Forget whatever thoughts you have about St. Bernards craving endless heaps of meat and doggy treats. Here’s a little known fact: fruits can play a surprisingly prominent role in a St. Bernard’s diet. Yes, you read that right. Fruits.
With their expressive eyes and sweet disposition, St. Bernards steal hearts wherever they roam. These gentle giants are renowned as eager eaters who love to wolf down a meal. As a St. Bernard owner (or potential owner), you may find yourself wondering, “What else can I feed my St. Bernard to ensure a balanced diet? Can fruits be a part of it?”
Yes! Fruits are not just for humans, some of them are perfect for your furry giant too. As nutritious as they are for us, certain fruits are equally beneficial for dogs, including St. Bernards. From supporting digestion to boosting their immune system, fruits are surprisingly beneficial!
But hold your horses (or dogs!) not all fruits are fit for pet consumption. Some can actually be harmful and even fatal to dogs. The trick is to know which fruits are ideal for your giant pup and which ones to steer clear from.
So let’s dive into the realm of fruits and discover the best options for your adorable St. Bernard. But before we dive in too deep, let’s brush up on the basics.
Why Fruit for St.Bernards?
Fruits are packed with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and are low in fat and calories which make them good for St. Bernards. Antioxidants protect cells from harmful byproducts known as free radicals, and fiber aids in digestion. Vitamins are essential for metabolic processes. Some fruits also contain beneficial natural enzymes, and all of these nutritional benefits together boost overall health and immune system function.
Best Fruits for St. Bernards
1. Apples: High in fiber and vitamin C, apples are a great treat for your St. Bernard. They’re perfect for maintaining dental health and freshening breath. Just remember to remove the core and the seeds, as they contain cyanide, which is poisonous to dogs.
2. Blueberries: These are antioxidant powerhouses that contribute to canine heart health. Blueberries can be used as treats for training. They’re small, soft, and most dogs love them!
3. Bananas: Convenient and full of potassium and vitamin C, bananas are also high in sugar, so use them as a special treat rather than a daily snack. Always slice a banana before giving it to your dog so they can digest it more easily.
4. Watermelon: Watermelon contains plenty of water and electrolytes, so it’s an excellent hydrating treat on hot days. Remove the seeds and rind because both can cause intestinal blockage.
5. Pears: Pears are high in fiber and contain a good dose of vitamin C, vitamin K, and copper. Always remove the pit and seeds before feeding pears to your dog.
6. Oranges: Vitamin C-rich oranges are fine for dogs. However, the citric acid can cause stomach upset if eaten in large amounts, so limit this fruit to a treat and not a daily snack.
Now while these fruits present a nutritional feast for your cuddly St. Bernard, there are some fruits you should definitely avoid.
Fruits to Avoid:
1. Grapes and Raisins: These can cause rapid kidney failure in dogs. Never feed your St. Bernard grapes or raisins.
2. Avocado: Rich in fat, avocado is not a healthy choice for dogs. The fruit, pit, and plant are all toxic.
3. Cherries: Pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, a poison, and are especially dangerous.
4. Tomatoes: The green part of the tomato plant is poisonous to dogs. Although ripe tomatoes are generally safe, it’s best to avoid them.
5. Onion and garlic: Although not technically fruits, These vegetables have been proven toxic for dogs and can lead to anemia.
By this time, you’re probably overwhelmed with the wealth of fruity knowledge for your St. Bernard. But remember, even though fruits are beneficial, they are treats and should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake as they are high in sugar, albeit natural.
So now you know, as beneficial as meat is for your St. Bernard, fruits can offer a whole world of good too! Is it time to switch out the meaty treats for some fruity delights? Perhaps a crunchy apple slice or a juicy berry could be the way to your St. Bernard’s heart. After all, variety is the spice – or shall we say, fruit – of life!
The world of pet nutrition can often seem confusing and overwhelming, but with the right knowledge, feeding your furry friend can be an enjoyable and healthful process. Treat your St. Bernard to a fruity fiesta today and watch them wag their tail with happiness. Remember, a healthy St. Bernard is a happy St. Bernard!
So, the next time you go grocery shopping, why not pick up some apples, blueberries, or any other dog-friendly fruit your gentle giant might like? Healthy, delicious, and nutritious, fruits might just be the secret ingredient to your St. Bernard’s long, healthy, and happy life!
