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If you’re anything like us, you love to do everything with your dog! Walking, sleeping, watching movies, going for a drive… Doggos make for the perfect sidekick to make any activity more enjoyable. But when it comes to eating, not everything can be shared.
Let's take a look at the top 10 fruits safe for dogs. We'll answer the tough questions like - Is pineapple good for dogs? Can dogs have pineapple?
What Fruits Are Safe for Dogs?
Many dog owners make the mistake of assuming that if a fruit is safe for humans, it must be safe for their pooch too. Right?
Wrong. He might make it difficult to say no, especially when he looks up at you with those big puppy dog eyes, but certain foods are dangerous for him to consume. Some fruits can even be toxic! Luckily, however, there are plenty of fruits that are safe for dogs to eat, but some aren't so good for canines. What fruits can dogs not eat?
A dog has an entirely different digestive system and requires a specific type of diet to stay healthy and fit. And as animal parents, we want to keep our dogs eating safely at all costs. That’s why it’s super important to know what you can and cannot share with your dog. Certain fruits like grapes (or raisins), avocados, cherries, and grapefruit can be big no-nos for dogs!
The good news is there are a number of fruits safe for dogs to enjoy with you, and they have great health benefits as well! In this article, we’ll discuss the top 10 fruits safe for dogs or what fruits can dogs eat that are high in fibre and vitamin content.
What Fruits Can Dogs Eat?
To us, fruit is a healthy and tasty snack, and while dogs don't need a lot of fruit in their diet, they can benefit from these nutrient-rich people foods. Find out which of the many fruits are not only safe for dogs but are a beneficial addition to your dog's diet.
1. Can Dogs Eat Apples?
Can dogs eat apples? Absolutely!
If an “apple a day keeps the doctor away” for humans, what does it do for dogs? In moderation, apples are a delicious and nutritious snack for dogs to eat and enjoy for several reasons. As you can likely see already, there are plenty of fruits safe for dogs that are high in fibre and vitamin content.
Benefits of Apples
Many dogs really enjoy the crunchy texture of apples. Biting into a piece of apple helps clean residue off their teeth and gums while also improving their breath. They’re also rich in vitamins A and C to promote a strong immune system, shiny coat, and healthy heart.
Apples are also very fibrous and contain pectin, which is a naturally produced sugar acid in certain fruits and vegetables dogs eat. Fibre and pectin both aid in healthy digestion and gut health.
Because of their high sugar content, apples should always be given to your dog occasionally. It’s also key to note that dogs should never consume apple seeds or cores. They can contain cyanide, which is hazardous to dogs.
How to Feed Your Dog Apples
When you want to feed your pup a juicy apple slice, be sure to know the correct portion size for her!
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Apple Recipe for Dogs
Apples go great with many other best fruits and vegetables for dogs and human foods, but we especially love this dog treat recipe! Apple pumpkin bars make for a yummy treat your best bud will love.
As we explained, apples are loaded with essential nutrients and vitamins. They are one of the healthy fruits can dogs eat and enjoy! Pumpkins are too! Check out our other blog to learn more about the health benefits of pumpkins for dogs.
What You Need
- 1 medium-sized apple (diced)
- ¾ cups pumpkin puree
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
This special treat is quick and easy to make! First, preheat your oven to 375℉ and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients starting with the flour dogs eat and then moving on to the apples and wet ingredients. Mix it all together until you have a firm dough.
Roll the dough out onto a sheet of wax or parchment paper. Use a cookie cutter or knife to make fun shapes. We love using a bone-shaped cookie cutter.
Transfer the cookie dough to your prepared baking sheet. If the cookie dough contains pumpkin seeds then cook them for at least 25 minutes until your apple pumpkin cookies are nice and crisp! Be sure to allow time for the cookies to cool off before feeding them to your pet.
Store your cookies for up to one week in an airtight container (more if you store them in the fridge).
2. Can Dogs Eat Bananas?
Can dogs eat bananas? Yes!
Just as they are good for us humans, bananas are a nutritious treat for our dogs!
Benefits of Bananas
If you have an active or working dog, bananas are an excellent source of electrolytes, natural sugars, and carbohydrates that aid sore muscles and work as a natural energy booster after exercising. Bananas are high in potassium content, the rich nutrients and amino acids in bananas work to balance internal fluids and help keep your pooch’s muscles strong and lean.
