To keep pet’s herbivorous or carnivores is a rather lengthy argument. However, a diet devoid of plants completely is a recipe for nutritional disaster.
A dog that does not consume any green foods is more likely to suffer from digestive problems. Dog’s can face mineral deficiencies, and even chronic diseases.
Veterinary nutritionists recommend leafy greens as the healthiest vegetables for a dog. Leafy greens are high in phytonutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
They are frequently found in the healthiest dog food brands. So, when meal prepping for your pup next time, make sure to add a handful of leafy greens.
Leafy greens are high in nutrients that are essential for good health.
For example,
Magnesium, which can be found in some greens, can help support brain and heart health.
Similarly, iron and folic acid helps our dogs by delivering oxygen to the blood for energy and wellness.
Aside from naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, leafy greens are high in soluble fibre. It helps our four-legged friends' digestive health.
Sulphoraphane rich greens like bok- choy and kale helps protect out pets against cancers.
Note though, some leafy greens like spinach are high in oxalic acid that can be harmful to our pets in large quantities. You want to include no more than a handful of greens per day and stick to low oxalic acid greens. Here are some fantastic options.
Bok Choy: This green’s benefits, includes fibre, vitamin A, vitamin C, antioxidants, vitamin K, magnesium, and phosphorous, all of which can benefit your dog. It also has quantum of nutrients like vitamin B6 and folate, which help maintain a healthy heart.
Kale: It is considered as a nutrient-dense leafy green for dogs. The vitamins in kale improve eye and skin health in dogs.
Basil: Basil has antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiviral properties. It prevents cellular damage and has anti-cancer and anti-inflammation properties. Basil has a calming effect and is more effective than most prescription medications for anxiety in dogs.
Leafy greens are essential for your four-legged best friend and can be a good snack or treat for your dog. The best way to cook leafy greens for their dogs is by steaming them. It ensures their nutritional value is preserved, but also destroys any chemical fertilisers that might be present on the greens.
Also, remember that if you intend to feed leafy greens to your dog, cut them into small pieces. It will prevent them from becoming a choking hazard and make them easier to digest.
Finally, remember that all leafy greens should be in moderation. Too much can cause diarrhoea, runny stools, and cause stomach upset. If you are unsure about giving leafy greens to your dog, consult with your veterinarian to see what they recommend.
Trust this helps,