Hungry like the Wolf: Seven Dog-Friendly Veggies

Introduction: Think Like a Wolf

Here’s some food for thought, dogs are not strictly carnivores. Going back to their ancestor the wolf, they are more opportunistic. The wolf will eat whatever provides them nutrition, meat from prey, foraged food staples, like berries, even poop. Yes, gross but scat from other animals often provide undigested food sources. When dog parents ask me what to feed their dogs,  I often suggest they think like a wolf. Go back to basics. I also suggest you do your research, know your breed, and consult your veterinarian. 

But the truth is, dogs thrive on balanced nutrition, and while meat is a staple, vegetables offer essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support long-term health. In this guide, we explore Seven Dog-Friendly Veggies that are safe, beneficial, and easy to incorporate into your dog’s diet. From digestive support to immune boosts, these veggies can help manage common canine conditions like obesity, constipation, and inflammation.

1. Carrots

Yes, your dog can eat carrots, the best part…your dog can eat them cooked or raw. Raw carrots are great and act like a toothbrush scraping away and residue on your dog's teeth. 

Nutritional Highlights:

• Rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A precursor)

• High in fiber, vitamin K, and potassium

• Low in calories and sugar

Raw or Cooked?Carrots can be fed raw or cooked. Raw carrots are great for dental health, while cooked carrots are easier to digest for sensitive stomachs.

Health Benefits for Dogs:

• Supports eye health and immune function

• Helps with weight control due to low calorie density

• Fiber aids in digestive regularity

2. Potatoes

Yes, your dog can eat potatoes, but only cooked, never raw. We feed our dogs 100% human food, no store bought dog food. Potatoes are a great base when creating a meal. We interchange between potatoes, rice, and egg noodles. 

Nutritional Highlights:

• Source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and iron

• High in carbohydrates for energy

• Contains potassium and magnesium

Raw or Cooked?Only feed cooked potatoes—raw potatoes contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs.

Health Benefits for Dogs:

• Provides energy for active dogs

• Supports muscle function and nerve health

• Can help underweight dogs gain healthy mass

3. Sweet Potatoes

Yes, your dog can eat sweet potatoes. For digestive reasons, cooked sweet potato is best for your dog, but should they eat one raw by accident, no worries… it might stop up the plumbing a bit because raw sweet potato is a BIG source of fiber. Sweet potatoes are often used in store bought dog treats, but you can slice and dehydrate them yourself for a cheap and easy dog snack. 

Nutritional Highlights:

• Packed with beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber

• Contains manganese and vitamin B6

• Antioxidants

• Fiber

Raw or Cooked?

Best served cooked and mashed—raw sweet potatoes are hard to digest.

Health Benefits for Dogs:

• Promotes gut health and regular bowel movements

• Supports skin and coat health

• Helps manage inflammation and joint pain

4. Pumpkin

Our pups love pumpkin, and puréed pumpkin is great for upset dog bellies. We grow our own so we have an accessible stockpile for our home cooked dog meals all year long. Pumpkins are also 90% water so it’s great for hydration, coupled with high fiber, pumpkin makes a good regulator. If your pooch is loose in the goose, try pumpkin purée…if your dog has a block in the plumbing….try pumpkin purée. Watch for canned varieties, as some can be full of sugar. That’s a no no. 

Nutritional Highlights:

• High in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants

• Contains iron, potassium, and zinc

Raw or Cooked?Use plain canned pumpkin or cooked fresh pumpkin. Avoid pie filling with added sugar/spices.

Health Benefits for Dogs:

• Regulates digestion and relieves constipation or diarrhea

• Supports urinary health

• Boosts immune system with antioxidants

5. Winter Squash

Squash can be tolerated by all dog breeds, some more than others. PetMD seems to like the 10% rule. Squash is another veggie we grow in our garden, so our labs get more than a 10% helping every 3-4 days. You can gauge how much your dog can tolerate by monitoring his or her poop…poop never lies. 

Nutritional Highlights:

• Rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber

• Contains calcium, magnesium, and potassium

Raw or Cooked?Serve cooked only—raw squash is tough and hard to digest.

Health Benefits for Dogs:

• Supports bone health and muscle recovery

• Aids in hydration and electrolyte balance

• Helps with weight management

6. Green Beans

Green beans can be tolerated both cooked and raw. They are a nutritious snack and make a great addition to a home hooked dog meal. 

Nutritional Highlights:

• High in fiber, vitamin K, and iron

• Low in calories and fat

Raw or Cooked?Can be fed raw, steamed, or canned (no salt). Cooked is easier on digestion.

Health Benefits for Dogs:

• Ideal for weight loss diets

• Supports heart health and circulation

• Fiber promotes gut health

7. Cucumbers

Cucumbers are made up mostly of water…96% water to be exact. Which makes cucumbers a yummy snack for hydrating in hot or dry months.  Dogs can eat cucumbers raw which makes them an easy snack. 

Nutritional Highlights:

• Contains vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium

• Very low in calories

Raw or Cooked?Best served raw—cucumbers are hydrating and crunchy.

Health Benefits for Dogs:

• Helps with hydration and cooling

• Supports kidney function

• Great for overweight dogs needing low-calorie treats

How These Seven Dog-Friendly Veggies Help with Common Canine Conditions

Digestive Issues: Pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and green beans regulate bowel movements and soothe upset stomachs.

Weight Management: Carrots, green beans, and cucumbers are low-calorie options that help dogs feel full without excess calories.

Inflammation & Joint Support: Sweet potatoes, winter squash, and pumpkin contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Feeding Veggies to Your Dog: Start Smart

First things first: Know your dog, know your breed.If your dog is a beast — like mine — and eats like a goat without digestive upset, you can introduce these vegetables with more confidence than you would with a pooch prone to food sensitivities. While I always recommend consulting your veterinarian, these seven veggies are widely recognized as safe for dogs. Still… consult your veterinarian anyway.

If your dog is used to manufactured dog food only, proceed slowly.Introduce vegetables one at a time, in small amounts, and monitor for any changes.

Keep It Simple

Avoid seasonings, butter, and oil.Yes, some oils are beneficial for dogs — but that’s a topic for another day. For now, while we’re introducing these seven dog-friendly vegetables, stick to the basics.

Chop, Mash, Purée: It Matters

The smaller the veggie pieces, the easier they are to digest — and the better the nutritional absorption.I always say: “Poop doesn’t lie.” If you’re seeing chunks of undigested vegetables in your dog’s stool, it’s a sign they’re not breaking it down efficiently. Chop smaller or purée for maximum benefit.

Allergies and Sensitivities

When it comes to food reactions, I’ll repeat it louder for the folks in the back: Know your dog. Consult your vet.

Frozen Veggie Treats: Smart Snacking for All Ages

At New England Labrador Retrievers, we love crafting our own frozen treats — and these seven dog-friendly vegetables are our go-to essentials.

Frozen chew toys aren’t just a teething lifesaver for puppies. They help train appropriate bite inhibition, keep little mouths busy, and soothe sore gums. But adult dogs benefit too. These frozen options are healthy, nutrient-rich, and support dental hygiene. They even freshen breath… well, maybe not fresh, but definitely more tolerable.

You can freeze veggie blends into hard bones, silicone molds, or stuff them into store-bought chews. Just keep it simple, skip the seasonings, and let the veggies do the work.

Conclusion

Incorporating Seven Dog-Friendly Veggies into your dog’s diet is a simple, effective way to boost their health naturally. Whether you're managing weight, improving digestion, or just adding variety, these vegetables offer a safe and nutritious path to canine wellness. Try rotating them weekly and observe how your dog responds—tail wags and happy tummies await.