Can I give my dog bell peppers?
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If your family often eats bell peppers you may wonder if they’re appropriate for dogs. Can canines consume capsicum? Whether you have the red, green, yellow or orange variety we’ll provide answers.
These rainbow-colored veggies are, of course, healthy and this generally applies to dogs as well. There are, however, some considerations to take into account before serving bell peppers to a pet pooch.
People normally eat these crunchy and light vegetables as part of a recipe. It would be best if your dog chowed down on plain bell peppers. Learn more about sharing this vegetable!
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Can I Give My Dog a Bell Pepper? Answer: Yes, red is best
They are low in calories and high in valuable nutrients that pets can benefit from on occasion.
Bell peppers are one of the better treat choices for dogs. Of course, not all types of peppers are suitable and even mildly spicy foods should be off limits to your dog. A bell pepper, on the other hand, is an appropriate and even healthy option for canines when served in moderation. Feed them plain to keep your pet’s diet simple.
Interestingly, the color you provide actually matters. Let’s dig into the details a bit more for your dog’s sake!
Consider Capsicum Colors
Fully ripened bell peppers are best. The healthiest choice for dogs are the red variety. Compared to green or yellow, red bell peppers have more carotenoid phytonutrients, beta-carotene, anti-oxidants and high levels of vitamins A & C.
These are significant nutrients and there’s no reason to believe that dogs cannot also benefit. Bell peppers are known to reduce inflammation which could be very useful for older arthritic dogs.
Never Spicy Peppers
It’s important not to confuse bell peppers, which aren’t spicy, with pepperoni or chili or any type of hot pepper. Many vegetables in this family are off limits to pet dogs.
It’s confusing since red is associated with spiciness, yet the reddish bell pepper is healthiest and most appropriate for dogs. Of course, too much people food is a bad thing and that includes bell peppers.
Some Surprising Benefits
There’s evidence that bell peppers reduce flatulence. If your dog is quite gassy you may get relief by providing this healthy food. It’s worth a shot! It’s also known to be good for constipation and overall gastrointestinal health.
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This food improves circulation which you rarely see as a dietary perk. Bell peppers may even help prevent some types of cancer! So, at least in theory, your dog can occasionally share in this tasty and crunchy treat.
A Good Snack Option
There’s little doubt that bell peppers are an excellent idea for a dog treat. As we’ve detailed, they contain lots of nutrients but another important factor is the fact that bell peppers are low in calories and fat.
So, this veggie won’t crowd out your dog’s regular chow. On the contrary, bell peppers improve metabolism by reducing triglyceride levels. If you have an overweight dog, you’re on the right track with this feeding choice!
Conclusion on Bell Peppers
You can feed your dog bell peppers of any color. The healthiest is red since they’re ripened and contain extra nutrition. Bell peppers are low in calories and fat which is ideal for dogs. The antioxidants, beta-carotene and other vitamins are nutritionally beneficial. Serve bell peppers plain or mixed in with dog food. We think this veggie is a great canine treat. Just be sure your peppers aren’t spicy.