As dog lovers, we know they don’t live nearly long enough. One of the largest illnesses seen in dogs is also one that affects humans. Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs, and sometimes it feels like there’s nothing we can do to prevent it. But there is!

There are quite a few household foods that can help prevent and protect your dog from cancer. Feed these to your pup, and he’ll live a long, healthy life!

1. Whole Food

Starting off with quality ingredients and whole foods is the best way to prevent cancer in your dog. Avoiding foods with high levels of fillers like grain, corn, or soy will ensure that your dog gets the most out of his diet. Look for foods with minimal ingredients, and reputable facilities.

We suggest Champion Pet Foods, Open Farm, and Petcurean Foods for kibble!

Preparing your dog’s meals from home is also a great alternative to kibble. Research some healthy dog diets to ensure that your dog gets all the nutrients he needs from his dinner.

2. Green Tea

Green tea contains substances called polyphenols and catechins, which researchers believe give it antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help destroy harmful enzymes in the body, and prevent cancer cell growth. Not only does green tea prevent cancer, but it can destroy cancer cells altogether, with no negative effects on the body.

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps the body use utilize calcium and phosphorous, promoting healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin D promotes cellular differentiation, decreases cancer cell growth, and reduces tumor blood vessel formation. Fatty foods (fish), beef liver, dairy, and egg yolks are all sources of vitamin D.

4. Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3s can work wonders for dogs and humans. They contain the ability to restrict tumor cell growth, and can even cause cancer cells to self destruct. Omega 3s are found in salmon based foods or can be added to the diet via supplement or fish oil.

5. Oils

Coconut, olive, and flax oils are a great source of natural fat that can help prevent cancer in your dog. Olive oil contains oleic acid, as well as some other nutrients that are linked to fighting cancer. Keeping a healthy balance of fat in your dog’s diet will ensure a long and healthy life.

6. Blueberries

Blueberries are among the highest on the list of natural anti-oxidant fruits, used to promote well rounded health. Blueberries contain vitamin C, K, manganese, and dietary fibre. Blueberries also contain multiple nutrients and acids proven to have cancer fighting properties.

7. Greens

Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale all contain cancer fighting properties. These greens contain measurable levels of sulforaphane, which boosts the body’s protective enzymes used to flush out cancer causing chemicals. These enzymes target cancer stem cells, which aid in tumor growth. These greens are known for reducing the risk of cancer in the breast, liver, lung, skin, stomach, and bladder.

8. Rosemary

Rosemary is made up of two main acides -caffeic acid and rosemarinic acid- which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These protect the body from cell damage by free radicals. Rosemary is also rich in carnosol, proven to detoxify substances that can initiate the breast cancer process.

Can you think of any more? Share in the comments below!

1. Modern Dog 2. Embrace

3. Dogster  4. Pacific College

5. WebMD 6. AICR 7. Cancer.gov

8. Health