5 Foods That Will Maintain Your Dog’s Eyesight
Feb 9, 2023
One of the most wonderful moments for a dog owner is the moment when your favorite furry friend recognizes you, their eyes filling with delight. What if a day comes when your dog’s eyesight fails, and they no longer recognize anyone—even you? Fortunately, you can help prevent this with five foods that will maintain your dog’s eyesight.
Food #1: Blueberries
Although you may not normally feed fruits to your dog, blueberries can benefit them. They have lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids that help with eye health. Blueberries also have anthocyanins, which can benefit your dog’s nighttime vision. Furthermore, the flavonoids present in blueberries can help prevent your dog from suffering retinal atrophy.
Food #2: Broccoli
Another food that will maintain your dog’s eyesight is broccoli. This vegetable boasts anti-cancer benefits and is an excellent source of lutein and zeaxanthin. It also contains beta-carotene, which can help your dog’s eyesight.
Food #3: Cold-Water Fish
Chances are, your dog spends a lot of time around you when you’re having dinner, hoping you’ll throw them a scrap of your meal. While many owners discourage begging, if you’re having fish, you might just want to give them a taste. Fish such as salmon, tuna, cod, and sardines have omega-3s like DHA that can benefit the cellular health of your pet’s eyes. In fact, 30 percent of the fatty acids that make up the retina consist of DHA.
Food #4: Carrots
Another vegetable that can provide your dog with a bounty of nutrients that protect their vision is the carrot. Carrots have vitamins A, C, D, and E, along with beta-carotene. In addition, they offer phytonutrients that can help guard your dog’s eyes against free radical damage and UVB radiation.
Food #5: Pumpkins
Don’t get pumpkins just for Halloween or Thanksgiving. Instead, these orange globes offer beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin to help keep your dog’s eyesight keen. But good eyesight isn’t the only benefit your dog can get from pumpkins. Pumpkin seeds offer omega-3s and zinc that can help strengthen their immune systems.
After you research these foods and add them to your dog’s diet, keep an eye out for signs your pet might have glaucoma or cataracts. You want your furry friend to make the most out of their time with your family, so do your best to ensure they stay healthy with good eyesight.
Disclaimer: healthcareforpets.com and its team of veterinarians and clinicians do not endorse any products, services, or recommended advice. All advice presented by our veterinarians, clinicians, tools, resources, etc is not meant to replace a regular physical exam and consultation with your primary veterinarian or other clinicians. We always encourage you to seek medical advice from your regular veterinarian.
