With the summer sun blissfully shining above, all we want to do some days is relaxing. Sitting in the garden, whilst enjoying a fresh fruit, can be a real chill-deal. With our best friend, the furry one that is, wagging their tail and begging for a bite, we’re not quite sure. Doubts creep in as we’re questioning the idea whether dogs can eat fruits.
The benefits of fruits for humans are widely known. We are all aware of the healthy vitamins and minerals supply fruits presenting us with. We are also aware of the fact that dogs as such can eat pretty much anything you give them. That doesn’t mean though that it is actually good for them. Canines have for long been domesticated, and their diet, therefore, is mostly our responsibility.
Fruits Good for Dogs
Let’s see, which fruits are good for our dogs and why. What we need to consider before giving them. Here’re the 6 most popular.
1. Banana
This delicious fruit makes a great snack. It is a snack as in ‘don’t give too much of it’. Due to its rich sugar content, it should be given only in moderation. When given as a snack, it is definitely a healthy one. Bananas are a wonderful source of fiber, copper, vitamin C, vitamin 6, manganese, and potassium. They can ward off hunger and help recover the muscles, making it a good treat during a long walk or after a vigorous exercise.
Due to its high potassium content, dogs who suffer from heart conditions should be given very little of this fruit. It is a good idea to consult your vet beforehand in that case.
2. Apple
This is a fruit that should be given in moderation. When feeding your dog apple divide it into comfortable bits and give a small amount. Seeds should be avoided. Also, make sure to cut out the sharp elements, those that are near the middle. They can be quite annoying for humans and might cut into the dog’s palate.
The core of the apple, including its seeds and stem, is important to avoid also for another reason. It contains the highly poisonous cyanide. Knowing that, never give your dog a whole apple to chew on.
It is important to mention that apples are brimming with vitamins and minerals. They have an additional, unique benefit. They can serve as a cheaper version of dental chews.
3. Strawberry
Same as with the two previous fruits, these should be given to dogs in moderation. Rich with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, these beauties are delicious to your carnivorous friend. Strawberries, along with a few other types of berries, are highly beneficial. They are a true powerhouse of nutrients. Just make sure to take off the stem and leaves.
Strawberries for dogs are best served on their own, as oppose to how some people love it – topped up with the delicious sweetness of cream or chocolate. None of this for your pooch, merely plain berries.
4. Orange
This fruit should not be at the top of your list of fruits to give to your dog. Again, moderation is key. Sometimes, when a dog exercises too vigorously, it might affect their vitamin C production. In such a case, it is a good idea to help their body by providing additional supply. Dogs with diabetes, though, are better off without oranges at all.
When giving your pet this fruit, bear in mind that each different sized animal takes a different amount of orange. Smaller pups should have about a quarter to a third of a medium sized fruit. Larger pets can gobble up to a whole one.
5. Pineapple
Some dog owners find themselves in a sticky wicket. They have to deal with their pet eating its own feces. This is called coprophagia and, apparently, can be dealt with by eating pineapples. Veterinarians claim that by feeding your dog pineapples you can brick the back of the beast, so to say. As it turns out, digested pineapples smell so badly when coming out of the rear end, that it revolts dogs. Coprophagia can be cured by more conventional ways too.
Pineapples are also a great source of minerals, vitamins, and fiber. They also contain Bromelain, an enzyme helping your dog’s digestive system break down proteins with further efficiency. Never, under any conditions, feed a dog pineapple skin.
6. Watermelon
This fruit has more friends than enemies. It seems sometimes that everyone is a fan of watermelon, dogs included. You can surely feed them watermelon as long as it is without seeds. These can cause a canine serious intestinal blockage. As it is so rich in fluids and low in calories, watermelon can be a great thing to have on a hot day.
The inside is loaded with fruit and goodness. It contains magnesium, beta-carotene, vitamin A, potassium, and vitamin C. Given in moderation, it will largely benefit your thirsty pooch. It will strengthen their immune system and bring a delicious freshness after a strenuous running.
To Sum Up
The 6 fruits discussed above are all safe for your dog to eat. Moderation is the key. Rich in minerals, fiber, and vitamins they, generally speaking, help the dog’s immune system and are a great snack, both refreshing and healthy.
Remember to take out the seeds, sharp skin, and anything else which might harm your dear pet. Make sure to give them fruits in little bits and small amounts.
It is never too much emphasis to mention again that the seeds of the fruits are highly toxic to dogs. They must be avoided. Fruits with large pits demand special attention because the pits can cause intestinal obstruction. In severe cases, that might lead to emergency surgery.
Guest Writer: Michele Hersh is a dog lover, writer, and blogger. She mostly writes about dog health and nutrition based on her own experience. She is a nurse and lives with her husband and a cute Beagle puppy. Visit her website peanutpaws.com.