There’s no doubt that meat plays a huge role in a dog's diet and overall health. Muscle meat, organ, and bone provide essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to help dogs thrive. 

Because dogs can get so much of what they need from animal protein, it may be a surprise that dogs are actually omnivores. Several of the nutrients our pups need for a healthy, balanced diet are best found in plants. 

While most commercial dog foods have synthetic vitamins to balance essential nutrients, some have complete and balanced diets without the use of artificial ingredients. Sundays for Dogs, for instance, uses only 100% human-grade, whole food ingredients to balance our recipes without the use of synthetics, just as nature intended. 

What vegetables are good for dogs?

Vegetables are a key part of every healthy dog’s diet. Every pup can also benefit from adding veggies as a dog food topper. Vegetables are one of the easiest ways to boost a dog’s health. 

So, what vegetables are good for dogs? Most safe veggies for dogs might already be sitting in your fridge. Here are what we consider the best vegetables for dogs:

1. Carrots

Can dogs eat carrots? Yes, carrots for dogs are perfectly safe and extra nutritious. This veggie is a great low-calorie snack for dogs. Pups tend to love the satisfying crunch of raw carrots. This veggie can also be steamed and served to your pup. 

Carrots are a natural source of vitamins A, K1, C, B6, B9, and E. All of these nutrients are crucial to a well-functioning immune and nervous system. Serving carrots for dogs is great for your pup’s dental, eye, and digestive health. That’s why carrots are a key ingredient in Sundays’ beef and chicken dog food recipes. 

2. Broccoli 

Both broccoli florets and stems are safe veggies for dogs. You can serve either cooked or raw, however, cooked broccoli is more digestible for your furry friend. This veggie boasts Vitamins K, C, and A while also providing natural fiber and antioxidants. Eating broccoli can help your dog fight inflammation and even lower the risk of cancer and heart disease. 

3. Kale 

What vegetables are good for dogs’ dental health? Kale is a rich source of calcium that can benefit our pup’s bones and teeth. This dark leafy green is thought to help detoxify the liver.

Only serve kale to dogs after it’s been cooked or steamed. Raw kale for dogs can potentially cause gastrointestinal issues because of the high levels of calcium oxalate. Consult your veterinarian before making kale a staple in your pup's diet if they are prone to kidney or bladder stones.

You can always go the safe route and feed your pup dog food with kale. For example, kale is a key ingredient in Sundays’ dog food recipes. 

4. Shiitake Mushrooms

While many consider it a veggie, mushrooms are part of the fungi family. But shiitake mushrooms have a similar nutrient profile to vegetables. This fungi/veggie for dogs offers natural fiber, B vitamins, and zinc. 

Cooked shiitake mushrooms can help your dog’s digestion and enzyme function. That’s one of the reasons this superfood is included in Sundays’ air-dried dog food. 

Never let your dog eat wild mushrooms. You may come across mushrooms on walks or hikes, but these are not safe for your pup to consume. If your dog eats a wild mushroom, call your vet as soon as possible. 

5. Spinach 

Popeye ate his spinach for a reason. This leafy green is packed with powerful vitamins and minerals. It’s a true superfood that offers natural iron, folate, vitamin A, and vitamin K. These nutrients can help your pup’s immune system, brain function, and overall health. 

Steamed spinach is one of the best vegetables for dogs. Compared to other cooking methods, steaming preserves the natural nutrients that spinach offers. Avoid feeding your pup raw spinach as this can cause digestive discomfort in dogs. 

Honorable Mentions

Plenty of human foods are safe and nutritious for dogs. But depending on your beliefs, you might wonder why more veggies aren’t on this list. Technically speaking, anything with seeds is a fruit. That includes foods like pumpkin, zucchini, and tomatoes. 

All of those fruits are super beneficial for dogs. That’s why you’ll find each of these fruits as key ingredients in Sundays’ dog food recipes. 

What pet food brands have the best vegetables for dogs?

Looking to incorporate more veggies into your pup’s diet? Instead of prepping and cooking veggies for dogs, try serving dog food that already includes them. For example, you’ll find spinach, kale, shiitake mushrooms, broccoli, and carrots in Sundays dog food. 

Sundays for Dogs is fully complete and balanced by whole foods. Our recipes don’t require artificial flavors or synthetic supplements. Each ingredient is intended to provide balanced nutrients for your pup. Try Sundays today and save 20% when you subscribe! 

Unsafe Veggies for Dogs

We know what vegetables are good for dogs, but what veggies are bad for them? Avoid feeding your dog nightshade vegetables, including eggplants, peppers, and unripe tomatoes. Herbs like onions, leeks, chives, and garlic can also be toxic to dogs. Contact your vet if your have questions about safe veggies for dogs.