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Can Dogs Eat Fruits? What Fruits Can Dogs Eat? (Answered)

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Dogs have long been thought to be carnivores. This is because dogs are thought to be domesticated from wolves, who are primarily meat-eaters. That being the case, even in the wild, wolves do eat plants and berries on a rare basis. Traces of berries and grasses have been found in the faeces of wolves, which goes to prove that they do eat plants. 

 


Much to our surprise, dogs are actually omnivores. That means, they derive their nutrients from both animal and plant-based diets. That being the case, a dog’s diet much like the diet of a wolf is mostly animal-based. Hence, you shouldn’t go out of your way to overfeed your dog too many plants. 

 


Though that is the case, dogs can digest plants and use the nutrients from plants to reap various benefits. At the end of the day, plants are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals.  

 


When it comes to fruits, they are usually high in sugar, hence moderation is very important to ensure that your dog doesn’t come across any health issues. Further to this, some varieties of fruits are not good for dogs and can be toxic. Hence you should avoid those fruits at all costs to ensure the safety of your pup. We will list out the fruits to avoid further down this article. 

 

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Can Dogs Eat Fruits?

Dogs are omnivores and can eat fruits and vegetables. Fruits are loaded with vitamins and minerals which are all beneficial for your pup. That being the case, some fruits do contain a high amount of sugar, hence moderation is very important. 

 


Eating too much fruit can lead to your dog experiencing symptoms like nausea and diarrhoea. This is because, though your dog is able to digest plants, they cannot digest it as well as they can digest animal-based foods. 

 


Dogs have a mostly animal-based diet, hence by way of evolution, their guts are more accustomed to eating meat as opposed to digesting plants. Over the course of domestication from wolves to dogs, dogs have adapted to more plants in their diet. Dog owners often feed vegetables and fruits in moderation and there is some real value in feeding your dog fruits. 

 

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Are Fruits Good for Dogs? (Benefits of Fruits for Dogs)

Fruits are loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, all that help your pooch fight away diseases. Antioxidants work to fight the actions of disease-causing free radicals and are powerful ingredients in the fight against abnormal cell growth. 

 


The various vitamins and minerals in fruits can all be very beneficial and is effectively absorbed in your pooch’s gut. Remember, dogs are omnivores. So when you feed them a small amount of fruit, they won’t just poop it out. They will digest it properly and absorb all the nutrients from them. These vitamins and minerals help support a host of activities in your pooch’s body. 

 


From improved cardiovascular health to better metabolism and a stronger immune system, the nutrients in fruits promote the function of more than one system in the body. Vitamin C and E that you find in fruits usually work to help promote the health of your dog’s skin and coat. Hence, not only will your dog be in good health on the inside, its outward appearance will too be better. 

 


Vitamin A and calcium that you find in fruits go to support the skeletal system. This means, your dogs will have stronger bones and teeth.

 


The fibre in fruits works to boost digestion and improve the health of the digestive system. Your pup’s poop will be healthier and they are less likely to suffer from constipation. 

 


In actuality, the benefits of fruits in your dog’s diet is endless. They help support the function of so many aspects of health that your dog would benefit in many ways from incorporating fruits into the diet in moderation. You don’t have to feed your dog fruits everyday. In fact, this isn’t recommended considering the amount of sugar fruits contain. 

 


You can feed your dogs fruits a few times a week in moderation. This is sufficient fruit in the diet for dogs to reap the various health benefits of fruits and stay healthy. 

 

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What Fruits Can Dogs Eat?

Fruits can be a great treat for your pooch, especially if your pooch is overweight and you are training them. They contain very few calories and is considered healthy for the dog, just so long as you know what fruits to actually feed your dog and what not to. Here is a list of common fruits that are considered safe for dogs. Remember, even though they are safe, you want to feed them fruits in moderation to prevent any health issues from arising.

 


1. Blueberries 

Dogs can eat blueberries and they are considered completely safe and beneficial for your pup. They are low in calories, which make them a perfect treat when training them. 

 


Blueberries are low in calories but are high in vitamin C which is great for your dog’s skin and coat. They also contain good amounts of fibre, antioxidants and phytochemicals. Antioxidants and phytochemicals are known to fight cancer cells in humans. 

 


The fibre content of blueberries is valuable for it allows effective digestion and promotes good digestive health. 

 


Blueberries have been proven to be effective in improving night vision. They help prevent cell damage and can be very beneficial for improving the mental function of ageing dogs. 

