Superfoods for Dogs - What to Add to Your Dog's Diet
March 11, 2025 | By David Jackson
When it comes to human nutrition, the term "superfoods" has become something of a badge of honour.
It was originally coined in the early 20th century during World War I when bananas were hailed by nutritionists for their impressive nutrient content, easy digestibility, natural "packaging," and versatility.
Since then, countless foods have been elevated to superfood status, so it's really no surprise why so many dog owners are now exploring how these superfoods can benefit their beloved pets.
After all, we put a lot of thought into what we eat - so why shouldn't we do the same for our dogs?
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The Concept of Superfoods for Dogs
While regular kibble, raw or wet dog food will provide the nutritional basics for your dog, adding superfoods can seriously level up your dog's diet.
Just think of it as a canine health boost - delicious, natural ingredients packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and essential nutrients that support everything from digestion to joint health.
So, without further ado, here are some of the best superfoods for your dog and why they're certain to work wonders.
Top Superfoods to Include in Your Dog's Diet
The Benefit of Pumpkin for Dogs
 We've spoken about pumpkin before, but we're bringing it back up again, because when it comes to superfoods for your dog, pumpkin is absolutely fantastic!
You see, pumpkin is brimming with fibre and beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A - essential for vision, immune function, and healthy skin.
Plus, it's high fibre content makes it perfect for regulating your dog's digestion - whether your pup is experiencing constipation or diarrhoea.
How to Serve Pumpkin to Your Dog
You could mix a spoonful of canned, unsweetened pumpkin into your dog's kibble for a nutritious addition, freeze into cubes for a refreshing treat on hot days, or use as a binding ingredient in homemade dog treats!
And the best part?
Making your own pumpkin puree for all the above is super simple...
Pumpkin Portion Guide
For small dogs, 1 teaspoon would be enough. If your dog is medium to large, 1 tablespoon will do the trick.
Blueberry Benefits for Dogs
Blueberries are a small but mighty superfood packed with antioxidants, fibre, and essential vitamins C and K.
These little berries are excellent for supporting brain health, reducing inflammation, and boosting heart function.
The high levels of anthocyanins help combat free radicals, which will help keep your dog's cells healthy and strong.
How to Serve Blueberries to Your Dog
Serving blueberries to your dog really couldn't be easier. Simply toss a few fresh or frozen blueberries to your dog as a snack, sprinkle them over your dog's food for an added burst of nutrition or even mash and mix into plain, unsweetened yoghurt for a delicious homemade treat!
Blueberry Portion Guide
It recommended that small dogs have roughly 3-5 berries, whereas a small handful would be plenty for medium to large dogs.
Salmon for Dogs
 Salmon is by far one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids for your dog, which help reduce inflammation, improve skin and coat health, and support brain function.
If your dog suffers from dry, itchy skin or joint stiffness, salmon could be a real game-changer.
How to Serve Salmon to Your Dog
There are a number of ways you can serve salmon to your dog. For a quick and convenient omega-3 boost, you can't beat adding a couple of pumps of salmon oil to their meals.
You could also offer them some fresh boneless salmon as a terrific topper, but if you can't get your hands on fresh, canned salmon would also do the trick, just make sure it's in water, not brine.
Salmon Portion Guide
Some dogs love salmon, some dogs don't really get it, but if you do choose to try your pup on some salmon it's recommended you serve no more than 1 ounce per meal for small dogs, and 2-3 ounces per meal for medium to large dogs.
Sweet Potatoes for Dogs
Sweet potatoes are packed with fibre, vitamin A, and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for digestive health, immune support, and maintaining steady energy levels in your dog.
How to Serve Sweet Potato to Your Dog
Like pumpkin, you can bake, mash, and mix this nutrient dense food into your dog's regular meals or blend into dog-friendly biscuits for a superfood dog treat.
Sweet Potato Portion Guide
1 tablespoon for small dogs would be plenty, whereas for medium to large dogs, you could serve up to 3 tablespoons of sweet potato per meal.
The Goodness of Spinach for Your Dog
 Spinach is crammed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. It supports your dog's heart health, strengthens bones, and provides essential nutrients that contribute to overall vitality.
How to Serve Spinach to Your Dog
It's best to lightly steam and mix spinach into your dog's meals as steaming improves nutrient absorption.
Or you can simply chop it finely and sprinkle it on top for a quick boost.
Spinach Portion Guide
You don't need a lot of spinach for your dog to reap the rewards, just 1 teaspoon would be enough for small dogs and 1 tablespoon for medium to large dogs!
How to Incorporate Superfoods into Your Dog's Diet
Adding superfoods to your dog's meals doesn't have to be complicated. You also don't need a huge amount of them for your dog the benefit! However, as a rule of thumb, it's always best to...
- • Start Slowly - Introduce one new food at a time to monitor for any allergies or sensitivities. If your dog shows any signs of digestive upset, stop immediately.
- • Mix into Meals - Blend these superfoods into your dog's kibble, wet food, or raw meals for a nutritional upgrade.
- • Use as Dog Treats - Many of these superfoods make great natural dog treats with no artificial additives.
- • Rotate for Variety - Different superfoods provide different benefits, so switch it up!
Superfood Precautions and Considerations
While these superfoods offer great benefits, there are a few caveats to be mindful of...
- • Avoid Additives - Only use plain, unseasoned versions of these foods (no salt, sugar, or spices).
- • Stick to Proper Portions - Too much of a good thing can lead to digestive issues - moderation is key. Your dog really won't need a lot of them to reap the rewards.
- • Check for Allergies - Watch for any signs of allergies or intolerance when introducing new foods. Stop immediately if they do show signs.
- • Consult Your Vet - If your dog has existing health conditions, always check with your vet before making dietary changes.
It's also worth noting that wile many human "superfoods" are perfectly safe for your dog to enjoy, there are several that should be avoided. For instance, grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs, while onions and garlic can lead to significant digestive upset or worse when consumed in very large quantities.
It's why we strongly advise you look into each food before you feed it to your dog, and if you've any concerns, contact your vet immediately.
In Conclusion
By adding superfoods to your dog's diet, you're setting them up for a long, healthy, and happy life. Whether you're adding antioxidant-rich blueberries, digestion-friendly pumpkin, or omega-packed salmon, these small changes can make a huge impact on your pup's well-being.
But remember, start small, experiment with different options, and be prepared watch your dog thrive!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed my dog superfoods every day?
Yes, many superfoods can be included in your dog's daily diet, but moderation is key. Introduce new foods gradually and stick to appropriate portion sizes to avoid digestive issues.
Are there any superfoods that dogs should avoid?
Yes, there are some superfoods you should avoid. While some superfoods are fantastic for dogs, others - like grapes and onions, can be toxic. Always double-check before introducing a new food to your pup's diet.
What is the easiest way to add superfoods to my dog’s meals?
The simplest way is to mix them into their regular food. For example, add a spoonful of pumpkin to kibble, toss in a few blueberries as a snack, or drizzle a little salmon oil over their meal for an omega-3 boost.
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