Bananas are also a great source of fibre, which offers all kinds of health benefits for doggies. Fibre can help manage your dog’s weight and promote healthy digestion.
Just half a banana can work as a natural remedy if your dog is struggling with diarrhea to firm up loose stools. Because bananas are high in soluble fibre, it’s best to stick to just the recommended half dosage and see how your dog feels after. For some, too much banana can cause a doggo to become constipated.
How to Feed Your Dog Bananas
It’s important to know the right portion size and how often your dogs can enjoy bananas based on their size!
Feeding Guidelines
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Banana Recipe for Dogs
If you want to treat your doggo to fruits, bananas are an awesome ingredient to combine with other dog-friendly human foods. Here is a super simple recipe for a dog treat that he’ll really enjoy with just three ingredients! These banana, peanut butter, and oat treats are a total hit!
What You Need:
- 1 ripe banana
- ½ cup natural peanut butter with no added preservatives, sugar, or oils
- 1 and ½ cups gluten-free rolled oats
Instructions:
First, you’re going to want to get started by preheating your oven to 350℉. Prepare a baking sheet with some parchment paper.
This recipe works best if you blend your rolled oats in a food processor or blender so that it turns into fine flour. Or you can always use oat flour as an alternative. Blend it up and set it aside for later!
Next, smash together the peanut butter and banana in a medium/large mixing bowl. Add in your oat flour and mix it all up until you have a thick dough. If it has any lumps or looks crumbly, add a little more peanut butter and mix again.
Roll out your dough and make a thin ¼ inch slab! Cut it into shapes using a cookie cutter (we use ones shaped like a bone!) If you don’t have a cookie cutter, you can always roll the dough into balls that are about 1 tablespoon each in size and flatten them into circular cookies.
Bake them for 15 minutes until they’re lightly brown. Be sure to let them cool off for 10 to 15 minutes before feeding them to your pup. These yummy treats will keep for up to 2 weeks if you store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator!
Looking for pet-safe peanut butter? Check out Hero Dog Treats Peanut Buddy line for some convenient and delicious peanut butter options.
3. Can Dogs Eat Blueberries?
Can dogs eat blueberries? You bet!
Blueberries are a perfect bitesize snack for your dogs to enjoy that are as refreshing as they are delicious!
Benefits of Blueberries
Blueberries are loaded with essential nutrients and vitamins, which make them a superfood for dogs (and humans too!). Although they don’t contain nearly as much as bananas, blueberries offer a little fibre to aid in digestion. But what makes blueberries so great for our furry friends is the fact that they’re rich in antioxidants and other immune-boosting nutrients.
Antioxidants fight against free radicals that can be found in many beta-carotene dog foods and can cause damage to your dog’s body. The antioxidants in blueberries paired with selenium, zinc, and vitamins C, E, and K work to strengthen your dog’s natural defence system and prevent future health issues.
It is important to keep in mind that blueberries are high in natural sugars, so you should feed them in moderation to your dog based on their size. Too much sugar can upset your dog’s stomach, and cause serious imbalance in the healthy bacteria which can cause urinary tract infections. This can lead to vomiting and diarrhea, and in worse cases inflammation in parts of the body. Be sure to follow the right guidelines when feeding your doggo blueberries!
Blueberries are often used in dog food and treats due to their antioxidants and flavour. You'll find them in combination with dried cranberries on many dog food ingredient lists. One of our favorites is Grandma Lucy's Organic Blueberry Oven-Baked Treats.
How to Feed Your Dog Blueberries
Your dog can enjoy blueberries in moderation based on their size!
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Blueberry Recipe for Dogs
When it comes to feeding your dog blueberries, they’re great fresh or frozen. But if you want to go above and beyond for your pooch (which we all love to do), this blueberry muffin recipe is a fun and easy way to do so!
While regular blueberry muffins are made with baking soda and/or baking powder to help them get nice and fluffy, these ingredients can be toxic to dogs. Blueberry muffins for dogs are made with the following safe ingredients.
What You Need:
- 1 cup of fresh blueberries
- 1 cup of rolled oats
- 1 cup of whole wheat flour
- ½ cup of applesauce (unsweetened and no sugar added)
- 2 eggs (yolk and whites separated)
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions:
To make these dog-friendly blueberry muffins, you’ll want to first preheat your oven to 350℉ and lightly grease your muffin pan (the smaller the better) with a little bit of olive oil – which is okay for dogs to consume.
