Fresh, crisp peppers are one of the most versatile and nutritional ingredients around, making a regular appearance on dinner tables in homes around the world. But can dogs eat peppers, or are peppers toxic to dogs?
Can dogs eat peppers?
Yes, dogs can eat peppers, and peppers are one of the safest and most nutritious treats you can feed to your canine buddy! Most dogs enjoy the flavor of peppers and will enjoy a slice or two of this versatile vegetable as a snack.
Peppers are packed full of health benefits and, when prepared correctly, are a tasty and refreshing treat for your dog.
What are the health benefits of peppers?
Peppers are highly nutritious and are one of the most beneficial vegetables you could feed to your dog. All types of salad peppers are good for dogs, but red peppers are the most beneficial.
Red, yellow, and orange peppers are high in beta-carotene and vitamin C, both of which have immune-boosting antioxidant properties. These can be particularly beneficial for older dogs or those that suffer from aching bones and joints.
All types of salad peppers are high in vitamins A, B6, E, and lutein, which are beneficial for good eyesight and skin and coat health.
Peppers contain balanced levels of fiber and natural sugars and will help to satisfy hunger whilst maintaining healthy body weight. They make a highly-nutritious alternative to commercially-produced dog treats.
What should I be aware of when offering peppers to my dog?
Occasionally, some dogs will experience digestive problems such as bloating when they eat peppers for the first time. To reduce the risk of this, start with just a small amount of pepper.
If your dog eats this without any problems, you can gradually increase the amount you feed each time. Although peppers are very healthy for dogs, they should never make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily food intake.
Dogs can eat either raw or cooked peppers, but never those that have been seasoned with salt, oil, onion, or garlic. The hard central stem and seeds cannot be digested by dogs and should be removed.
The skin of peppers can be eaten by dogs, but they may find it difficult to chew. Slice pepper into cubes or strips to prevent your dog from choking.
Never feed spicy chili peppers to dogs, as they contain a compound called capsaicin that can cause unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms in dogs.
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