Whether you’re training your pup to become a competitor or you just want to make sure he’s healthy, integrating “superfoods” into his diet is a good start. They have incredible health benefits along with superior nutritional content to most other foods. If you’re not sure how to begin, here’s a quick rundown of some superfoods for your dog:

What is a Superfood?

Foods that have high nutritional content and low caloric value are typically considered superfoods. Although there isn’t a specific ratio to look for, many foods offer a clear advantage when it comes to comparing nutrition and calories. Superfoods for people are not necessarily the same ones that can be given to dogs, however, so we listed some superfoods with your pup in mind below.

Snacking on Carrots

Most dogs loves to chew on bones. The type of bone doesn’t matter to pups as long as they have something to gnaw on. If you’re worried about wasting the potential health benefits, there are perfectly eligible replacements for typical bones out there. For example, carrots can make a great alternative to bones. Most dogs love carrots because of their crunchy and sweet flavor. They also happen to be loaded with vitamins for pups, including Vitamin C, Carotenoids, fiber, magnesium, and potassium.

Fish for Dinner

Believe it or not, fish is a particularly useful superfood for dogs. Salmon, sardines, anchovies, herring, and other oily fish can be a great supplement to your pup’s diet. Abundant with Omega-3 fatty acids, these fish are especially good for dogs with inflammatory issues like arthritis. Not only that, but fish is also great for dogs’ skin and coats.

However, you want to avoid fish with high mercury content, like tuna or swordfish, and avoid any extra seasonings or cooking in too much oil. Plus, you will have to be very careful that there are no fish bones in whatever you give your pup as fish bones are dangerous. Fish bones are small and brittle which means they can easily become lodged in your dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive organs, even piercing the organ wall. Sure, there may be stories of dogs who have ingested fish bones and have been fine, but it’s not worth endangering your pup.

Pumpkins Year-Round

Pumpkins aren’t just for seasonal decoration. Pumpkins are a good source of fiber for pups! They help maintain healthy digestion in dogs while also remaining low in calories and sodium. It is even known to help with treating diarrhea or constipation in dogs.

In addition, pumpkins are also a good source of potassium and Vitamin C, as well as a few other vitamins and minerals. Putting pumpkin in treats or mixing it in chow is a good way to sneak some superfood in your dog’s normal diet.

Just make sure you are using plain pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling often includes xylitol and other things that are toxic foods for dogs.

There are a lot of foods that are harmful to your dog, but there are plenty that are good for your pup too. With these superfoods, you can give your dog a safe, healthy treat they are bound to love!