Mix together the rolled oats and flour in a large bowl. Stir in the wet ingredients (applesauce, egg yolks, and water) and mix until thick.
Carefully add the blueberries to the mixture. Try not to turn them into mush when mixing them in!
Next, beat the egg whites until they’re stiff. It’s best to use an electric mixer for this step. Then fold the egg whites into the mixture.
Using a spoon, scoop the batter into your mini muffin pan and bake for 25 minutes or until your batter is lightly browned. Let them cool off before serving your pet.
These can be stored in your refrigerator for up to 3 weeks in an airtight container! They can also be frozen.
4. Can Dogs Eat Mango?
Can dogs eat mango? Yessiree!
Mangoes are such a yummy treat during summertime. Your dog might think so too! These vibrant and delicious fruits are safe for your pup to enjoy in moderation.
Benefits of Mango
Mangoes are tasty just as they are or in a smoothie… but they also make for a sweet and tangy treat for your pups! Plus, mangoes have great nutritional value including vitamins A, B6, C, and E.
Your pet will also benefit from the potassium, beta-carotene, and flavonoids that mangoes offer. Beta-carotene and flavonoids have an antioxidant effect and are helpful for your dog’s eye health and skin.
Similar to the other fruits and vegetables we’ve already discussed, mangoes should be given to your dog in moderation due to their high sugar content. It is also important to make sure your dog doesn’t eat the skin or pit of the mango. In fact, it’s wise to feed your dog slices that are closer to the skin to avoid any possible trace of cyanide from the pit.
How to Feed Your Dog Mango
As always, be sure to check the feeding guidelines for your dog’s size before giving your dog mango.
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Mango Recipes for Dogs
Mangoes are best served fresh or frozen, but if you’re looking for an easy way to treat your dog to something extra special, we found this safe and appetizing recipe! Cook this mango chicken dinner for your furry friend for their birthday or other special occasions.
What You Need:
- 1 cup fresh mango (chopped)
- 4 oz boneless chicken breast (shredded)
- ¾ cup of oat or wheat flour
- 1 egg (optional)
Instructions:
Your dog is going to be salivating over this mango chicken dish. To get started, first preheat your oven to 350℉ and prep your baking sheet with parchment paper. Next, combine all of your ingredients and fruit pieces except the egg in a large bowl and mix it together. Add the egg if the mixture is too dry.
The next step is to knead the mixture gently into a ball. Roll the dough out onto wax or parchment paper until you have a slab that is ¼ inch thick. Using a cookie cutter (again, we love using our bone-shaped cutter), cut your dough into shapes.
Transfer your chicken bites onto your prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool off before serving your pet! Bone-Appetit, mango chicken patties for your well-deserving doggo.
If needed, you can store the remaining pieces in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 to 3 days.
5. Can Dogs Eat Oranges?
Can dogs eat oranges? Yes!
While many dogs do not like the sour taste of citrus fruits, oranges are okay to contain small amounts for those that do!
Benefits of Oranges
In limited amounts, oranges can provide your dog with vitamins C, A, and B6, potassium, and other beneficial nutrients. Too much citrus, however, can throw off the pH balance in your dog’s stomach.
Although dogs can get these things from other ingredients in their diet, the flavonoids and phytonutrients, as well as the folic acid in oranges are essential to a dog’s health. Flavonoids and phytonutrients are antioxidants that can strengthen your dog’s immune system and fight illness. Folic acid is necessary for the breakdown of amino acids in your dog’s body and helps with digestion.
Keep in mind that oranges and other citrus fruits should be fed in small amounts to your pet. If you overdo it, the high sugar content in citrus fruits and vegetables can cause your dog to have an upset stomach. Avoid feeding your dog the peel, seeds, or leaves. These can be very harmful!
Oranges aren't the most common fruit to find in commercial dog foods, but there are a few brands that have embraced the citrus, like Farmina Dog Food!
How to Feed Your Dog Oranges
As we already mentioned, it’s important to feed your dog limited amounts of oranges in moderation. And as you would with any human food, be sure to know the safety guidelines for feeding your dog any type of citrus fruit.
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Oranges Recipe for Dogs
Because oranges are a fruit your dog should eat pretty sparingly, we suggest making orange popsicles that can be easily be stored in your freezer. You can then share with your pup every now and then. While other fruit popsicles are made with plain yogurt, we like to keep our frozen orange treats a little more simple to keep the sugar content to a minimum and make sure they last for much longer!
