9 Super Foods That are Good for Dogs and People

Dog food and treats can get so boring - mix up your dog's next meal with one of these yummy "super food" ingredients that you can even eat too! 

Here are 9 Super Foods that are good for your dog and for you...

#1. Blueberries
One of the world's healthiest foods! Blueberries are one of our favorite ingredients to use in Smart Cookie Dog Treats (check out one of our most popular blueberry dog treats here). That's because they are loaded with antioxidants (those super powered chemicals that fight off free-radical ninjas).  Ever wonder why blueberries are blue? It's because of these awesome things called Anthocyanins and Phytochemicals known as colorful antioxidants.

#2. Spinach and Broccoli
Probably two of the most well known super foods out there.  Spinach and broccoli both contain a huge amount of phytochemicals.  Studies have shown that phytochemicals play a big role in disease prevention. Cheers to that!

#3. Salmon
Nom nom nom.  Salmon is a favorite ingredient among our human and dog friends.  That's why we use real salmon fillets in 8 of our dog treat recipes. Not only is it a great source of protein but the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids have been shown to contribute to joint health (keep those things lubricated!), shiny coats, and can combat itchy skin by keeping it hydrated and replenishing natural oils.  You can read more about fish oils here and why they are so great for both you and your dog.  Looking for a great salmon dog treat for your dog? Check out The Prima Dogna - one of our most popular salmon dog treats.

#4. Carrots
Move over Bugs Bunny! Dogs LOVE carrots! Carrots make a delicious snack that you can crunch on with your dog.  You've probably always heard that carrots are good for your eyes - and that's true! Beta-carotene (what makes carrots orange and gives them their name) converts into Vitamin A in the body which promotes vision and eye health, boosts the immune system and contributes to healthy skin.  We use real shredded carrots from California in our dog treats - here's one of our most popular.

#5. Bananas
This s&*t is bananas, b-a-n-a-n-a-s! (Thanks, Gwen Stephani). Bananas are a rockin' source of potassium and loads of other vitamins and minerals.  The reason they are so starchy and have an almost chewy texture is because they contain pectin, a form of fiber, providing over 3 grams of dietary fiber per serving.

#6. Olive Oil
The Greeks were onto something. Olive oil is loaded with monounsaturated fats (healthy fats) that help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol, keeping a healthy balance in your system.  Not to mention, it is is amazing for your skin's hydration, and your dog's coat.

#7. Kelp
That slimy stuff in the sea is actually full of vitamins and minerals.  Similar to kale and any other leafy dark green, the phytochemicals inside of kelp help fight off free-radicals aiding in disease prevention.  Try making kelp chips - they may just be the next best thing beside potato chips!

#8. Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes have a lot of the same health benefits as carrots.  Chalk-full of beta-carotene (hence the orange color), lots of fiber to help keep your dog's poo-breaks regular, and Vitamin B6 which plays a big role in cognative function.  Keep an eye out, we may just have a new sweet potato dog treat baking up in the Smart Cookie kitchen!

#9. WATER!
Obviously... Water is the number one best thing that you and your dog can drink. Our bodies are composed of about 60% water, so through daily activities, exercise and more, the water in your body is expended and you need to replenish!