Allowed fruits for dogs
It is natural that we want our dog to enjoy the same foods as us, especially during the summer when nature offers us a wide variety of seasonal fruits. Know that fruits and berries are healthy and safe for your dog.
90/10 rule for treats
Fruits should be given to your dog like any other treat or snack. Give a small portion. The treats you give your dog should not constitute more than 10% of the total calories he consumes per day. The other 90% should come from a complete and balanced dog food.
Strawberries
Dogs can eat strawberries, which actually have some characteristics and nutrients that can be beneficial for your dog, including:
- High water content
- Fiber
- Vitamin C
Strawberries (and some other berries) contain nutrients that act as antioxidants in the body. Studies show that they are beneficial for humans and other animals, but their benefit for dogs is not yet proven.
Blueberries and other berries
While blueberries are probably better for us than for our dogs, you can spoil your dog with these small and delicious summer berries. Blueberries have little sugar and low caloric value, making them a good snack.
Raspberries, blackberries, and cranberries are also safe for dogs. However, cranberries can be bitter, and dogs don’t like the bitter taste.
Not all berries are safe for your dog.
Some berries with pits can be dangerous. Always be careful and check if a food is safe before giving it to your dog.
Cherries
It’s best to avoid cherries because, in addition to having pits, they are a size that can cause problems for dogs. Also, almost all parts of the cherry – the stem, leaves, tree, bush – contain cyanide, which is toxic to dogs.
Peaches
Your dog can eat peaches, but you have to remove the pit because it contains cyanide, which can be dangerous for your dog.
Peaches contain Vitamin A, which is good for the eyes, skin, and immune system. If you decide to give your dog a peach, make sure to give it to him one slice at a time and in moderation.
Learn more about giving peaches to your dog.
Mango
You can only give mango to your dog if you remove the pit to avoid the risk of choking and causing damage to the digestive tract. If given with due care, mango can be a great summer snack. Mangos contain Vitamin A, which is good for the eyes, skin, and immune system. They also contain vitamin B6, which helps with energy and brain function, and Vitamins C and E, which have fantastic antioxidant properties. If you’re peeling and preparing a mango for yourself, you can give your dog a slice. However, like any other fruit, mango should be offered as a treat and always under supervision.
Grapes and raisins
Dogs cannot eat grapes or raisins! Despite seeming harmless, grapes and raisins are very dangerous for dogs. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure and should always be avoided. Always read food labels to ensure they don’t have raisins.
Apple
Whole, sliced, or cubed, apples are a great snack for you. Dogs can also eat apples, making them a good fruit to include in their snack routine. Learn more about giving apples to your dog.
Banana
Unlike other fruits, which may have toxic components, all parts of the banana are safe for your dog. While they may not be able to enjoy all the nutritional benefits of a banana like humans, bananas make a healthy and motivating snack for your dog. Learn more about how to give banana to your dog.
Orange
Dogs can eat oranges, but only the pulp. They cannot eat the peel, and all traces of skin, pits, and seeds should be removed because they can contain toxic components. Learn more about precautions when giving oranges to your dog.
Fruits in general
Allowed fruits for dogs and berries contain vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants and tend to have little sugar, so when given appropriately, they can be healthy for dogs, just as they are for humans.
They also contain a lot of water, making them refreshing. However, you should always have clean and fresh water available.
3 tips for serving fruit to dogs
Clean and wash the fruit just like you do for yourself and your family. Washing the fruit helps remove dirt and chemical residues.
Make the fruit easy to eat. Cut it into small pieces or mash it into puree. For larger dogs, serve in slices.
As some dogs may not understand the texture of fruit, you can try giving it as a frozen snack.
Always start by giving fruit to your dog gradually. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any digestive upset, itching in your dog, or if he becomes more thirsty.
Can fruit be part of a dog’s daily diet?
Now that you know the allowed fruits for dogs and if your dog loves fruit, you don’t have to give it to him just as a snack a few times a week. They are complete and balanced foods that your dog can enjoy daily.