German Shepherds are a very active and agile breed of dogs, and because of that, they must have a diet rich in nutrients to keep them healthy and energized. However, most dog feed formulation is centered around meat and protein, but they can still use some other beneficial and nutritious snacks in their diets, and carrots are one of them. German Shepherds can eat carrots as a snack or as a treat. It is safe for them. You might be wondering about the benefits, potential hazards, and ways to feed carrots to your German Shepherd, but don’t worry. This article has got it all covered, so let’s begin!
Can German Shepherds eat carrots?
Yes! According to Akc It is completely safe to feed you dog carrots.
Why are carrots good for your German Shepherd?
German shepherds need a lot of nutrients to stay healthy and strong, so feeding carrots to them as a snack can be a good idea. Carrots have a lot of nutritional elements, including fibers, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B8, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and manganese. Carrots are also packed with phytochemicals and antioxidants.
Fibers
A fiber-rich diet can greatly assist your GSD’s digestive capabilities. It allows better absorption of water and nutrients from the intestines into the blood. It promotes regular bowel movement and also helps to avoid colon cancer. Fiber strengthens the good bacteria in the GSD’s guts which helps to fight against inflammation. It promotes good colon health and is useful if your German Shepherd is constipated.
Vitamin A and C
Vitamin A can be beneficial for your German Shepherds’ skin and vision and reduces night blindness. It slows down the progression of eye-related problems in older dogs. Vitamin A promotes cell growth and keeps their fur looking healthy and shiny.
Vitamin C boosts the immune system and aids in fighting diseases. It slows down signs of aging and prevents cancer.
Vitamin K
Vitamin k strengthens the bones and teeth of German Shepherds. It greatly reduces the risk of bone fracture and prevents blood clots. Vitamin k facilitates the bone marrow to produce more red blood cells, which prevents anemia. In female German Shepherds, it prevents the risk of miscarriages.
Vitamin B8
Vitamin B8 reduces cholesterol levels, is anti-inflammatory, and helps with hair growth. It also helps with the proper functioning of the heart and brain. Vitamin B8 converts the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into energy that your German Shepherd can use for running around or performing other activities.
Phytochemicals
The name may look scary and intimidating, but do not worry. They are not harmful to your German Shepherd. Phytochemicals are also called phytonutrients, improving the immune system and promoting cardiovascular health. They also prevent cancer and diabetes.
Manganese
It will provide your German Shepherd energy by metabolizing proteins and carbs. It will also maintain their bone and joint health.
Iron
Iron helps in the formation of red blood cells. It increases the oxygen levels in the body and provides them with energy.
Dental Health
As your German Shepherd will bite and chew into the carrot, it will remove the plaque from their teeth and make them cleaner. However, this is not a replacement for their regular dental care.
How to feed carrots to your GSD
Carrots are healthy and affordable snacks for your German Shepherds, but there are some things to keep in mind when you feed them carrots.
Washing and peeling
If the carrots are not organic, there is a high chance that they will have pesticides and some germs on them, so before you feed them to your German Shepherd, thoroughly wash and peel it. Cut the carrot into small pieces and give them to your German Shepherds.
Portion size
German Shepherd treats should only make up 5 to 10% of your dog’s diet.
It is better to consult your doctor before you feed carrots to your GSDs and ask them for the recommended portion size. The amount depends on the weight and size of your German Shepherd. I have mentioned that carrots are healthy and full of nutrients and vitamins, but too many of them are not safe for your German Shepherd. Just like nutrient deficiencies can cause health problems, excessive amounts of nutrients and vitamins can also cause an imbalance in their bodies. Eating too many carrots can result in diarrhea and vomiting.
Adult German Shepherds
An adult German Shepherd can safely eat a handful of carrot slices in one day.
Cooked carrots
If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you can steam the carrots and feed them to your dog. It will become easier to digest. Boiling it is another option, but it will decrease the nutritional value.
Teething puppies
Chilled or frozen carrots can be a great way to soothe the sore gums of your teething puppy, and chewing and biting on them will keep them occupied and happy.
When to avoid feeding carrots to your GSD
Normally carrots are safe to feed your GSD, but there can be some exceptional cases, and that’s when you should avoid feeding carrots to your dog or contact your vet for advice before feeding them carrots.
If they have a weak stomach
Carrots can be hard to digest, and if your German Shepherd has a weak stomach, you should avoid feeding them carrots as it can cause digestive problems like bloating or diarrhea.
If they are allergic
Although it is rare, your German Shepherd can be allergic to carrots. Feed them a very small amount first and wait for the next 24 hours to see if there is any reaction. Suppose your German Shepherd shows symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, itchy skin, ear infections, and red and itchy eyes. In that case, your German Shepherd is likely allergic to carrots. In that case, contact your vet.
Can German Shepherds eat carrot greens?
Yes, German Shepherds can eat carrot greens, although they are less popular. You will have to wash and chop them before feeding them to your German Shepherd. They can help to prevent cancer and also detox the liver. Carrot greens are not tasty, so your German Shepherd might not like them.
Can carrots cause obesity?
Almost half of the total carbs in carrots consist of natural sugar. Even natural sugars can cause obesity if ingested too much. Feeding too many carrots can cause obesity in your German Shepherd dog, so it is better to feed them moderately.
My experience
My German Shepherd Jack loves to eat carrots and chew on them, but I found out that it sometimes is hard for him to digest the chunks of carrots, so I grate a bit of carrots on his meals now and then, and he loves it. It makes him enjoy his meals much more and avoids digestive issues.
FAQs
Is it okay to feed carrots to my German Shepherd regularly?
You can feed your German Shepherd small amounts of carrots regularly. They are healthy and affordable. But it is still advised to ask your vet about the amount and how frequently you should feed carrots to them.
Can puppies eat raw carrots?
Yes, puppies can eat raw carrots, but it is better to cut them into small pieces and then feed them to your puppies to avoid choking.
What would happen if my dog ate too many carrots?
Carrots are rich in fiber and vitamins. Where fiber is good for their digestive system and helps with regular bowel movements, excessive amounts of fiber can upset your dog’s stomach, and they can have stomach issues. Vitamins are also beneficial, but too many of them can also cause an imbalance in the body. Always feed them carrots in small amounts.
