If you’ve ever noticed the sheer joy on your Border Terrier’s face when you unearth a tennis ball from your pocket, that same joy (well, almost) could appear as you serve them a piece of their favorite fruit! Yes, you heard it right! Like us, our four-legged companions also enjoy the delicacy of fruits. But what fruit is top of the list for Border Terriers?
Surprising as it may be, Border Terriers share a similar love for one fruit that humans do – apples. Delightful, crunchy, juicy apples are not only a mouth-watering snack for us humans but also go down an absolute treat with the breed, of course within moderation.
Originally bred for hunting foxes and rodents, this spunky, energetic breed is known for its lively spirit and, well, a good appetite! Besides their usual kibble, adding some fruits here and there as treats can supply crucial vitamins, making your pup even healthier. However, not all fruits are created equal in a dog’s world.
Let’s sink our teeth into the world of fruits for Border Terriers.
The delightful crunch of an apple amongst the stillness can even tempt the pickiest eater. Apples are packed to the brim with vitamin A and C, which are great for your dog’s skin and coat. Besides, they are an excellent source of dietary fiber, beneficial for their digestion. Especially for teething puppies, a frozen apple spear can work wonders as a soother!
However, remember to remove the seeds and the core before letting your pup munch on this crunchy delight as they contain small quantities of cyanide, which can be harmful. Likewise, be cautious not to let your Border Terrier overindulge as the high-sugar content, even though naturally occurring, may result in unwanted weight gain.
Other fruits appreciated by Border Terriers include bananas and blueberries. Bananas are like healthy, natural candy to them. Chock full of nutrients like potassium, fiber, and vitamins, bananas, when fed in moderation, can supplement your Border Terrier’s diet wonderfully. It can also act as a healthy alternative to fatty, store-bought treats.
Blueberries, on the other hand, are tiny powerhouses wielding a massive health kick. Serving your Border Terrier a handful of blueberries can be likened to giving them a superhero cape! They are bursting with antioxidants, beneficial for their immune system. However, like all fruits, because of the high sugar content, it’s important to ensure portions remain moderate – think of them as a treat rather than meal replacements.
Despite the many fruits that a Border Terrier can enjoy, there are a few that should be avoided, like grapes and raisins. These are known to cause kidney failure in dogs and should never be offered, even in small amounts. Also, citrus fruits like lemons and oranges should be served sparingly or avoided, as their acidity can upset your dog’s stomach.
Also, steer clear of avocados as they contain persin, a toxin harmful to dogs, and cherries because of their small pits that can cause choking hazards and their traces of cyanide.
In conclusion, while apples seem to reign supreme in Border Terrier’s fruit hierarchy, many other fruits such as bananas and blueberries have proven to be both tasty and nutritious additions to your dog’s diet. However, it is crucial to practice moderation and always remove seeds, pits, and stems to ensure their safety.
Think of fruit as a healthy supplement or a tasty treat alternative for your Border Terrier, not a main course. Also, remember to introduce new foods gradually to monitor any adverse reactions. Every pooch is an individual and can have specific preferences and tolerance levels.
One thing’s for sure, incorporating suitable fruits into your Border Terrier’s diet brings a change from their everyday kibble, adds nutritional variety, and not forgetting, a wag to their tail. So, next time you reach for an apple in your fruit basket, consider slicing a piece or two for your tail-wagging friend by your side. Trust me; they’ll love you even more for it!