10 Superfoods for Dogs: Boost Your Dog’s Immunity with These Plant Foods (and How to Serve Them)
- Claire Lucie Sonck
- Feb 13
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 21
Did you know that what you put in your dog’s bowl can directly impact their immune system, overall health, and longevity? Just like us, dogs benefit from nutrient-dense, whole foods that strengthen their natural defenses. Research has shown that plant-based foods, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, can help fight inflammation, support the immune system, and protect against chronic diseases.
In this article, I’ll share 10 science-backed, plant-based superfoods that can naturally boost your dog’s immunity. Each food is backed by scientific research and has been carefully selected for its ability to promote better health, fight disease, and contribute to a longer, healthier life for your furry friend. Plus, I’ll guide you on how to safely prepare these foods, how often to feed them, and why they’re essential for your dog’s well-being.
#1 - Broccoli – The Antioxidant Powerhouse
Why it’s beneficial: Broccoli is packed with vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene, which help strengthen your dog’s immune defenses and fight inflammation. It also contains sulforaphane, a compound shown to have cancer-fighting properties.
How to serve:
Lightly steam to preserve nutrients and aid digestion, can be given raw.
Add a portion equal to 10 to 15% of the total weight of the meal of body weight to the meal 2-3 times a week.
#2 - Blueberries – Tiny but Mighty
Why it’s beneficial: Rich in antioxidants (anthocyanins), vitamin C, and fiber, blueberries help fight free radicals that cause cellular damage and strengthen immune function.
How to serve:
Offer a small handful (5-6 berries) of frozen or fresh blueberries as a treat or as part of a balanced meal (5% of the total weight of the meal).
Use frozen blueberries in summer to cool your dog down.
"A plant-based diet strengthens the immune system to protect your dog against germs and microorganisms." – Andrea Murray, MD Anderson health education specialist.
#3 - Carrots – Vitamin A Boost for Immunity
Why it’s beneficial: Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for immune function, skin health, and eye health.
How to serve:
Serve raw (grated or chopped) or lightly steamed.
Add a portion equal to 10% of the total weight of the meal of body weight to the mealup to every other day.
#4 - Sweet Potatoes – Anti-Inflammatory and Nutrient-Rich
Why it’s beneficial: Packed with vitamin A, C, and fiber, sweet potatoes support immune function and gut health, reducing overall inflammation.
How to serve:
Steam or bake until soft (no seasoning or oil).
Add a portion equal to 10% of the total weight of the meal, 2-3 times a week.
#5 - Spinach – Iron and Immune Support
Why it’s beneficial: Spinach is rich in iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which support immune function and cellular repair. It also contains compounds that fight inflammation.
How to serve:
Lightly steam (to reduce oxalates) and chop finely. Avoid longer cooking, to preserve the nutrients and health benefits.
Add a portion equal to 10 to 15% of the total weight of the meal, 1-2 times a week.
#6 - Apples – A Natural Source of Vitamin C and Fiber
Why it’s beneficial: Apples provide vitamin C, a natural immunity booster, and pectin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health—a key part of immune defense.
How to serve:
Remove the core and seeds (toxic to dogs).
Offer small slices as a treat or grated on meals (5% of the total weight of the meal), up to a few times a week.
#7 - Pumpkin – A Gut and Immunity Ally
Why it’s beneficial: Pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene and fiber, supporting both immune function and healthy digestion—a critical part of overall immunity.
How to serve:
Use plain, steamed, or canned pumpkin (no spices or sugar).
Add a portion equal to 10% of the total weight of the meal, 2-3 times a week.
#8 - Flaxseeds – Omega-3 for Immunity and Inflammation
Why it’s beneficial: Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support a healthy immune system.
How to serve:
Always serve ground flaxseeds (for safe and healthy digestion).
Add 1/2 teaspoon per 10kg of body weight, daily.
#9 - Strawberries – Vitamin C for Immunity
Why it’s beneficial: Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helping support the immune system and fighting free radicals.
How to serve:
Offer fresh or frozen, cut into small pieces.
Offer 2-3 strawberries as a treat or grated on meals (5% of the total weight of the meal), 2-3 times a week.
#9 - Quinoa – The Protein-Packed Superfood
Why it’s beneficial: Quinoa is a complete protein, rich in B vitamins, magnesium, and antioxidants, helping strengthen immune function and support energy.
How to serve:
Cook quinoa thoroughly (no seasoning).
Add a portion equal to 15% of the total weight of the meal, 2-3 times a week.
How to Introduce These Foods Safely:
Introduce slowly: Start with small amounts to monitor tolerance, if your dog isn't used to eating fresh plant foods.
Chop or puree: Make them easy to digest.
Avoid seasonings, oils, or salt, except for nutritional purpose.
Key Takeaways:
Fresh, plant-based foods provide vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber that support immune health.
Focus on a variety of colors to ensure a full range of nutrients.
Combine these foods with a balanced, whole-food diet to maximise their benefits.
Scientific Evidence and References:
Broccoli and Phytonutrients for Dogs:PMC. (2022). The Role of Phytonutrients in Canine Health. PMC
Blueberries and Antioxidant Benefits:Elite Veterinary Care. (2022). Superfoods for Dogs: Healthful Snacks You Can Share. Elite Veterinary Care
Carrots and Beta-Carotene for Immune Health:Humane Society Dayton. (2014). Fruits and Vegetables to Benefit Your Dog. HSDayton
Sweet Potatoes and Anti-Inflammatory Properties:Semantics Scholar. (2019). Nutritional Benefits of Sweet Potatoes for Dogs. Semantics Scholar
Spinach and Its Immune-Boosting Nutrients:Semantics Scholar. (2019). Superfoods for Canine Health. Semantics Scholar
Apples for Vitamin C and Fiber:PetFriendlyBox. (2022). Can Dogs Eat Apples? PetFriendlyBox
Pumpkin and Gut Health Benefits:Humane Society Dayton. (2014). Fruits and Vegetables to Benefit Your Dog. HSDayton
Flaxseeds and Omega-3 for Immunity:LolaHemp. (2022). Superfoods for Dogs. LolaHemp
Strawberries and Antioxidant Support:Semantics Scholar. (2019). The Role of Fruits in Canine Health. Semantics Scholar
Quinoa as a Complete Protein for Dogs:Semantics Scholar. (2019). Quinoa as a Superfood for Dogs. Semantics Scholar
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian or canine nutritionist before making changes to your dog’s diet, health routine, or medical care. The author is a certified canine nutritionist and does not claim to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
© 2025 Claire Lucie | All rights reserved.
No part of this article may be reproduced or distributed without written permission from the author.
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