Gone are the days when kibble alone was thought to be optimum nutrition for your beloved dog. These days, we know better. Dogs thrive on a varied diet, and a few simple additions to your four legged BFF’s nutrition can improve their health, wellbeing and lifespan.

Improving their diet doesn’t have to be costly or time consuming, you can start today with items you may already have in your kitchen..

Take a look at our top five healthy foods that you can add to your dog’s diet right now, to improve their health for tomorrow.

1. Coconut Oil. Coconut Oil has become well known for being a superfood for humans over the last few years and now people are realizing its benefits for canines too. Why is it such a wonder food? It’s all down to MCTs, or Medium chain triglycerides – incredibly healthy fats which have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. This makes coconut oil a great choice for dogs with skin allergies and digestive issues. Coconut oil has also been found to help thyroid function in dogs, increase energy levels, and aid weight loss.
2. Next time you’re chopping carrots for dinner, pass one to your pooch. They make a tasty snack and will even help clean your dog’s teeth. Not to mention that they are bursting with vitamins and minerals including vitamins C, K, B vitamins, magnesium, manganese and potassium.
3. Oily Fish. Sardines, mackerel, herring and other oily fish are an excellent protein source and are bursting with Omega 3 fats. These fats are well known for being good for the skin and coat, but are also first class anti-inflammatories and could prevent and ease the symptoms of arthritis.
4. Full of probiotics which look after your pup’s gut, yogurt is a highly recommended addition to a dog’s diet. It encourages good gut bacteria to thrive whilst minimizing the bad bacteria, meaning your dog’s digestive system is kept in top working order. Just stick to natural and greek varieties and avoid sugary flavored yogurt.
5. Berries of all kinds are brimming with antioxidants, and blueberries are especially rich in them. Antioxidants are an important part of your dog’s diet because they boost the immune system.

Improving your dog’s diet is easy with a few simple additions. Remember to introduce them to new foods slowly and in small quantities to prevent stomach upsets, as dog’s digestive system can react badly to food’s they aren’t familiar with.