Did you know a beagle’s sense of smell is 1,000 times stronger than a human’s? That’s right! These nose-driven dogs are always on the hunt for a tasty treat. You may think, “Sure, my beagle loves any food. But what’s best for them?” Well, surprisingly, the answer lies in the fruit bowl!
FRUIT FOR A BEAGLE?
That’s right! Those sweet, juicy apples you nabbed from the market, the bright bananas on your counter, even the pint of strawberries in your fridge — they’re all potentially a part of keeping your beagle happy and healthy. But like everything in life, moderation is key. Now let’s deep-dive into our picnic basket and explore which fruits are best for your four-legged friend.
APPLE OF THEIR EYE
Believe it or not, apples can be a great treat for your beagle, mainly due to their high fiber and low-fat content. They are packed with vitamins A and C and are an excellent source of fiber that aids digestion. Plus, a crisp, juicy apple can freshen your dog’s breath–a wonderful bonus! However, ensure you remove the seeds before treating your beagle to an apple, as they can be potentially harmful if ingested in excessive quantities.
BEAUTY IN BANANAS
Think bananas are only for monkeys and humans? Think again! Bananas are a fantastic source of potassium and vitamin C, both helping to strengthen your fluffy friend’s immune system. They also have high fiber content, which could help dogs with any gastrointestinal problems. While bananas are beneficial, they should not make up more than 10% of your beagle’s diet due to their high sugar content.
STRAWBERRIES, A SUMMER TREAT
Strawberries are a great low-calorie treat for beagles. They’re high in fiber and are a good source of vitamin C. But maybe even more importantly, strawberries also contain an enzyme that helps whiten your beagle’s teeth! Make sure to cut them into pieces to prevent choking or other digestion problems.
ORANGE YOU GLAD?
Sources of good fiber, oranges are high in vitamin C, which can benefit your pooch in several ways, including helping the body absorb iron and boosting your beagle’s immune system. However, orange’s citrusy zing may not appeal to every beagle, and its high sugar content means it should only be an occasional treat.
PEAR-FECTLY HEALTHY
Pears can be nutritious for Beagles as they are high in Vitamins A and C and filled with dietary fibers. They help keep the immune system robust and support bone growth. But remember, as with apples, never allow your beagle to eat the seeds. They contain traces of cyanide, which can be harmful or even fatal to dogs in large quantities.
BERRIES — A BASKET OF GOODIES
Blueberries, raspberries and cranberries are packed with antioxidants that are good for a beagle’s overall health. They can improve a dog’s cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and even slow aging. These ‘superberries’ should be given in moderate quantities because of their high sugar content.
ONE TO AVOID: GRAPES
While we’re on the topic, it’s vital to note one fruit you should never, under any circumstances, feed your beagle (or any dog): grapes. Both grapes and their dried variant, raisins, are highly toxic to dogs and may cause kidney failure. Even a small amount can be fatal.
WHEN FRUIT MEETS PAWS
While fruits can be a tasty treat for your beagle, always remember to wash them thoroughly to remove any pesticides. It’s also essential you introduce any new food to your pup gradually to avoid possible stomach upsets.
Serving fruits to your beagle can be a fun and rewarding experience. It can be amusing watching their reactions as they taste new flavors, and you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping to keep them healthy.
So, next time your beagle looks longingly at your fruit bowl, set aside a bite-sized piece for him. Trust us, your dog will thank you for it!