What You Need:
- 1 large orange
- ½ cup of water
Instructions:
This frozen dog treat recipe is so easy! Just cut the orange into slices, remove the seeds and peels, and combine with water in your blender or food processor. Blend it until you have a smooth liquid. Pour the liquid into your ice tray or mould and freeze! Share with your dog every couple of months… if you don’t eat them all yourself first!
Like a popsicle, you need a stick, right? Grab a few of your dog's favourite sure-to-remove natural chew or cookies to freeze into the treats. These will make it easy to remove from the tray and will give you something to hold onto while your dog enjoys his icy snack.
6. Can Dogs Eat Peaches?
Can dogs eat peaches? Yes, they can!
Fresh slices of peach are A-OK for your dog to eat! She might really enjoy them too.
Benefits of Peaches
Another great pleasure of summer, peaches are delicious and nutritious for your dog to enjoy. They’re full of antioxidants to fight against inflammation and other ailments. Plus, they’re an excellent source of vitamins A, E, and B-complex.
Peaches are also high in fibre, zinc, copper, phosphorus, potassium, and iron! Iron helps with blood flow to deliver essential nutrients to parts of the body. Puppies need lots of iron to help them grow, but all dogs need iron in their diet. While they mostly absorb iron from meat or hardy vegetables in their diet, peaches can provide large quantities of another source of this important mineral if needed.
Be sure to remove the pit, or stone, as some call it, before feeding your dog as this, can be a choking hazard or dangerous to their digestive tract. It’s best to cut the peach flesh up into small pieces for your dog to easily swallow.
How to Feed Your Dog Peaches
Like the other fruits listed above, peaches can be very high in sugar. For this reason, it’s important to be mindful of your dog’s size when measuring how much to give him. Be sure to feed peaches in moderation.
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Peaches Recipe for Dogs
If your dog loves to eat peaches, she’ll love this yummy, dog-friendly peach recipe! These biscuits are easy to make and great for peach-lovin’ pups!
What You Need:
- ¼ cup of peaches (diced, DO NOT use canned peaches!)
- 2 cups of rolled oats
- ¾ cups of water (divided in half)
- 1 cup of whole wheat flour
- 1 tbsp of honey (optional)
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
To get started making these special oatmeal peach biscuits, preheat your oven to 350℉ and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine your oats and ½ cup of water in a large bowl and set aside.
Next, combine peaches, ⅛ cup of water, and honey (which is all natural and helps fight cancer) in your food processor or blender, and pulse until you have a smooth mixture. Pour the mixture into your bowl of oats and mix together. Add the cinnamon, flour, dog fruit, and the rest of the water (⅛ cup). Mix, mix, mix until all of the flavours are evenly distributed. If you find that it is difficult to mix the dough then you can use a surface like your kitchen counter to knead it!
Once your biscuit dough is combined, cut off little pieces and form 1-inch balls. Transfer these dough balls onto your prepped baking sheet and flatten with a spoon or your fingers. You can also cut shapes like bones or doggie paws for large quantities of extra cuteness!
Bake the biscuits for 15 minutes. Let them cool before feeding your dog.
This makes about 24 dog biscuits, so you’ll definitely have extra to store for later! Keep them in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer to keep them fresh.
7. Can Dogs Eat Pears?
Can dogs eat pears? Yes!
Pears are another healthy fruit that your dog can enjoy with you. They’re crunchy, sweet, and beneficial to your dog’s health!
Benefits of Pears
There are a number of reasons why pears are excellent snacks for your dog to eat! Pears are chock full of vitamins including vitamins B6, C, and K, and other essential nutrients such as copper, magnesium, and potassium. Finally, pears are high in fibre!
Vitamin C keeps your dog’s immune system strong and can be a preventative of infection, certain diseases, and cancers, while vitamin K is excellent for healthy bones, especially for active or aging doggos. Vitamin B6 is needed for proper brain function and balancing hormones, which affects your dog’s mood. In other words, vitamin c pears can keep your dog feeling happy!
A few slices of pears provide your dog with lots of potassium! This mineral is an electrolyte that keeps your dog’s heart function healthy. That's why we are starting to see pears more prominently featured in high-quality dog diets, like Nulo Freeze-Dried Duck and Pear formula.
Magnesium is another super useful nutrient that can be found in pears. It helps your dog absorb other vitamins and nutrients, while also boosting his immune system health!
