Boy oh Boy it’s HOT outside and nothin’ says Summer more that a Fresh Peach! At the furSmiths, we normally keep fresh, in-season fruits and veggies in the kitchen year-round. Mom particularly WUVS Fresh Peaches but we don’t get our Peaches Down In Georgia like Justin Bieber (we WUV him)! Mom gets Fresh Organic Peaches from our local Farm Stand, theEcology Center in San Juan Capistrano! This week we received Fresh Peaches, Corn, Green Beans and Parsley! We’re ready to start munching so back to our dying question…Can a Dog Eat Peaches?
The answer is YES and NO! Let’s clarify. Most consumer fruits and vegetables are treated with pesticides which are Toxic to pets. Whenever possible, buy Organic Fruits and Veggies with thinner peels and gently wash them before preparing for your pet. Pesticides are such a concern for both humans and pets in fact that the EWG created the Dirty Dozen and the Clean 15 lists so you can prioritize which fruits and veggies you SHOULD be buying Organic overall.
Can Dogs Eat Peaches that are Organic?
The answer is YES! Fresh, Organic Peaches have Vitamin A and healthy fiber and are safe for dogs in small, diced amounts! (Per the standard guidelines, human food “treats” should only make up 10% or less than your dog’s normal diet to prevent stomach irritation, possible diarrhea, etc).
Can Dogs Eat Peaches that are Canned or Preserved?
Canned and Preserved Peaches contain lots of sugar or artificial sweeteners and preservatives which could make your dog seriously ill. Canned and Preserved Peaches are NOT safe for your dog to eat!
Also, do NOT allow your dog to eat the peach pit which is also called the “stone”. It’s outer texture is rough and could harm the intestinal lining plus it is also so large that it could be a choke hazard or create an intestinal blockage. According to the AKC, the Peach Pit or “Stone” also contains a sugar-cyanide compound called amygdalin which is toxic to Dogs in large amounts.
Peach stems and leaves also contain cyanide so keep peach pits, stems and leaves away from your dog!
In summary, YES, Dogs CAN Eat Fresh Peaches if you follow a few guidelines…ONLY the delicious inside flesh of a fresh, organic, in-season peach is safe for your dog in diced, small servings!
Can Dogs Eat Corn Off the Cob?
No Summer or BBQ is complete without some Corn on the Cob, wouldn’t you agree? Corn is In-Season and we received some beautiful ears of corn in our delivery as well but, Can Dogs Eat Corn off the Cob? The answer is YES! Dogs CAN eat small amounts or Corn Off the Cob! (Don’t forget the “less that 10% rule” mentioned above for total human food “treats” vs your Dog’s normal diet).
Organic, non-GMO Corn is a source of protein, carbohydrates, linoleic acid, and antioxidants for both humans and Dogs! So, slice off a sliver of fresh corn from the cob before you add any butter, seasonings, etc., and let your Dog taste some Summer Corn with you!
Can Dogs Eat Corn Cobs?
Is Corn on the Cob dangerous for Dogs? While Corn Kernels are Safe and Delicious for Dogs, Corn Cobs are a huge choke and intestinal blockage risk for all size dogs. Even though Corn Cobs seem difficult to eat, given enough time, your dog could bite off a section and become seriously ill.
Corn Husks are also in the “do not feed” realm. They provide no nutritional value and can create intestinal irritation and blockage.
What If My Dog Ate a Corn Cob?
If you suspect your Dog Ate a Corn Cob, first, try to determine if this is true. When you determine that your dog DID eat part or all of a corn cob, contact your vet or an emergency vet for advice and direction. If your Dog shows any sign of dehydration, lethargy, reduced activity, repeated vomiting, loss of appetite or diarrhea, get them to a vet immediately.
Can Dogs Eat Cucumbers Without Worry?
Another Hydrating Summer Veggie is Cucumber! Cucumbers are full of antioxidants: Vitamins K, C, B1, Potassium, Copper, Magnesium and Biotin. Cucumbers also have anti-inflammatory properties, are hydrating, low in calories and may prevent cancer! So, Can Dogs Eat Cucumbers?
According to Dogs Naturally Magazine, YES! Dogs CAN Eat Organic, Diced Cucumber! Cucumbers can be a great snack for your dog and are especially good for overweight dogs as they are primarily water!
Warning! NEVER serve your dog a whole cucumber as they could bite off a large piece and choke or get an intestinal blockage.
Can Dogs Eat the Skin of a Cucumber?
The “Skin” or the Peel of Cucumbers are Safe for Dogs providing you buy Organic Cucumbers. Pesticides and Toxins in non-organic cucumbers can make your dog seriously ill. Be sure to dice up a washed, organic cumber with the peel on and serve some to your dog and enjoy some as a snack! Try dicing up a small amount of cucumber and add to your dog’s meal as a healthy, low calorie “filler”. If your dog really loves cucumber, add some diced pieces to an extra water bowl for a hydrating, delicious drink!
Can Dogs Eat Fresh Green Beans?
Green Beans are low in calories, high in fiber, low in sugar and full of antioxidants. ALL types of green beans are safe for dogs to eat, as long as they are plain! Serve your dog plain, chopped organic, fresh or frozen green beans raw, steamed or roasted! (We add a touch of olive oil and turmeric to our roasted veggies and they are super delicious! Ask your Vet if this is ok for your Dog)!
Can Green Beans Upset a Dog’s Stomach?
As with all new human foods, start with small quantities to make sure green beans agree with your dog’s system. Green Beans can be a healthy weight loss snack and food topper if your dog doesn’t react to them!
How Much Green Beans Can I Give My Dog?
Remember to always stick to the less that 10% total human food vs normal dog meal rule described above.
Can Dogs Eat Parsley?
While Parsley is often used as a breath freshener in dog dental treat, it’s ONLY safe for your dog to eat curly-leafed Parsley! Italian or Spring parsley can be Toxic to dogs! Parsley is also a diuretic for people and pets so that’s another concern.
So, we say SKIP Parsley (unless it’s in a trusted store bought dog treat) as there are several health concerns if you accidentally serve a toxic variety.
Want More Fruit, Veggie and Other Food Safety Guidance for your Dog?
Check out our other blog posts for the scoop!
Can Dogs Eat Blackberries In Season? (Includes Strawberries, Radish and Squash)
Can Dogs Eat Lettuce and Arugula? (Includes Broccoli, Leeks (Onion & Garlic Family), Citrus, Carrots and Celery Leaf
Can Dogs Eat Peppers? (Covers Hot Peppers and Bell Peppers)
Is Stevia Safe for Dogs? (Includes Sugar, Sweeteners and Artificial Sweeteners)