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Broccoli is a yummy vegetable that’s known for being a healthy, cancer-fighting food for dogs. This cruciferous vegetable is rich in glucosinolates, which break down into anti-cancer compounds, says Dr. Zacharias. “These compounds are involved in apoptosis (cell death) of harmful cells and help prevent angiogenesis (blood vessel formation),” she says. “This is important because we want to prevent blood vessels from growing in tumors, which then ‘feeds’ tumor growth.”
To make it easy for your pup to consume, either cut raw broccoli into small pieces or steam it before serving. As with other ingredients we’ve listed here, careful moderation is important. Though it’s a tasty snack in small quantities, too much of this cancer-fighting food for dogs can cause some gastro upset in pups, according to the AKC. Sprinkle it on top of your pet’s meal as a yummy topper or offer small pieces as a treat. Or look for a dog food, like The Honest Kitchen Tender Turkey Stew, which includes broccoli in the recipe.
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Supplementing a dog’s diet with an antioxidant combination of vitamin C, vitamin E, taurine, lutein, lycopene and beta-carotene may result in decreased DNA damage and improved immune response, according to one study by Waltham Petcare Science Institute, a nutrition-focused organization funded by Mars Petcare. “In other words, the levels of antioxidants produced by the ingredients had a protective effect against DNA damage,” says Dr. Sung. “It is not clear if supplementation with only one of these ingredients would have similar effects on the dogs’ health. However, use of these ingredients together may provide a preventative measure against the development of cancer.”
The best way to incorporate these ingredients is via fortified food, such as Victor Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food, or by adding a supplement, like VetriScience Immune Plus. That said, the same holds true about checking with your vet and reading labels carefully before supplementing your dog’s diet.
Understanding cancer in dogs
While some cancers are genetic, certain lifestyle circumstances can increase dogs’ risks. But as our pups don’t make (most) of their own calls, it’s up to us to be responsible owners to keep pets as healthy as possible.
“For instance, secondhand smoke, sun exposure and hormone production are respectively associated with lymphoma, skin cancer and breast (mammary) cancer in dogs,” says Sue Downing, DVM, a veterinarian and oncologist for the VCA Animal Specialty and Emergency Center in Los Angeles. “Therefore, cancer risk can be lowered by avoiding secondhand smoke, limiting midday sun exposure, and spaying female dogs at an early age.”
Additionally, maintaining an ideal body weight reduces a dog’s risk of developing cancer, according to Dr. Downing. That means it’s incredibly important to feed your pup high-quality dog food and sparingly offer healthy dog treats.
That said, while no specific dog food will outright prevent cancer from developing, making some smarter choices can help your dog have a happy, healthy life and even lower your dog’s chances of developing this disease.
Dog nutrition basics
Like humans, dogs are omnivores and require a similar balance of protein, carbohydrates and fats in their diets. A good rule of thumb when feeding your pet: Stick with high-quality foods that list whole foods in their ingredient panels. “The ideal canine diet should be made by a well-established manufacturer using common protein sources such as chicken or beef and containing grains including wheat, corn, and rice,” says Dr. Downing.
This can generally be achieved with any commercially available dog food that meets AAFCO standards for your dog’s life stage and breed size. However, you may choose to supplement their diet with whole foods from your own kitchen.
“If you feed kibble, you can improve the diet by adding a little lean [unseasoned] meat to it,” says veterinarian Evelyn Kass, DVM, who specializes in pet nutrition. Just be cautious about chicken, she warns, since it is one of the top allergenic foods for dogs and can make dogs feel ill. If your dog has allergies or a sensitive stomach, stick to beef instead, and make sure to remove any bones with either.
Feeding your dog a whole, rounded diet complete with cancer-fighting dog foods is one way you can ensure that they live a long and healthy life. Make sure to also spoil them with lots of affection, plenty of play time and words of praise.
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