Can dogs eat fruit? A guide for pet parents
It’s no secret that some of our favourite media personalities are now proud pet parents.
From socialite Ayanda Thabethe to award-winning artist Boity and digital content queen Mihlali Ndamase, these powerhouses are embracing their roles as "fur moms".
The adorable snaps of their pets are enough to make anyone want to join the club. However, if you're considering becoming a pet parent or already are one, there’s more to it than just the cute Instagram-worthy pictures.
As a potential dog owner myself, I often find myself wondering: Can dogs eat what we eat? This question pops up most often when it comes to fruits.
After all, they’re healthy for us, so why not our pups? Well, it’s a little more complicated than that.
Let’s break it down in a fun and easy way, so you can safely treat your furry friend and maybe channel some of that influencer energy along the way.
Can dogs eat fruit?
The short answer is it depends on the fruit. While dogs can safely eat certain fruits, others are downright dangerous.
Dogs are omnivores, which means they can eat both animal and plant-based foods, but their digestive systems aren’t equipped to handle every human snack.
According to PetMD, fruits can be a fun and healthy treat for dogs, but they’re not a necessary addition to their diet.
High-quality commercial dog food already contains all the nutrients they need. Still, fruits can be a great way to bond and add a little excitement to their meals.
Dog-friendly fruits
Here’s a round-up of fruits your dog can enjoy safely, along with their benefits:
Apples: Crunchy, sweet, and packed with vitamins A and C, apples make a great low-calorie snack for your dog. They also contain fibre and antioxidants.
But remember to remove the stem, core and seeds as they can be choking hazards or toxic. Slice them into small pieces for easy munching.
Bananas: They are a potassium powerhouse and a good source of fibre and vitamins B6 and C. However, they’re higher in sugar than many fruits, so moderation is key. Also, skip the peel as it’s hard for dogs to digest.
Blueberries: These tiny berries are a superfood for dogs. Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C and fibre, blueberries make a delicious, low-calorie snack. They’re also easy to toss around during playtime for a bonus.
Cantaloupe and honeydew: Both melons are hydrating and low in calories, making them a refreshing treat. They’re rich in vitamins A and C and contain fibre and potassium. Just be sure to remove the rind and seeds before serving.
Strawberries: These sweet berries are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Mash them up for smaller dogs or cut them into bite-sized pieces to avoid choking.
Mangoes: Juicy and tropical, mangoes are full of vitamins A, B6, C and E. But they’re also high in sugar, so limit them to occasional treats. Don’t forget to remove the pit and skin.
Cranberries: These tart little berries are bursting with antioxidants and fibre. They’re not just safe for dogs but are considered a superfood for humans, too.
Never feed your fur baby the following fruit:
Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts. If your dog has eaten any, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Avocado: While the flesh isn’t technically toxic, avocado contains persin, which can be harmful to dogs in large quantities. Plus, the pit is a choking hazard.
Wild berries: Not all berries are safe. Wild berries can easily be mistaken for toxic varieties, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
How much fruit can your dog have?
Here’s the golden rule: treats, including fruit, should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s diet.
The exact amount depends on your dog’s size, weight and health. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods, especially if your dog has conditions like obesity, diabetes or bladder stones.
Even with safe fruits, too much can lead to gastrointestinal issues like:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Gas
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, stop feeding them fruit and contact your vet.