Many pet parents love sharing snacks with their dogs—and it’s easy to see why! Those hopeful eyes are hard to resist. The good news is that many fruits and vegetables can make safe, healthy treats for your dog when given in moderation. At Benson View Veterinary Hospital, we love helping pet owners choose nutritious options that support their pets’ well-being.

Before we dig in, remember: always introduce new foods slowly, offer them in small amounts, and remove any pits, seeds, or rinds. If your dog has health issues such as diabetes, pancreatitis, or food allergies, check with your veterinarian before offering new foods.

Dog-Friendly Fruits

🍎 Apples – Crunchy and full of vitamins A and C. Be sure to remove the core and seeds before serving.

🍌 Bananas – A great source of potassium and fiber. They’re sweet, so treat them like dessert—occasional, not daily.

🍉 Watermelon – Hydrating and refreshing on a hot day. Remove all seeds and rind before offering.

🍓 Strawberries, Blueberries, and Raspberries – Packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. Serve a few berries as a tasty low-calorie reward.

🍐 Pears – Another high-fiber option that’s gentle on most stomachs. Avoid the seeds and core.

🍊 Oranges and Mandarin slices – Small pieces can be safe for most dogs, but some dogs dislike the citrus scent.

🍍 Pineapple – Sweet, tropical, and rich in nutrients—but only small amounts! It’s high in natural sugar.

Dog-Friendly Vegetables

🥕 Carrots – Crunchy, low-calorie snacks that make great training treats.

🥦 Broccoli – A nutrient-rich superfood. Offer small pieces only, as too much can cause gas.

🥬 Green beans – A filling, fiber-rich treat. Serve fresh, steamed, or frozen (plain, never seasoned).

🥒 Cucumber – Refreshing, hydrating, and low in calories—perfect for hot days or weight-conscious pups.

🥔 Sweet potato – A favorite for many dogs! Cooked and mashed or dehydrated into chewy treats, it’s packed with vitamins and fiber.

🌽 Peas – Green peas (fresh, frozen, or thawed) are safe and high in protein. Avoid canned peas with added salt.

Fruits and Veggies to Avoid

Some foods that are healthy for people can be toxic to dogs. Never feed:

🚫 Grapes or raisins
🚫 Onions, garlic, leeks, or chives
🚫 Avocado
🚫 Cherry pits or apple seeds
🚫 Mushrooms (unless store-bought varieties and confirmed safe)

Even small amounts of these can cause serious health problems.

Serving Tips

• Wash all produce thoroughly.
• Cut into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking.
• Keep portions small—treats should make up less than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
• Offer one new food at a time so you can monitor for any signs of stomach upset or allergies.

Talk to Your Vet First

Every dog is unique. Age, size, health conditions, and diet can all affect what’s safe or beneficial. If you’re unsure whether a particular fruit or vegetable is right for your dog, the Benson View Veterinary Hospital team is always happy to help.

Healthy treats = happy pets!
By choosing safe fruits and veggies, you’re giving your dog natural nutrition and variety while supporting a healthy weight and lifestyle.

If you’d like personalized diet advice or have questions about your pet’s nutrition, contact Benson View Veterinary Hospital today—we’re here to help your best friend live their healthiest life.