Furparents always want to give the best to their dogs.
But it is also not easy to say NO when a dog asks for treats or begs for food when one is eating lunch or dinner.
So what can one give to a begging dog when most human food are bad for dogs?
Bell pepper, says Alexandra Annastasio in “Can Dogs Eat Bell Peppers?” in the online site of American Kennel Club.
Bell pepper is packed with vitamins, she adds.
“For pet owners, it can be difficult to keep track of which foods are harmful to dogs. For example, can dogs eat bell peppers? In this instance, the answer is yes. Bell peppers pack a punch when it comes to nutritional value for both you and your furry friend,” Annastasio says.
Annastasio notes that Dr. Cathy Fox, a staff doctor at New York City’s Animal Medical Center, said bell pepper is not toxic to dogs and is a healthy alternative snack.
What color is non-toxic and healthy for dogs?
Any color is good for dogs, says Annastasio.
“Any color contains the essential vitamins and nutrients that are beneficial to a dog’s health, although the red type is the most nutritious,” she adds.
“Red bell peppers are the best to feed to your dog because they contain the highest amounts of vitamins and antioxidants,” says Bella Frakes, a dog trainer, and breeder with Mikotusar Kennels and Aviary in Dallas, Texas.
But never give jalapeno or chili pepper.
What are the health benefits of bell pepper?
Peppers are packed with vitamins A, E, B6, and lutein.
They are a good sources of vitamin C and beta-carotene, which are antioxidants important for a dog’s healthy immune system, says Leasa Moltke, a pet nutritionist at a holistic pet food brand Solid Gold Pet.
“Beta carotene can be converted into vitamin A in the body and is important for skin, coat, and eye health,” she adds.
What is the recommended amount?
Bell peppers, just like with humans, should be introduced slowly and in moderation to your dogs to see how he/she will respond.
“Some dogs will be fine with it, and some won’t,” says Dr. Fox.
Fox says a large dog eats less than one-half pepper and a small dog eats less than one-quarter pepper at a time.
Remove the seeds and stems, she says.
More than these amounts might lead to an upset stomach, vomiting, and/or diarrhea.
“As with other vegetable ingestion, you should take care not to overload your pet, because GI upset can occur,” says Dr. Danel Grimmett, a veterinarian with Sunset Veterinary Clinic in Edmond, Okla.
How do you give bell pepper?
Never add salt or pepper as these are not good for dogs, says Fox.
Never put garlic or onions too, Fox adds.
“It’s also important to note that you should never give your pup the spicy varieties, such as jalapeños or Chili peppers, Fox says.
Because the outer skin of a bell pepper can be tough and difficult to chew, you can steam or puree the pepper to make it easier for your dog to consume and digest.
Remember to always consult your veterinarian before giving something new to your dog. DC