Courtesy Photo Pinky the dachshund, caught going through a box of vegetables, is proof dogs like veggies

When planning the family garden, whether it’s a pretty impressive swath of land in the backyard, or just a couple of pots, most people plant vegetables that are family favorites. But as you go out and purchase your seeds or starter plants this spring, you might want to consider your four-legged family members. That’s right, many vegetables make a great dog treat — low in calories and high in many essential vitamins and minerals and you can grow them right out your back door.

Let’s take a look at some home-grown treats and how they can benefit our beloved pets.

It might surprise you to know that bell peppers, regardless of the color, are not only safe for dogs, but one of the best of all vegetable treats. Pet MD says, bell peppers have good amounts of vitamins A, B6, and E as well as antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene. Peppers help promote skin, coat and eye health for Fido as well.

While many young children may fight you on trying vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, you probably won’t face any resistance when offering these extremely nutritious rewards to your dog. Broccoli also has antioxidants, digestible plant protein, vitamins C and K, folic acid and essential minerals like magnesium, sodium and chromium. Likewise, Brussels sprouts are loaded with fiber, antioxidants and vitamins A, B1, B6, C and K. Both can be grown in local gardens, but be aware, because of their high fiber content, these veggies should be given out in moderation, because eating too many can cause flatulence and other stomach issues.

Cabbage is full of antioxidants and fiber, which helps your dog’s digestive system. It also contains folate, protein, potassium, calcium, manganese, magnesium, iron, riboflavin, and vitamins A, B6, C, and K. However, cabbage can also cause increased flatulence.

Anyone who has dropped a carrot on the kitchen floor knows full well it’s not just rabbits who love these orange colored goodies.Carrots are a great choice for a healthy dog treat. They’re high in fiber and low in calories, and they contain beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. They are also fun for dogs to crunch, and most dogs will love them because they’re sweet. However, carrots must be given in moderation because they are high in sugar.

According to Pet MD, the list of veggies your pooch can and should eat is quite lengthy — cucumbers, green beans, lettuce, peas, spinach and zucchini (which gives you an alternative to leaving it on the neighbor’s porch). All of these can be given to your dog raw. Some veggies, like pumpkin, squash and sweet potatoes, all of which are found in local gardens, are fine for dogs as long as they are thoroughly cooked.

The big no-no in terms of garden vegetables is onions — any kind, and that includes garlic, chives and leeks. Pet MD says these are all toxic to dogs and cats alike.

While most of what is in your vegetable garden is great for treats and snacks, don’t be tempted to make them the majority of your doggie’s diet. Experts say, like any treat, these garden goodies should not make up more than 10 percent of you pet’s daily food intake.

Veggies aren’t the only garden treat you dog can enjoy, but when it comes to fruit, the American Kennel Club says to be more selective. Locally-grown fruit that are safe for dogs include apples, blueberries, strawberries, cantalope, raspberries and peaches.

Fruits to stay away from include tomatoes, cherries and grapes.

While pet experts say you should avoid giving your pet table scraps, there are plenty of healthy and safe treats growing right in your back yard.