Five Everyday Food to Boost Immune System of Your Dogs

Boosting the immune system is one of the most effective ways to fight against disease in dogs. Just like humans, dogs can build their immunity through various aspects such as a healthy diet, routine exercise and good environmental conditions.

Among these, the most important thing that plays an essential role in dogs’ health is what they eat every day.

Typical commercial food or kibble is far enough to meet your dog’s needs. Fruits and vegetables have amazing nutritional benefits for dogs when you choose them wisely.

So, what foods can boost the immune system of your dog?

(1) Apple

A slice or two of an apple makes a good treat for your dog because apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C as well as fibre. Just remember to remove the seeds, stem and core before you give it to your dog.

(2) Blueberries

Blueberries are a good superfood low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, E, K and antioxidants, which have been shown to improve the health of humans as well as dogs. Antioxidants, like those in blueberries, can help stop free radical cascades and protect against oxidative damage. Blueberries can also decrease chronic inflammation that has anti-inflammation properties.

In addition, blueberries contain two important eye-healthy carotenoids: lutein and zeaxanthin. According to a study by the University of Oklahoma in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, blueberries deliver anthocyanins which is an eye-nourishing phytonutrient known to support night vision. As The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry said, eating blueberries can support vision, reduce eye fatigue and may help prevent retinal atrophy.

(3) Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts, as a cruciferous plant, are a member of the cabbage family. Low in calories and carbohydrates but rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre, brussels sprouts have a lot of health benefits for dogs.

Brussels sprouts are a good source of vitamin C, certain antioxidants like kaempferol and anti-inflammatory compounds. Studies have proven that antioxidants such as kaempferol may reduce the growth of cancer cells. In addition, brussels sprouts contain essential minerals such as potassium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and so on that are important to your dog’s overall health. The amounts of good-quality fibre in brussels sprouts are beneficial to dogs' digestive function and keep their gastrointestinal tract healthy.

 (4) Broccoli

Broccoli has some positive health benefits for dogs because it is rich in vitamins C, K, minerals and fibres. Broccoli contains some essential minerals such as chromium, magnesium, sodium and potassium that can work together to improve dogs' immune systems. Broccoli also has folic acid that helps to produce and maintain healthy cells in particular for pregnant dogs.

 (5) Cranberries

As a superfood, cranberries are well known as an effective cure for urinary tract infections (UTIs). Dogs with UTIs usually attempt to urinate a lot when they go outside or even at home. They may whine when they are urinating because of the pain. Sometimes you might even find blood in a dog’s urine. Cranberries can offer a safe remedy for dogs that relieves the symptoms of UTIs and may also help to prevent potential infections.

Cranberries also contain a lot of important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin K1, which strengthen dogs' heart and bone health.