Louie is the first dog I ever owned. So when I got him, I did a lot of research into what dogs can and cannot eat. I still research foods that make healthy alternatives to store-bought treats. Luckily, there are a lot of fruits and vegetables that you can feed your pup. Here is a list of seven fruits and vegetables you can feed your four-legged bestie. They also happen to be some of Louie’s favourite foods.

1. Apples

   Apple slices make great snacks. They are full of nutrients making them healthy treats. Make sure to remove the seeds before feeding them to your dog. They contain chemicals that could be poisonous in large quantities.

2. Carrots

   This is number one on Louie’s list of special treats. Raw or cooked carrots are safe to feed your dog. They are low in calories and packed full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a great alternative to cookie-type treats. I usually cut baby carrots into little pieces and feed them to Louie as a post-walk snack or as a training aid.

3. Sweet Potatoes

   Sweet potatoes make excellent snacks. They are safe and healthy for dogs in moderate amounts. Louie loves dehydrated sweet potatoes as a special snack. They are extremely easy to make. Scrub the sweet potatoes, cut them into then strips, and bake them in the oven at 175 degrees F for three to four hours. Check on them while you cook to ensure they don’t burn. If you need to dehydrate them further, leave them in the oven, but keep checking on them every 15 minutes. Your dog will love these!

4. Watermelon

   Who doesn’t like watermelon? Watermelon is safe for dogs but with a couple of precautions. The seeds can be dangerous because they can cause intestinal blockage. So, make sure to remove them before feeding them to your dog. The rind can also cause an upset stomach. So it’s best not to remove the rind too. Watermelons are 92 percent water making them a great snack for quenching thirst.

5. Blueberries

   I love blueberries and so does Louie. Blueberries are packed full of vitamins, minerals and more. They are also low in calories making them an excellent snack for your dog.

6. Pumpkin

   Pumpkin is great for a pup with an upset stomach or if you want to give your dog a healthy snack. Pumpkin helps with digestion. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals and a good addition to your pet’s diet.

7. Butternut Squash

   This popular fall vegetable also makes a great treat for your dog. But make sure to cook it first as raw butternut squash can be difficult for your dog to digest. Skip the added sugar, salt, and fats when preparing butternut squash for your dog.