Fruits are often considered superfoods and with good reason. They provide fibre, vitamins and usually a great taste. However, while they might be good for us not all fruits are received as well by our four legged friends.
Can dogs eat bananas? Can dogs eat apples? Here is a brief list of what fruits you should and shouldn’t feed your dog.
Apple
Dogs love apples. Apples are a good source of vitamin A, C and fibre. They are also low in fat, calories and protein so make a good choice for older or overweight dogs. Remove the core and seeds for the sake of the dogs digestion. Find out more information on dogs and this tasty fruit here.
Avocado
You should avoid feeding your dog avocado. The pit and skin contain a toxin called persin which is known to cause diarrhea and vomiting in dogs.
Bananas
Can dogs can eat bananas? When eaten in small amounts they are low calorie, healthy treats. Bananas tend to be high in potassium, fibre, biotin and other vitamins which can benefit dogs. They are also low in sodium and cholesterol however they do have a high sugar content. Therefore bananas should be considered an occasional treat and not a regular part of a dogs diet. Click here for more information on bananas and dogs!
Blueberries
Blueberries are high in antioxidants which can help to prevent cell damage in dogs (and humans). They’re also high in fibre and phytochemicals while being relatively lower in sugar for a fruit. Therefore dogs can enjoy blueberries. As an added bonus your dog will enjoy being thrown them, it makes for a fun game.
Cherries
Dogs should be kept away from cherries. If your dog consumes some by accident keep your eye out for dilated pupils, troubled breathing and reddish gums as cherries can be toxic to dogs and these are some of the ways it manifests.
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are high in vitamin K,C, B1, potassium, magnesium and biotin. It is a veritable cocktail of goodness for your pooch as well as having a high water content to hydrate them. Cucumbers are good for dogs that struggle with obesity too due to the lack of carbohydrates and fats in them.
Grapes
Dogs should never eat grapes. Even small amounts can lead to serious illness. The toxicity of grapes to dogs is not well understood, we are unsure what compound causes dogs to feel sick. However, we do know that dogs tend to suffer with diarrhoea and vomiting as their body tries to purge itself of the poison. For this reason also avoid raisins as raisins are just dried grapes.
Oranges
Oranges are fine for dogs to consume but they often turn their nose up to the colourful treat as the citrus can be too strong for their sensitive noses. However, the vitamin C, potassium and fibre means it can be a healthy snack if your dog enjoys it. Without the peel of course.
Pears
Pears make a great snack being high in copper, vitamin C, vitamin K and fibre. Make sure to cut it into manageable pieces for your dog and remove seeds and the pit which can be a choking hazard.
Tomatoes
Avoid giving your dog any kind of tomato. While when ripe it is generally considered to be safe any green patches contain solanine which can be toxic to dogs. It would probably take a lot of tomato to make a dog seriously ill but it is wise to err on the side of caution and avoid altogether.
Watermelon
Dogs love watermelon, without the seeds and rind of course. Packed with vitamin A, B6, C and potassium and with a very high water content, watermelon is a healthy snack to keep your dog hydrated in the summer. For an extra special treat try freezing some to make a healthy ice lolly for your dog.
Does Your Pooch Have a Favourite Fruit?
What’s your pooches’ favourite fruit? Let us know in the comments!
