Dogs and Fruit

Fruits are great, but there are certain do’s and don’ts we must be wary of…

Abstract:

Yes: Apple, Banana, Blackberries, Blueberries, Cantaloupe, Pear, Pineapple, Raspberries, Strawberries

If you remove pits: Apricot, Peach, Plum, Mango

NO! : Avocado, Currant, Grapes, Raisins

Fruits can be a great snack for dogs and humans alike as they tend to be packed with vitamins, antioxidants and fiber. Fresh fruits tend to be a better treat than commercially available treats, but due to their high sugar content, fruits should be added to dog’s diet in moderation.

Supplementing your dog’s usual chow with fruit is a great idea, but there are certain things you should pay attention to. Give your dog a sugar and potassium rich banana and he’ll love it; but feed him an avocado and you’re gambling with his life…

How to introduce fruits into your dogs diet:

When preparing fruit treats you should always check that the fruit is safe for dogs, as some fruits can cause serious problems or even kill your dog.

While preparing the fruit take care to wash it, peel it and cut it into bite sized chunks. Remove any seeds or pits (choking hazard, bowel obstruction and often contains cyanide). You should always check for any surface mold; if any is found, discard the fruit altogether.

Introduce the fruit treats gradually while looking for any side effects. Just like humans, dogs can have food sensitivities or even allergies. Even if the fruit is on the list of foods dogs can eat, caution and moderation is advised.

Foods which are OK:

Apple (High in fibre, low in fat. Remove the seeds.) Banana (Rich in potassium and carbohydrates. High in sugar.) Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries (Rich in antioxidant, and full of vitamins.) Cantaloupe (Rich in water and fiber. High in Sugar.) Pear (Contains vitamins C and K. Remove the seeds.) Pineapple (Contains vitamins, zinc and folate. High in sugar.) Strawberries (Contains manganese, iron, copper, magnesium. High in sugar; contains a protein which can cause allergic reaction (swelling of the dog’s lips) )

Foods which are OK after you remove pits:

Apricot, Peach, Plum (Full of antioxidant, vitamins C, E and K)

Mango (Contains vitamins A, B6, C and E)

Toxic to dogs:

Avocado, Currant, Grapes, Raisins

In conclusion, fruits are great; but you need to keep track of what and how much you give to your dog. Often too much of a good thing can be worse than nothing.

Stay PAWSM, be awesome!