As a dog lover, you know your furry friend deserves only the very best. So, it’s definitely not surprising if you’re curious about the nutritional benefits that different fruits can offer your canine buddy. Especially if your bundle of fluffiness is a Keeshond, which are known for their love for snacks!
But hold on, let’s first visit a little-known fact. Did you know, not all fruits are dog-friendly? Yes, that’s right! Some fruits, while delicious and healthy for us humans, might be harmful, even deadly, to our four-legged pals. With that in mind, knowing which fruits are safe and beneficial for your Keeshond will save you from unnecessary panic and frantic vet-visits, not to mention ensuring your beloved pet’s safety and health.
Let’s uncover the magic that fruits can bring to your Keeshond’s overall well-being.
Now, drum roll, please… The best, safest, and most beneficial fruit for your loveable Keeshond is none other than… the apple!
Apples are not only delicious, but they’re also chock-full of nutrients that are beneficial for your four-legged friend. They are high in fiber, which promotes a healthy digestive system, and they are also packed with Vitamins A and C, which can boost your dog’s immune system. An apple a day may keep the doctor away for us humans, and it doesn’t fall far from the tree for our dogs, either.
However, be cautious about the apple seeds and core. Apple seeds contain cyanide, a toxic substance that could harm your Keeshond if it eats them. The core can also become a choking hazard, so it’s best to remove it along with the seeds before giving your furry friend a slice.
“An apple? That’s pretty ordinary,” you may be thinking. While apples are a fantastic choice, let’s explore some more exotic options. Blueberries, for instance, are superfoods both for humans and dogs. They’re packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. They can help fight free radicals in your Keeshond’s body and reduce inflammation. Plus, their small, bite-sized shape makes them an easy-to-give treat.
Another brilliant fruit choice for your Keeshond is the cantaloupe. This melon is packed with vitamins and nutrients, notably beta-carotene, which is converted into Vitamin A in your dog’s body, promoting healthy growth, skin, vision, and immune system. Cantaloupes also help with hydration, as they’re 90% water.
Here’s a tropical twist – pineapples. Apart from being a sweet and juicy treat, they’re full of vitamin C, B6, and folate, all of which contribute to your Keeshond’s well-being. They also contain a special enzyme called bromelain, which assists in protein digestion.
It’s not a complete fruit list without the humble banana. Bananas are low in calories and high in potassium, vitamin C, fiber, and vitamin B6 which helps your Keeshond’s body produce red blood cells. However, due to their high sugar content, bananas should be fed in moderation only. Consider them more of a treat than a staple.
Let’s now swing over to some fruits your Keeshond should be kept far, far away from. Grapes (and raisins) are a strict no-no. They can cause rapid kidney failure in dogs. Next on the danger list are cherries. The pits contain cyanide, which can cause poisoning. Other harmful fruits include citrus (the oils can cause irritation, and the seeds can cause digestive issues) and avocados (which contain persin, a substance that can cause diarrhea and vomiting).
In the end, it’s always better to be cautiously innovative. Whenever you consider introducing a new fruit to your Keeshond’s diet, a quick consultation with your vet wouldn’t hurt.
There you have it: a colorful array of fruits your Keeshond will not only enjoy but also benefit from. Remember, while fruits are fantastic and filled with key nutrients, they should never replace a balanced, complete diet. They are treats, and like all other treats, they should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. So, keep that in mind the next time you reach for those apple slices or blueberries, and both you and your Keeshond can enjoy a fruitful, healthful, and beautiful life together.
