Phyronutrient Benefits for Dogs

When we think of dogs in the wild, we don't imagine them nibbling berries off vines or taking bites out of apples. We envision vicious carnivores, ripping flesh off their prey. This idea-- of the dog as a ferocious predator that needs meat for its very survival-- is actually inaccurate. Dogs, like humans, are omnivores. While clearly preferring meat, a dog can actually survive indefinitely on a diet containing only plant-based nutrition. Just like their human companions, dogs tend to not get enough of the plant-based nutrients, or phytonutrients, that they need to truly thrive.

Phytonutrients are important for the well-being of your furry friend. Here are some of the ways that plant-based nutrition benefits your pooch.

Vitamin Source
Phytonutrients are often excellent sources of vitamins that may be lacking in your pet's diet. For example, a class of phytonutrients known as carotenoids act as pro-vitamins. When a dog digests them, his body converts the carotenoids into a usable form of vitamin A. Carotenoids are most notably found in red, yellow, and orange vegetables, such as carrots, melon, tomato, and squash.

Antioxidant Activity
In general, phytonutrients are powerful antioxidants. They help to defend the body against damage from free radicals, which are highly reactive oxygen molecules that can damage cellular health, leading to serious diseases. A diet rich in phytonutrients can help to keep your pooch young and healthy on a microscopic level, which is important to the well-being of his entire body.

Cancer Prevention
For omnivorous animals, science has established that diets including copious amounts of phytonutrients can help to prevent the growth of cancerous cells. The American Cancer Society notes that human and animal tests have found that a diet rich in phytonutrients can prevent cancer and help the body to fight against newly formed cancer cells. By including plenty of veggies in your dog's diet, you might help to minimize his long-term risk of cancer.

Improved Immunity
As a dog ages, his immune system declines tremendously, putting him at a greater risk of developing infectious disease. Phytonutrients can help to keep your dog's immune system strong, especially during his twilight years. According to a study published in The Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, dogs who consume carotenoids have better immunity in old age than their same-age counterparts who don't receive phytonutrients in their diets. The inclusion of plant-based nutrition can keep your dog disease-free even as his natural immunity declines.

Warning
Although the vast majority of plant-based foods are safe and healthy for dogs, some foods that are safe for human beings pose a threat to the health of our canine friends. Grapes and raisins are both unsafe for dogs and can cause serious health problems. Compounds in onions and garlic can destroy a dog's red blood cells. The ASPCA also warns owners not to feed their dogs avocado, macadamia nuts, or any plant containing caffeine.

It's perfectly safe and healthy to give your dog vegetables as treats, according to the ASPCA, but be sure that his diet consists primarily of an AAFCO-tested processed dog food. These, which can and do include plant-based foods, are guaranteed to provide suitable amounts of all nutrients necessary for a dog's health and vitality. Before making any radical changes to your dog's diet, schedule an appointment with his veterinarian to discuss the benefits and risks of a dietary adjustment.