Because of their high sugar and fibre content, eating too many pears can cause a dog to have an upset stomach, diarrhea, or other issues. For this reason, it’s best to feed pears in moderation! Also, don’t feed any pears with the seeds or core. Similar to apples, pear seeds and pits have cyanide, which can be dangerous for your dog to consume in large amounts.
How to Feed Your Dog Pears
Many dogs really enjoy pears! Their crunchy texture, subtly sweet taste, and nutrient-dense content make them great treats. Be sure to follow the right feeding guidelines for your dog’s size and needs!
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Pear Recipe for Dogs
Pears certainly pair well with other nutritious foods to make for an excellent dog treat. This next frozen snack you can make at home and keep on hand for when your furry pal has been extra well-behaved! The other ingredients in this treat are all safe for your dog to enjoy and loaded with vitamins and minerals that are essential to her health!
What You Need:
- 1 pear (chopped into small pieces)
- 1 apple (chopped into small pieces)
- 2 cups of spinach
- 1 cup of celery (chopped into small pieces)
- 1 cup of water
Instructions:
Much like the watermelon and fresh pineapple popsicles, this recipe is easy as pie and takes barely any time at all! First, combine your ingredients in a large food processor or blender and pulse until you have a smooth mixture.
Transfer the mixture to your ice tray and freeze for 4 to 5 hours (or until frozen). Keep these yummy popsicles in an airtight container and allow your pup one or two occasionally.
8. Can Dogs Eat Pineapple?
Can dogs eat pineapple? Without a doubt!
Many dog owners might not think to feed their dogs pineapple. Little do they know! Can dogs eat pineapple? Yes, they can and it is an excellent treat for them to enjoy! It is not only sweet and juicy, but it can really boost your dog’s health.
Benefits of Pineapple
Pineapples consist of several vitamins, including vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, B6, and B9 high in fibre! While vitamin C is an excellent immunity booster and antioxidant, it can also assist your dog in regulating the vitamin C that they make on their own. B vitamins have various health benefits for dogs that eat fruit, including maintaining energy levels and aiding metabolism. Instead of wondering, can dogs eat fruits like raw pineapple, feel free to let them indulge!
Another essential nutrient to all animals that can be found in raw pineapple chunks is manganese. This healthy element is beneficial for a number of reasons. It boosts digestion and it’s chock full of antioxidants. It works to absorb proteins and carbohydrates, while also activating the enzymes that help your pet’s body make use of the fatty acids in their daily diet. Manganese also promotes bone health and normal hormone production.
Additionally, pineapple chunks contain something called bromelain, which is a digestive enzyme that makes it easier for your dog to metabolize proteins. For this reason, a small amount of pineapple balances well with a meat-rich or high-protein diet, like Smack Pet Food.
A few things to note when feeding your dog pineapple! Don’t let your dog eat the rind, core, or crown of the pineapple! They can be a choking hazard or just really harsh on her tummy. Stick to the flesh of the pineapple. Also, dogs that eat fruit should only have pineapple chunks in moderation because of their high sugar content. Too much of this sweet treat can cause certain pet care health issues..
How to Feed Your Dog Pineapple
Your dog will be thanking you for treating them to some pineapple. However, please do not make the common mistake of giving Hawaiian pizza to your dog even though it contains pineapple. As pizza contains a lot of other ingredients that can be harmful to your dog.
Also, keep in mind the following guidelines to feed the right amount and at the right frequency.
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Pineapple Recipe for Dogs
Can dogs eat pineapple? One of the most popular ways that dog owners choose to serve their dog pineapple is by making popsicles! Similar to the orange recipe above – pineapple popsicles are a great way for your dog to cool down and enjoy this nutrient-dense fruit.
What You Need
- 2 cups of pineapple (sliced into small chunks)
- ¼ cup of plain natural yogurt
If you choose to feed pineapple for its digestive benefits, then consider using raw goat’s milk instead of plain natural yogurt. The healthy bacteria in goat’s milk will provide an added boost to your dog’s digestive system and immune systems.
Learn more about goat’s milk in The Amazing Benefits of Goat’s Milk
Instructions
Blend together your pineapple and yogurt and transfer them into your moulds! Stick the ice tray in the freezer and after 4 to 5 hours, you’ll have a tasty and refreshing treat you and your doggo can enjoy together!
Be sure to store them in an airtight container in the freezer so that they keep their flavour!
