A dog’s health first and foremost begins with their diet. Much like humans, a dog’s energy, fat and muscle levels are all affected by the food it consumes. Therefore, to keep a dog as healthy as possible, the owner must make a conscious effort to provide healthy nutritious food and treats combined with good exercise and stimulation.

Many inexpensive fruits and vegetables purchased at your everyday grocery store can benefit a dog greatly. These “superfoods” provide ample vitamins and minerals to keep dogs healthy and can be combined as a meal themselves or added to your dog’s normal meal.

Many different types of fruits can be used to make up for the lack of nutrition in many dry dog foods:

	According to The Bark Magazine, “low in calories and high in soluble fiber, pumpkin helps maintain a healthy digestive tract.” Pumpkin is also high in Vitamin C, potassium, calcium and B vitamins, helping to keep a dog’s muscles working well and a shiny and thick coat.
	Blueberries are an excellent snack fruit for active dogs containing fiber and antioxidants. Blueberries help to regulate blood sugar and to maintain healthy brain, heart and digestion functions according to EntirelyPets.com. Too many blueberries at one time, however, can cause digestive issues so it is best to start out by feeding your dog only a few at a time.

There are also many “superfood” vegetables available at local grocery stores safe for canine consumption: 

	Carrots are a great quick snack for canines. Carrots are loaded with vitamins including B vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Vitamin K allowing for more efficient energy production and the necessary ingredients for natural blood clotting to occur. Carrots have been proven to benefit a dog’s eyes, heart, teeth and respiratory system according to EntirelyPets.com.
	Leafy greens like Kale and Spinach are excellent sources of vitamins including iron, calcium and fiber. These vegetables have natural anti-inflammatory properties and can also benefit a dog’s heart, liver and bones. ( The Bark Magazine)

While these superfoods can greatly increase your dog’s health and help to avoid costly medical bills, there are foods that can have the opposite effect if consumed by your dog. For example, avocados, chocolate, grapes/raisins and peaches are all foods that should be strictly avoided as they can cause serious health risks for canines.

With the addition of superfoods to your dog’s diet, he or she will become exponentially healthier and more energetic. Superfoods provide vitamins and nutrients that are mostly omitted in normal dog food and should be considered as an addition to your canine’s normal food regimen or as a stand-alone meal to improve your dog’s health and make them the super dog you know they can be.