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When it comes to feeding our pups right, our minds often turn to meat. And meat is fantastic for your Jack. In fact, growing pups need a diet with around 22 percent protein (adults can get away with 18 percent) in order to keep that muscular Jack Russell figure.
But dogs aren’t exclusively carnivores. They’re actually omnivores, which means that they get their nutrition from other sources as well as meat.
And, just like us, they need their veg.
Yes, you heard that right.
Vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, minerals, and more. And if you do it right, you can make it tasty for them as well.
But you can’t just give them any old veg.
What can you feed them? Here are a few ideas.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes have a taste that a lot of dogs love. They’re also a good source of fiber, Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Just make sure to always cook them. Never serve sweet potatoes raw.
Zucchini
The humble zuke packs a nutritional punch. Inside that pretty green casing, you’ll find Vitamin A, Vitamin K, protein, lots of fiber, Vitamin C, niacin, thiamin, Vitamin B6 and more.
Come to think of it, zukes are pretty good for people, too.
Peas
Peas have lots of fiber, and this can help keep your dog’s digestive system moving along strong. They also have Vitamin K, Vitamin C, protein, Vitamin A, and folates.
Green Beans
A lot of dogs enjoy green beans, and they’re healthy, too! In addition, you get protein, fiber, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, Vitamin B6, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, motassium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate and Manganese.
Carrots
If your dog has a sweet tooth, carrots are a nice, healthy treat. High in fiber and Vitamin A, they also give you potassium, vitamin K, vitamin C, niacin and Vitamin B6.
Cucumber
What’s better on a hot day than some cool cucumber? It’s packed with water (good for the digestion) and ever-so-slightly sweet. You also get a nice blast of antioxidants: Vitamins A, C, and K.
Asparagus
Asparagus is a tasty, high-fiber treat that’s also rich in vitamins and minerals. It’s an excellent source of Vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, and K. You also get folate, iron, copper, fiber, manganese
Broccoli
Broccoli is
Never feed your Jack these!
The following veg are poisonous for dogs. Never feed them these!
- Onions
- Leeks
- Raw garlic
- Chives
- Raw and green potatoes
- Tomatoes
When in doubt, check with your vet!
A Few Words of Caution
It’s important to check with your vet before making any significant changes to your pet’s diet. Some vegetables may interact negatively with certain medications or cause problems for dogs with certain medical conditions.
When you can, choose fresh or frozen veg. If you’re using canned vegetables, make sure that they are packed in water and labeled sodium-free. Alternately, you can rinse them.
Always wash the vegetables and remove all pits and seeds. Some seeds, like apple seeds and the seeds of bell peppers can be toxic for animals.
Also, if your dog is new to veg, introduce them slowly. A big change in diet can cause digestive problems. Likewise, a huge, sudden introduction of vegetables can give them an upset tummy.
Finally, beware of too much of a good thing. Vet Street recommends that fruits and vegetables make up a maximum of ten percent of your dog’s daily diet.
Veg Out With Your Jack
Your JRT isn’t the only one who can benefit from eating their daily veg. While you’re at it, why not make a portion for yourself?
Does your Jack have any favorite veg? Tell us about it in the comments!
Featured Image CC0 by Jill111, via Pixabay.
