Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs. While genetics and environmental factors play a role, nutrition can be a powerful tool in reducing cancer risk and supporting dogs diagnosed with the disease. Feeding your dog a diet rich in anti-cancer foods and nutrients can help strengthen the immune system, combat inflammation, and slow tumour growth. Here are ten powerful cancer-fighting foods for dogs that you can include in their diet to boost health and help to prevent cancer.

1. Broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable packed with cancer-fighting compounds such as sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol. These compounds help detoxify the body, reduce inflammation, and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Sulforaphane, in particular, has been shown to activate protective enzymes in the body that help neutralise carcinogens before they can cause harm. The best way to feed broccoli is to lightly steam it. Steaming the broccoli can make it easier for dogs to digest while preserving its beneficial nutrients.

2. Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a nutrient powerhouse rich in beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage, a key contributor to cancer development. It also contains fibre, which supports gut health and aids in the removal of toxins from the body. Additionally, pumpkin is high in vitamins A, C, and E, which strengthen the immune system and promote overall well-being. Adding a spoonful of plain, cooked pumpkin to your dog’s diet can provide these benefits. You can also include a healthy dehydrated pumpkin treat like The Barkery Dehydrated Pumpkin Delight Dog Treats in your dog’s diet. Though pumpkin is very low in calories, it’s still important to be mindful of how many extra treats you give your dog daily. In general, you don't want more than 10% of a pet's daily calories coming from treats.

3. Fish and Fish Oil

Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel, as well as fish oil supplements like this Dom & Cleo Wild Fish Oil Supplements, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help combat chronic inflammation, which is linked to cancer development. Omega-3s also support healthy cell function, slow tumour growth, and improve the effectiveness of conventional cancer treatments.

When feeding fish, opt for wild-caught varieties and avoid those high in mercury. Here are some low-mercury, oily fish that are safe and beneficial for dogs:

• Sardines – Small, nutrient-dense, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Since they have a short lifespan, they accumulate very little mercury. Here’s a single ingredient, freeze-dried sardine treat that is both nutritious and delicious: The Paw Grocer Freeze Dried Cat & Dog Treats.
• Anchovies – Another small fish packed with healthy fats and low in contaminants.
• Mackerel (Atlantic or Spanish, but NOT King Mackerel) – A great source of omega-3s; avoid King Mackerel, which has high mercury levels.
• Herring – A good choice for omega-3s and low in mercury due to its short lifespan.
• Smelt – A small fish with high levels of beneficial fatty acids and minimal mercury risk.

4. Dark Berries

Berries such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins and flavonoids, which help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. These compounds have been shown to slow the growth of cancer cells and prevent DNA damage. Berries also contain fibre, which supports gut health. Add a little fresh or frozen berries to your dog’s meals or give as treats. It’s a delicious way to enhance their health!

If you prefer an antioxidant-rich supplement that is made from organic apples and wild berries, try this Four Leaf Rover (RED ROVER) Organic Berries Dog Supplements. It's rich in immune-boosting polyphenols, including astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant known for its ability to attack free radicals and defend mitochondria. When mitochondrial function is disrupted, it can contribute to cancer development and progression. 

5. Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, shiitake, maitake, and turkey tail contain powerful compounds that boost the immune system and have been studied extensively for their cancer-fighting properties. Beta-glucans found in these mushrooms enhance immune cell activity, helping the body recognise and destroy abnormal cancerous cells. Additionally, mushrooms have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that support overall health. Mushroom supplements specifically formulated for dogs like this Holy Cap Medicinal Mushroom Supplement for Dogs (Immunity) can be a great way to incorporate these benefits into their diet. 

6. Apple

Apples are a great source of fibre and polyphenols, which have been linked to cancer prevention. The skin of apples, in particular, contains quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that reduces inflammation and inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Apples also support gut health by providing pectin, a type of prebiotic fibre that promotes a balanced gut microbiome, which is crucial for digestion, immunity, inflammation management and cancer prevention. When feeding apples to your dog, remove the seeds, as they contain small amounts of cyanide, which can be harmful to dogs in large quantities.

7. Kale

Kale is another cruciferous vegetable packed with anti-cancer compounds, including sulforaphane and isothiocyanates, which help detoxify the body and reduce inflammation. It is also rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids, which combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage. Additionally, kale contains chlorophyll, which has been shown to bind to carcinogens and prevent them from being absorbed into the bloodstream. Lightly steaming the kale to make it easier for dogs to digest while preserving its nutrients.

8. Carrots

Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that converts to vitamin A in the body and plays a crucial role in immune function and cancer prevention. Studies suggest that beta-carotene can help reduce the risk of certain cancers by protecting cells from free radical damage. Carrots also contain falcarinol, a natural compound that has been found to slow the growth of cancer cells. Carrots can be fed raw or lightly steamed. Additional benefits of raw carrots: carrots are crunchy and can also promote dental health. Occasionally, give your dog a carrot stick for all its health benefits!

9. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound that has been extensively studied for its cancer-fighting properties. Curcumin has been shown to suppress tumour growth, prevent cancer cell proliferation, and enhance the body’s ability to detoxify harmful substances. Since curcumin has low bioavailability, combining it with a small pinch of black pepper and a healthy fat such as cold-pressed coconut oil can improve its absorption. Many dog-friendly turmeric supplements are available for easy incorporation into your pet’s diet.

10. Ginger

Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich food that has been studied for its cancer-fighting properties. It contains bioactive compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have been shown to inhibit tumour growth, induce cancer cell death (apoptosis), and reduce oxidative stress. Additionally, ginger helps improve digestion and supports immune function, making it a valuable addition to a cancer-preventative diet for dogs. You can add a small amount of fresh or powdered ginger to your dog’s food to harness its benefits, but always introduce it gradually in small amounts to avoid stomach upset.

Be proactive in feeding your dog a diet rich in a variety of anti-cancer foods. While no single food can prevent cancer, a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet combined with a healthy lifestyle can make a significant difference. Remember to always introduce new foods gradually and consult with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have existing health conditions.

KATHERINE KHOO

Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.