Natural, Healthy treats for your dog that are most likely already in your home!? No trip to the pet store required. Many fruits and vegetables make perfect treats for dogs. They are dense in nutrition which makes them great for your dogs health. They are often really convenient because many are standards you probably keep handy for your family anyway. Unlike many dog treats, they are low in calories which is a big plus. This really helps to relieve the challenge that many of us face in striking a good balance between treating our dogs and managing a healthy weight for long and healthy life!

So what are some simple, natural dog treats to use in your routine? Here are some of our favorites at Waggle Mail HQ!

Green Beans

Dogs can eat green beans! Just be sure that cooked green beans and are not seasoned. Plain, please! They’re a great source of fiber.

Bananas

We all know that bananas are super healthy. Most dogs love them too! They are a natural choice that you probably keep handy all the time. Just be sure not to overdo it. Given their high sugar content, it’s best to give bananas to dogs in moderation.

Apples

An apple a day doesn’t necessarily keep the vet away when it comes to dogs. A whole apple would be a bit much for a dog anyway! But they are good for dogs just like they are people! Full of nutrients and fiber, these are great snacks. Just be sure not to let your pup have the seeds or the core.

Green Peas

Frozen or fresh, green peas are good treats, and most dogs love them. Hand your dog a couple as training treats or even put some in their bowl. Easy-peasy!

Carrots

Loaded with beta carotene and other vitamins, carrots are almost guaranteed to be in your kitchen anyway. Why not cut up some bite-sized pieces and use them as a healthy reward? Some dogs can be bad about swallowing without chewing (we’re looking at you, labs and beagles), so if yours is one, be sure that the carrot pieces are an appropriate size.

Watermelon

Just like humans, most dogs love watermelon as a tasty, hydrating, and beneficial snack. Be sure to remove any seeds, and don’t give your dog the rind.

Cooked Sweet Potatoes

Cooked sweet potatoes may not seem to smack of convenience, but since they keep well in the refrigerator, it’s actually really simple to roast up some extra to share during the week with your furry family member. It’s best to keep them plain. Do not give dogs raw potatoes of any kind.

Broccoli

Cruciferous veggies have well-known health benefits, and broccoli is a good choice for pups. Feel free to give them a few small pieces as a treat. These can be raw, roasted, or steamed, just unseasoned please. Like humans, dogs often have an easier time digesting high-fiber foods that have been cooked, but either is safe.

Cooked Squash

Cooked squashes are great natural treats for dogs! And since there are several kinds of squash that are safe for dogs, this is a good option year round. Butternut squash, yellow squash, or zucchini are all great. Even pumpkin! Just be sure to remove seeds, and for the butternut, the rind, as well.

Strawberries

Strawberries are sweet little vitamin C nuggets that dogs love. Like bananas, they are high in sugar, so just keep that in mind when you decide how many to give.

Blueberries

Like strawberries, blueberries are great, healthy, and easy little treats to share with your pup!

You Should Know…

When trying out new treats for your dog, it’s always best to start with small portions, and see how your dog’s GI tract responds.

There are also a number of foods in your kitchen that can be dangerous for dogs to consume. So be careful and do your research before handing anything over to your pup.