Considering how acute a dog’s sense of smell is, imagine how enticing an aromatic bowl of fresh fruit must be to them. While fruit is high in fiber, an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, and contains antioxidants, if you feed your dog a high-quality dog food that’s appropriate for their age and size, you’re already giving them all the nutrients he needs. Of course, that doesn’t mean your dog won’t enjoy a special treat. When offered in small quantities and cut into bite-sized pieces, fruit is preferable to prepackaged pet snacks, but treats should never be more than 10% of a dog’s total daily calories.
But you may be asking yourself, “What kinds of fruits can my dog eat?” Before introducing any fruit into your dog’s diet, it’s a good idea to check with your veterinarian first. Start by giving your dog a small taste, and then monitor them for any stomach problems or behavioral changes. If you detect anything out of the ordinary, stop giving them the fruit and call the vet. Fruit tends to have a high sugar content, so it’s especially important to talk with your vet first if your pup suffers from health conditions such as obesity or diabetes.
Keep in mind that as carnivores, canines have a different digestive system from ours and too much fruit can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. Even more concerning when it comes to dogs is that not all fruits are safe and some can be extremely dangerous. Eating even a small amount of the wrong fruit can lead to serious health issues, and in some cases be fatal. Knowing which fruits a dog can and can’t eat is crucial.
Can dogs eat bananas?
Yes, dogs can eat bananas in moderation. Bananas are high in potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, fiber, and magnesium. However, they also have a high natural sugar content, which can lead to weight gain and tooth decay. You may be wondering, “Can dogs eat banana skin?” While not toxic for dogs to ingest, banana peels are hard to digest and may cause a blockage. If you’re giving your dog a banana make sure to peel it and cut it up. As for how much banana a dog can eat, even a large dog should eat no more than half a banana a day. Too much can cause diarrhea and vomiting.
Can dogs eat apples?
Yes, dogs can eat apples. They’re an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber, fairly low in calories, and they’ll probably love the crunch and crisp taste. A slice or two a day can even help clean your dog’s teeth. While it’s safe for dogs to eat apples, avoid giving your dog the whole thing. The seeds contain the toxic substance cyanide and the core can be a choking hazard, especially for smaller breeds.
Can dogs eat blueberries?
Yes, blueberries are good for dogs. Often touted as one of the “superfoods,” blueberries are both low in calories and high in fiber and nutrients. Other benefits of blueberries for dogs include a large number of phytochemicals for a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Their antioxidants protect against cell damage, making them an excellent choice for older dogs. Fresh or frozen, blueberries make a great treat for your dog.
Can dogs eat strawberries?
Yes, dogs can have strawberries. This sweet fruit contains fiber, vitamin C, and a teeth-whitening enzyme. They have a high water content, so they’re low in calories, but they’re also high in sugar. Like blueberries, they contain natural compounds that act as antioxidants in the body. Strawberries are safe for dogs when you wash them and cut them up into small pieces so they’re easy to digest.
Can dogs eat watermelon?
Yes, watermelon is safe for dogs to eat. Since it contains almost 92% water content, watermelon is not only low in calories; it has the added benefit of hydrating your dog on hot days. Watermelon also has phytochemicals such as lycopene, vitamin C, and antioxidant properties. Are you wondering if dogs can eat melon skin? Or maybe you want to know, can dogs have watermelon seeds? While watermelon is safe for dogs, the rind is not, and the seeds should be removed from the flesh to prevent an intestinal blockage.
Can dogs eat grapes?
No, dogs should never eat grapes or raisins, which are just dried grapes. Grapes have proven to be highly toxic and even fatal to dogs. Tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate have been proposed as the toxins in grapes that lead to acute kidney failure. The amount of these substances can vary grape-to-grape based on several factors which is why any grape (or raisin) should be avoided. Grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure. Some dogs—regardless of size, age, or breed—can have serious reactions. Even if they’re seedless or peeled, dogs should never have any grapes. If your dog eats a grape or raisin, call your veterinarian. They may tell you to induce vomiting, but if your dog is unconscious, struggling to breathe, or exhibiting signs of shock, you shouldn’t attempt to do this.
Can dogs eat oranges?
Yes, dogs can eat oranges in small quantities—about one or two segments a day. However, the acidic taste of citrus may not please your dog’s palate. While oranges offer the benefits of potassium, fiber, and an abundance of vitamin C, dogs should only eat the flesh of the orange. The seeds contain a small amount of cyanide, which can be poisonous to dogs, and orange peel can be hard on their digestive tract.
Can dogs eat pineapple?
Yes to pineapple for dogs as long as it’s only a few chunks and they don’t eat any of the tough skin or spiky crown, as those can present choking hazards. Pineapple is high in vitamin C and fiber, as well as other vitamins and minerals. It also contains the enzyme bromelain, which makes it easier for dogs to digest protein and also offers anti-inflammatory benefits.
Can dogs eat mango?
Yes, dogs are allowed mango. This sweet fruit boasts vitamins A, B6, C, and K, as well as potassium, folate, beta-carotene, and calcium. While mango is safe for dogs, the hard pits are large and can be a choking hazard. This is another fruit that also contains a small amount of cyanide. Mango skin is not toxic for dogs, but it can be hard for them to digest.
Can dogs eat cantaloupe?
Yes, dogs can eat cantaloupe. This melon is a good source of fiber and is rich in vitamins A, C, and B6. Like watermelon, cantaloupe is low in calories and high in water content, so it’s excellent for hydrating your pup. It also has a substantial sugar content, so should only be shared with your dog in moderation. While cantaloupe seeds are non-toxic, it’s better to avoid the rinds since they are tough and can cause gastrointestinal problems or be a choking hazard.
Can dogs eat cherries?
No, dogs should not eat cherries. Although the flesh of cherries isn’t unsafe for your dog to eat, the pits, stems, and leaves all contain cyanide, which can prevent oxygen transport to red blood cells in dogs and potentially be lethal. If your dog has eaten any cherries, watch for rapid breathing, dilated pupils, and bright red gums. The pits can also cause an intestinal blockage if they’re stuck in the dog’s digestive tract. While your dog might savor the sweet taste, cherries for dogs are not worth the risk.
Interested in more?
