Bullmastiffs are a magnificent breed, aren’t they? Their playful, affectionate nature, coupled with their imposing appearance, make them a delightful addition to any family. But care and upkeep of these majestic dogs require more than just regular walks and comfy beds. One area often overlooked is diet, and in particular, fruits.
You just read that right! Fruits don’t only belong in your fruit salad or smoothie, they also make delicious and healthy snacks for your bullmastiff.
Surprised? While dogs and fruits might seem like an odd combination, certain fruits are not only safe for your pet to consume, but they also provide key nutrients that can enhance your bullmastiff’s overall health.
Which fruit you ask? Well, drumroll please – apples! Yes, indeed, apples are the gold standard when it comes to fruits beneficial for your bullmastiff. And here’s why!
Get ready for a fascinating journey through the world of apples, bullmastiffs, their mutual love affair, and all the terrific benefits that can come from it!
Apples are rich sources of fiber, which is crucial for a bullmastiff’s digestive health. Like humans, dogs struggle with irregular bowel movements and constipation, problems that an apple a day keeps at bay! An apple provides around 4.4 grams of dietary fiber, which helps keep your dog’s digestive system running smoothly. Besides that, the high fiber content can help keep your Bullmastiff feel fuller for longer, thus preventing obesity that can be a serious problem in large breeds.
Crunching down on apples is also a great way to give your bullmastiff’s dental health an upper hand. The process naturally cleans your dog’s teeth and helps freshen their breath. Say goodbye to expensive dog dental chews, an apple slice does the trick!
Another reason that apples are your bullmastiff’s superfood is their high vitamin A and C content. A tried and true immune system booster, vitamin C is essential to keeping your dog healthy and happy. Apples also carry a good dose of vitamin A, essential for supporting healthy skin, coat, and eyesight in dogs.
Moreover, apples contain a useful dose of antioxidants, like quercetin, which can help to protect your bullmastiff’s cells against oxidative damage. This reduces the risk of developing degenerative diseases like cancer or arthritis, particularly common in older dogs. And that’s not just speculations and say-so! A 2004 study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research found that quercetin could help reduce inflammation in dogs.
Apples are a low-protein, low-fat, and low-calorie snack, which are all positives for your bullmastiff. They can enjoy the crispy treats either raw or baked into dog treats.
But wait – before you gallop off to raid your fruit bowl and start feeding your bullmastiff apples in wholesale, remember moderation is key! Too much of anything, even something as healthy as an apple, can have adverse effects. Starting with a few slices is a safe way to introduce this crunchy fruit into your bullmastiff’s diet.
Do remember, however, to remove the seeds and core before feeding it to your bullmastiff. Why’s that? Well, the seeds can be a potential choking hazard. Additionally, they contain a compound called amygdalin which is harmful if ingested in large quantities.
In a nutshell (or apple skin!), while Bullmastiffs, like all dogs, are predominantly meat-eaters, supplementing their diet with selected fruits like apples can provide them with crucial nutrients that contribute to their overall health and well-being.
We’ve come a long way, haven’t we? From the surprise revelation of fruits in a bullmastiff’s diet to understanding the magical benefits of apples, it’s been a wild ride, huh?
So the next time you’re munching on an apple, go ahead and toss a slice or two to your four-legged pal. After all, an apple a day keeps not only the doctor away, but the vet too!