9. Can Dogs Eat Strawberry
Can dogs eat strawberries? Certainly!
Delicious and fresh strawberries are another fruit that you and your dog can both enjoy. Best in the summer, a juicy strawberry is a great and refreshing snack when the sun is out.
Benefits of Strawberries
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, but low in calories, which makes them a tasty treat for your doggo to indulge in! They also contain high fibre, which helps your pup feel fuller and maintain a healthy digestive system as we mentioned before.
As a superfood for both humans and pets, strawberries help slow aging, are high in fibre, boost immune health, and keep your dog at a healthy weight. They are a good source of vitamin K, which aids your dog’s body with functions like blood clotting, and vitamin C, which fights free radicals and prevents illness. Iodine, potassium, magnesium, and folic acid are some of the other beneficial contents of strawberries.
Be sure to feed fresh strawberries and avoid canned strawberries or strawberry syrups. Or look for nutritious dog treats that offer nutrition from strawberries, like The Honest Kitchen Cod and Strawberry Crisps.
How to Feed Your Dog Strawberries
Whether you want to try out a new treat for your doggo or you’re just curious to see if she’d like it, strawberries are a safe, nutritious, and pooch-approved option to feed her. Remember – always check the feeding guidelines for your dog’s size so that you know the proper amount to give.
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Strawberry Recipe for Dogs
Who doesn’t love a yummy strawberry-banana combo? These two fruits together make for a delicious and super nutritious dog treat as well! This no-bake recipe is quick, easy and something your dog will drool over!
What You Need
- 4 large strawberries (sliced)
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup plain natural yogurt
- 1 ½ cups of oat or wheat flour
Instructions
Using a blender or food processor, combine all of your ingredients and pulse until you have a smooth mixture. Form the mixture into balls with your hands in whatever size you think is best for your pup. Place the dough balls on a plate or baking sheet. Just be sure whatever you use can fit in your refrigerator!
Allow your strawberry dough balls to chill and harden in the fridge for the best consistency before feeding them to your pet. Store in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer.
10. Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?
Can dogs eat watermelon? They sure can!
Watermelon is the ultimate summer treat, and it’s one that you can certainly share with your pet!
Benefits of Watermelon
After running around under the summer sun, your dog might really enjoy a nice juicy slice of watermelon! Along with other types of melons, watermelon is a great way to keep your dog hydrated. Watermelon is over 90% moisture, so watermelon is a great snack for preventing dehydration, especially on a hot summer day.
They are also rich in nutrients like vitamins B6, and B1, which are beneficial to eye health, as well as calcium, potassium, lycopene, and fibre.
Watermelon is also loaded with vitamin A. Dogs need vitamin A to support retinol and heart function. It is an essential vitamin to keep their skin, coat, nerves, and muscles in tip-top shape! Plus, it is especially important for pregnant females and newborn pups to promote healthy growth and development.
However, too much of a good thing for dogs to eat can be bad! Vitamin A is fat-soluble, which means that the excess vitamin A is stored in your dog’s body. This can eventually result in Vitamin A toxicity. Because vitamin A toxicity accumulates over time, your dog may not show symptoms of it until it’s too late.
For this reason, it’s important to not only measure the amount of watermelon you’re giving to your dog but also consider the amount of vitamin A they get from the rest of their regular diet. If they’re already getting a large amount, it’s recommended to keep the watermelon slices to a minimum and feed only occasionally!
Be sure not to feed your high amounts of seeds or the rind of a watermelon. It is dangerous for a dog to swallow these parts as they can cause issues in the digestive system and potential intestinal blockages.
How to Feed Your Dog Watermelon
If you haven’t tried feeding your dog watermelon, you definitely should! He might really enjoy it. Just be sure to know the proper feeding guidelines. Large amounts of watermelon are loaded with vitamins c and k.
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Watermelon Recipe for Dogs
If your dog loves a nice, cold treat after a long hot walk, try making frozen watermelon dog treats! Made with two simple ingredients, you might even enjoy them too!
Watermelon dog treats are super easy and quick to make. Keep them in your freezer as an extra special surprise for your pooch. This recipe can be made in large amounts.
What You Need:
- 2 cups of watermelon
- ¼ cup natural plain yogurt
- Ice cube trays!
Instructions
We love this recipe because it is so simple and fast! Slice your watermelon into small pieces and combine in a blender with the yogurt until it's nice and smooth. Pour the mixture into your ice cube tray and freeze!
