial for a dog's teeth as raw carrots.

Broccoli

Broccoli is high in fiber and vitamin C, with low fat and calories. It is also a significant source of potassium, calcium, and iron, which help fight diseases and enhance overall health. Known as the "vegetable role model," broccoli is a great immune booster as long as it's not consumed in excess.

How to Feed Broccoli to Dogs?

It's difficult to digest broccoli raw, so steaming or boiling is a better option. After cooking, simply add the broccoli to your pet's food.

Bananas

Bananas are one of the healthiest foods for dogs, which is why many natural dog foods contain them. Bananas are a natural source of fiber, potassium, copper, manganese, and vitamins B and C. Potassium helps maintain strong bones, vascular elasticity, and health. The other compounds in bananas ensure that dogs have a strong immune system and regular bowel movements.

How to Feed Bananas to Dogs?

Eating bananas directly is a great choice, or you can make small dog treats that will add a unique flavor and rich nutrition. However, be mindful that bananas are high in sugar, so they should be consumed in moderation rather than daily. Medium to large dogs can have a few slices of banana a week, while small dogs should have smaller pieces.

Watermelon

Watermelons are a great choice for summer, as they are packed with water. They are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and betacarotene, as well as potassium, fiber, and folic acid. Watermelons have antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties and are an excellent way to boost vitamin C levels and overall health in senior dogs.

How to Feed Watermelon to Dogs?

Cut the watermelon into thin slices, and be sure to peel it as the rind may contain mold or harmful bacteria. Also, remove the seeds, as they can be hard for a dog's digestive system. After slicing, cut the pieces into smaller pieces. Start with a small amount and observe your dog to ensure they don't experience diarrhea from eating too much.

Brussels Sprouts

Eating a moderate amount of Brussels sprouts is very beneficial for your dog, although they may cause gas. However, they are still a very healthy food for dogs. Brussels sprouts contain antioxidants that are crucial for building a strong immune system; they are also rich in fiber, which aids in digestion. By promoting the production of keratin, they can improve a dog's skin and coat. Some studies have found that certain compounds in Brussels sprouts can prevent certain cancers.

How to Feed Brussels Sprouts to Dogs?

Some people believe that cooked Brussels sprouts are easier on a dog's digestive system, but raw Brussels sprouts are also fine. The portion size depends on how the Brussels sprouts are prepared. If you decide to feed your pet raw Brussels sprouts, give them small pieces and in moderation. Since dogs may need some time to adjust to the taste of raw vegetables, cooked Brussels sprouts can be consumed in larger portions.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is rich in healthy fatty acids that can boost the immune system; it can help control weight, disinfect wounds, and even help with allergies and skin conditions. Surprisingly, studies have shown that coconut oil can also be used to clean teeth and repel fleas and ticks. Adding a little coconut oil to a dog's food can promote brain function and improve cognitive abilities.

How to Feed Coconut Oil to Dogs?

Simply add it to your dog's daily diet. Most dogs enjoy the taste. However, start with a small amount and give your dog time to adjust before gradually increasing the dosage to the optimal amount – one teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight per day. It can also be used topically: take a small amount of coconut oil, warm it with your hands, and apply it to your dog's skin. (It's a natural antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal agent.)