What fruits can dogs eat?
It’s a good question and dog owners should know the answers to prevent catastrophe.
There are a number of fruits that are fine for dogs to eat.
But there are also plenty of fruits that are poisonous to dogs so it’s important to be informed.
In this article, we’ll hear from a number of different experts to find out what fruits dogs can eat.
If you suspect your dog has eaten a fruit that is poisonous to dogs, you should stop reading this article and call your vet immediately.
With the introduction over, let’s first hear from Dr Zach Mills, VP of Medical Performance with The Vets, who will provide a great insight into the question of what fruits dogs can eat.
Klee Kai next to a plate of strawberries (Photo: lifewithkleekai / Instagram )
What Fruits Can Dogs Eat?
Our veterinarians recommend diets that have received AAFCO (The Association of American Feed Control Officials) certification. If a pet food meets the AAFCO nutrient requirement for the specific life stage of an animal, it can receive a label stating that the food is “complete and balanced.” The AAFCO certification means that the food provides all the essential nutrients that your pet needs to maintain good health. At this time, fruit is not designated as an AAFCO ingredient. Pet owners should use caution if they choose to feed fruit to their pets. Some foods, even in small amounts, can also harm dogs. For example, grapes and raisins can cause kidney damage in dogs, and avocados can cause digestive problems. Additionally, some fruits have high sugar content which can lead to weight gain and other health problems if consumed in excess. Fruits can also contain seeds or pits that can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages if ingested by dogs.
Golden Retriever snacks on watermelon (Photo: Adobe Stock)
How Much Fruit Can a Dog Have? What symptoms should owners look for that their dog has an upset stomach?
Fruit, in any amount, can potentially lead to digestive upset, diarrhea, and/or vomiting. If your dog experiences digestive upset after eating fruit, some symptoms to watch for include: – GI upset, loss of appetite, or signs that the dog does not feel good, e.g., lethargy. – Vomiting: A dog might vomit after eating fruit, particularly if it ate too much, or ate a fruit that is toxic for dogs. – Diarrhea: Loose stools and diarrhea can be a sign that your dog’s digestive system is having trouble processing the fruit. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms after eating fruit, it’s important to contact your veterinarian for further guidance.
What Fruits Are Bad for Dogs?
Fruits that are bad/toxic to dogs and why? Fruits you should be careful feeding your dog and why?
• Grapes and Raisins: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
• Avocado: The different parts of the avocado can contain a toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
• Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes can cause upset stomachs in dogs due to their acidity.
• Cherries: Cherries can be toxic to dogs, and the pits and stems can cause intestinal blockages.
• Peaches and Plums: Peaches and plums contain pits that can cause intestinal blockages in dogs.
• Persimmons: Persimmons can cause intestinal inflammation and blockages.
• Rhubarb: Rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid, which can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large amounts. This is not an exhaustive list, rather a list of the most common fruits that one might encounter.
Husky holds apple in mouth (Photo: Adobe Stock)
What if my Dog Eats Something Toxic?
What steps should dog owners follow (i.e., call vet, poison control, etc) In addition to the fruits listed above, other foods that dogs should avoid include: alcohol, chocolate, caffeine, coconut, macadamia nuts, dairy, onions, garlic, chives, raw meats/bone/egg, salty foods, and foods that contain xylitol (an artificial sweetener). If you suspect that your dog has ingested something toxic, it’s important to act quickly to minimize the harm. Here are some steps you can take if your dog eats something toxic:
• Call Your Veterinarian: Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center as soon as possible. They can provide guidance on what to do next and help you determine if your dog needs medical attention. –
• Collect Information: Gather any information you have about what your dog ate, how much they ate, and when they ate it. This information can be helpful for your veterinarian in determining the best course of action.
• Watch for Symptoms: Keep an eye on your dog for any symptoms of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty breathing, or seizures.
• Do Not Induce Vomiting: Do not try to induce vomiting unless directed to do so by a veterinarian or poison control expert. In some cases, inducing vomiting can do more harm than good.
• Seek Medical Attention: If your veterinarian or poison control expert advises it, take your dog to the nearest animal hospital for treatment. Depending on the severity of the toxicity, your dog may need to be hospitalized for monitoring and supportive care. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your dog’s health. If you suspect that your dog has ingested something toxic, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
What Other Experts Have To Say
Dog opens wide for fruit and vegetables (Photo: Adobe Stock)
Tommy Wilde, Dog Trainer And Animal Expert At Floof Mania
First off, it’s important to note that while fruits can be a healthy addition to your furry friend’s diet, not all fruits are created equal. Some fruits can be downright dangerous for dogs, so it’s crucial to do your research before feeding anything to your pup. That being said, there are plenty of fruits that are safe and even beneficial for dogs to eat. Here are a few of my top picks:
• Apples: Apples are a great source of fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Just make sure to remove the seeds and core, as they can be harmful to dogs.
• Bananas: Bananas are high in potassium and fiber, making them a healthy treat for dogs. Just be sure to feed in moderation, as too much can cause constipation.
• Blueberries: Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and can help boost your dog’s immune system. Plus, they make for a tasty and low-calorie snack!
• Watermelon: Watermelon is a great source of hydration for dogs, especially during hot summer months. Just make sure to remove the seeds and rind before feeding.
Of course, every dog is different, so it’s always best to consult with your vet before introducing any new foods to their diet. But with a little research and common sense, you can safely and deliciously incorporate fruits into your pup’s diet.
Pomeranian looks at strawberry (Photo: Adobe Stock)
Daniel Caughill, Co-Founder Of The Dog Tale
Pineapple and papaya aren’t just sweet. They’re also known to help with bloating, gas, and indigestion, so they may help regulate your dog’s digestive tract.
Dr Joanna Woodnutt MRCVS, Veterinarian At The Veterinary Content Company
• Tomato – Did you know tomato is technically a fruit? Dogs can eat tomatoes as long as they’re fully ripe – green tomatoes and plants contain solanine which is mildly poisonous.
• Blueberries – Dogs can eat blueberries, but bear in mind they’re high in fibre and too many could cause gastric upset. Your best bet is to feed 2-3 blueberries for every 10kg of dog weight per day
• Blackberries – Dogs love blackberries, and you’ll even see some dogs picking them themselves! They turn the feces a funny color though, so be prepared! And one fruit dogs can’t eat
• Tamarind – Not many people know that dogs can’t eat tamarind fruit. Tamarind contains high levels of tartaric acid, which causes kidney failure in dogs. Tamarind fruit is often used in Indian recipes and is most commonly found in paste form, although the whole fruits are available in some specialist supermarkets.
Dan Capkin, A Dog Trainer/Expert For PetLovers.com
Dogs can eat a variety of fruits, which provide them with vitamins, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients. Some safe fruits for dogs include apricots, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, cherries (pitted), cranberries, dates, figs, grapefruit, apples (without seeds), oranges, pears, strawberries, and watermelon. When feeding fruits to your dog, be sure to remove seeds, peels, and pits, as they can be harmful. Also, start with small amounts and monitor your dog’s reaction to ensure they tolerate the fruit well.
Zack Keithy, Former Vet Tech And Editor At Daily Dog Drama
Dogs can safely eat a variety of fruits, including apples, bananas, blueberries, cantaloupe, cranberries, cucumbers, mango, oranges, peaches, pears, pineapple, raspberries, strawberries, and watermelon. However, it’s important to keep in mind that treats should not make up more than 5-10% of your dog’s diet and should only be given in small amounts and on occasion. Some fruits, like grapes, raisins, wild berries, and avocados, should be avoided as they can be toxic to dogs.
