Steamed vegetables safe?

[shelschrader]

Reading different threads on this site, I am just now learning that what I feed my babes may not be the best. Bruiser gets Eukanuba made for yorkies. Marcus Aurelius is eating Hills puppy small breed. I really thought that I was feeding them better foods and am surprised to find out that's not the truth. I think I want to change Bruiser to Inova EVO reduced fat (as he is my teapot). Does Inova have a puppy food? I noticed the other night that Marcus just loves plain steamed brocoli and carrots (no butter or seasoning). I don't really have the time to change them to a home cooked diet. But is it safe to give them fresh steamed vegetables? I would like to add some vegetables to their diet in addition to their dry kibble, but don't know if it is a good idea. If it is, which are the best vegetables to give and how much? Thanks so much for all of the help in advance. I am learning new things on here everyday and my furbabies thank you all for it.

[Ellie May]

No, those aren't very good foods. Innova is lots better. Steamed broccili and carrots are fine. I wouldn't overdo the broccili since large amounts could be problematic.

[marcerella02]

veggies are GREAT, esp carrotts. Ideally you would like to feed fresh veggies since when you steam them they loose a lot of their nutrients, BUT steamed veggies are better than no veggies at all try cauliflower, peppers, celery...

[Yorkieluv]

If you don't give steamed veggies, then they must be pulverized in order for them to be able to digest them properly Carrots are great! Broccoli, don't overdo...

[Yorkiedaze]

Originally Posted by shelschrader

Reading different threads on this site, I am just now learning that what I feed my babes may not be the best. Bruiser gets Eukanuba made for yorkies. Marcus Aurelius is eating Hills puppy small breed. I really thought that I was feeding them better foods and am surprised to find out that's not the truth. I think I want to change Bruiser to Inova EVO reduced fat (as he is my teapot). Does Inova have a puppy food? I noticed the other night that Marcus just loves plain steamed brocoli and carrots (no butter or seasoning). I don't really have the time to change them to a home cooked diet. But is it safe to give them fresh steamed vegetables? I would like to add some vegetables to their diet in addition to their dry kibble, but don't know if it is a good idea. If it is, which are the best vegetables to give and how much? Thanks so much for all of the help in advance. I am learning new things on here everyday and my furbabies thank you all for it.

I only slightly steam the broccoli and give the carrots raw. Feeding real food is no expensive and is much better than dog food.

[Wylie's Mom]

First, for what reason do you want to give the veggies? I ask bc, within a canine diet, veggies are not even truly needed - so I'm not sure what your goal is in giving them....maybe variety? If it's for variety, there are a bunch you can give. I give green beans to help alkalize the digestive system, but that's about it for veggies.

Feeding fresh is best - but you must pulverize them to aid digestion. Otherwise, steam and puree (or chop).

[shelschrader]

Originally Posted by Wylie's Mom

First, for what reason do you want to give the veggies? I ask bc, within a canine diet, veggies are not even truly needed - so I'm not sure what your goal is in giving them....maybe variety? If it's for variety, there are a bunch you can give. I give green beans to help alkalize the digestive system, but that's about it for veggies.

Feeding fresh is best - but you must pulverize them to aid digestion. Otherwise, steam and puree (or chop).

You are right,I just wanted variety. Hope Marcel is feeling better , thanks!

[Wylie's Mom]

Originally Posted by shelschrader

You are right,I just wanted variety. Hope Marcel is feeling better , thanks!

He's feeling better, you're so sweet! Okay - so variety - zucchini is really good for them, squash, green beans, shredded carrots, tiny bits of asparagus, potatoes (not really a veggie, but they love it). My only advice is to probably add one at a time, wait, see how it goes w/ digestion in case any one veggie causes gastric distress. Keep me posted!

[shelschrader]

I am going to the grocery store later tonight and I think I will start with green beans. I'll keep you posted, thanks!

[MyFairLacy]

Originally Posted by Wylie's Mom

First, for what reason do you want to give the veggies? I ask bc, within a canine diet, veggies are not even truly needed - so I'm not sure what your goal is in giving them....maybe variety? If it's for variety, there are a bunch you can give. I give green beans to help alkalize the digestive system, but that's about it for veggies.

Feeding fresh is best - but you must pulverize them to aid digestion. Otherwise, steam and puree (or chop).

I was going to say the exact same thing. Canines are carnivores and need almost all of their diet to be meat (muscle meat, bones, and organs). Veggies are fine but should only be a small portion of a diet or used as treats. If you're really concerned about giving him a better diet, I'd add better sources of MEAT to his diet and wouldn't be worrying about veggies so much.