Once they’re frozen, which typically takes just a few hours, transfer your mini watermelon popsicles into an airtight container and store them in your freezer.
For some real Instagram-ready frozen goodies, check out Big Country Raw's adorable frozen treat moulds. These food-grade silicone trays are easy to clean for pet parents and BPA-free!
More Dog-Safe Fruits
The list above is some of the most common, well-liked, and most nutritious fruits that are safe for dogs, but there are many more fruits you can offer your pooch to keep their routine fresh and ensure a wide range of nutrients from natural food sources. If you ar the type of person who likes a variety of exotic and tropical fruits, then you might be wondering - Can dogs eat Kiwi? What about avocados?
Here are a few more dog-safe fruits that you can try to incorporate into their diet:
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- Cantaloupe
- Cranberries
- Raspberries
- Coconut (flesh)
- Kiwi
- Cherries (flesh only)
- Papaya
- Oranges
- Avacado (flesh only)
All fruit should be fed in moderation, as dogs should be getting the majority of the nutrients from animal proteins and fats, but fruit is a great way to keep their meals fun and provide a wide variety of natural nutrients.
Many of these dog-safe fruits are safe for cats to eat too.
What Fruit is Bad for Dogs?
Most fruits are safe for dogs in the right portions. Fruit is naturally loaded with healthy fibre and essential vitamins, which is why you often see a fruit or two on the ingredient list of your dog's food. Fruit also makes great and healthy snacks for dogs, especially in homemade frozen dog treats, but it's always important to know which fruits you should skip.
Grapes
This is probably the most commonly known toxic fruit. Grapes, raisins, and currants all contain tartaric acid, which is suspected to be the reason for this fruit's toxicity. In fact, grapes are considered to be the most dangerous fruit for dogs.
Lemons & Limes
These citrus fruits aren't toxic, but they are very acidic and could lead to digestive issues. Lemons and limes do have plenty of health benefits, like a high vitamin C content, but there are plenty of dog-safe fruits that can provide your dog with valuable nutrients without risking your dog's digestion.
Stone Fruits
Stone fruits refer to a group of fruits that contain a stone or a pit. This includes cherries, apricots, peaches, mangoes, and plums. The flesh of these fruits is not toxic, which is why we have peaches on our list of safe fruits, but the stones and seeds are extremely toxic, which is why you should be cautious when preparing these fruits around your dog.
Fruit for Dogs in Moderation
Though not all fruits are safe to share, look for the ones that are both tasty and nutritious. Adding fresh produce is an excellent way to bolster your pet's bowl and provide water content variety in his diet.
You may even find many of these tasty and healthy fruits included in your dog's food and treats. Quantity is important too. While many fruits are dog-safe and nutritious, they are only required in small portions for your dog to get the benefit.
Too many fruits in your dog's diet can provide more sugar and calories than they need and will likely lead to some digestive issues. Always feed fruit in moderation alongside complete and balanced dog food.
Sharing your favourite fruits with your dog can be fun and safe to do! Just be sure to always double-check the feeding guidelines for the type of fruit and your dog’s requirements before you cut them a slice! We hope you find this guide a great source of the top 10 fruits your dog can eat safely.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog-Safe Fruits
Can I feed my dog fruit?
Yes, many fruits are safe and healthy for dogs in moderation. Always make sure the fruit is pet-safe before sharing.
What fruits are safe for dogs to eat?
Some safe fruits for dogs include apples (seedless), bananas, blueberries, strawberries, and watermelon (seedless). Always remove pits, seeds, and any harmful parts.
Are there fruits that are toxic to dogs?
Yes, some fruits like grapes, raisins, and cherries are toxic to dogs. Avoid feeding these fruits as they can be harmful.
How should I prepare fruit for my dog?
Wash fruits thoroughly, and remove seeds, cores, and any inedible parts. Cut fruits into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking or mash them to use as an easy-to-digest meal topper.
Can I feed my dog fruit as a treat or a part of their regular diet?
You can offer fruit as an occasional treat, but it should not replace a balanced dog food diet. Fruits should complement their regular meals and only be offered in small portions.
Are there any fruits I should be cautious about feeding my dog?
Yes, be cautious with fruits high in sugar and citrus fruits, and monitor your dog for any digestive upset. Also, introduce new fruits gradually to ensure your dog tolerates them well.