 


2. Strawberries

Strawberries are too very good for your dog and are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. They contain a good amount of vitamin C, which helps boost immune function and keep diseases at bay. 

 


Strawberries also contain a good amount of potassium which is a vital electrolyte for your dog’s health. Potassium works to aid the functioning of electrical charges in the heart, nerves and brain. This works to improve energy and activity. If your dog has a deficiency of potassium, you would find your dog to be more tired and lethargic than usual. They may even lose their desire to eat. 

 


Strawberries should be cut up into small pieces to avoid choking and can be fed mashed for smaller dogs. We do not recommend that you feed your dog an entire strawberry without chopping it, for this is a choking hazard. 

 


Strawberries are extremely nutritious and will work to keep your dog motivated during training. It works as a great treat and should be fed in moderation.

 

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3.  Watermelon

Dogs can eat watermelon, however, you do want to be careful not to feed it seeds. The seeds can be a choking hazard and could even cause blockage in the intestine. Hence, make sure to remove seeds from the watermelon and do not feed your dog watermelon rinds. 

 


Watermelon is about 92% water, hence is a great way to keep your pooch hydrated on hot summer days. It is very refreshing when frozen and it is more likely that your dog will really enjoy this treat. 

 


Watermelon contains a good amount of potassium and vitamins A, B6 and C. Vitamin C is an important aspect of immune health and will keep your pooch’s immune system strong. Vitamin A works to improve the health of bones and teeth, thereby improving skeletal health. 

 


Watermelon is sweet and doesn’t carry too many calories, which makes it a healthy treat for your pooch. 

 


4. Bananas

Dogs can eat bananas in moderation, however, they shouldn’t be fed the peel. The peel is too difficult for your dog to digest and can cause intestinal blockage if consumed. 

 


Bananas are a valuable source of potassium and fibre. The fibre enables better digestion and digestive health. The potassium in bananas works to improve your dog’s activity and mood and prevent laziness or better yet, tiredness. 

 


They are also a good source of vitamins B6 and C which helps improve the skin and coat. Vitamin B6 is actually very important in dogs and works to improve nervous system function, hormone regulation, improve immune response and is responsible for glucose generation and gene activation. They also improve the functions of red blood cells which works to improve respiratory and cardiovascular health. 

 


Though the benefits of bananas are many, you shouldn’t overfeed your dog bananas as they contain higher amounts of sugar than other fruits. Hence, when it comes to bananas, feed in moderation and cut them into small pieces to make them easier for your dog to chew. 

 

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5. Raspberries 

Raspberries are good for dogs in moderation. They are packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals which help prevent the abnormal growth of cells and have been proven beneficial in the fight against cancer. 

 


Raspberries contain a good amount of vitamin C and K and are packed with manganese. Manganese is a very important mineral for dogs. Dogs need manganese to produce energy. Manganese works to metabolise protein and carbohydrates to turn them into fatty acids that your dog can then use. It also plays a significant role in the maintenance of bone and cartilage of joints. Hence, raspberries are especially beneficial for ageing dogs who are in need of stronger bones and joints. 

 


The vitamin C in raspberries works to provide your dog with beautiful skin and coat and works to prevent various diseases and skin infections. 

 


Raspberries though low in calories should be enjoyed in moderation since they contain xylitol which is toxic in large quantities for dogs. 

 


6. Apples

Dogs can eat apples but not the seed and core. Hence, when feeding your dog apples, you want to ensure to remove the core and seeds first. 

 


Apples are a great source of vitamins A and C and fibre. The fibre in apples work to improve digestive health, while the vitamins help promote the functions of the immune system. Vitamin A plays a role in improving bone health, which is important for ageing dogs. 

 


Apples are low in protein and fats and can be a great treat for senior dogs. You can even feed them frozen pieces of apple as a great treat on a warm summer day. 

 

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7. Cantaloupe

Cantaloupe, though technically a vegetable, is eaten as a fruit. It is safe for dogs and is packed with nutrients. It has high water content and contains valuable fibre which helps promote digestive health. 

 


They contain some essential nutrients that are important for cardiovascular health such as zinc and iron. They also contain folic acid, calcium, copper and vitamin K. Folic acid helps make healthy red blood cells that carry oxygen in the body. A deficiency of folic acid could cause anaemia, signs of which include tiredness. 

 


Though low in calories, cantaloupes are high in sugar, hence moderation is very important. Though it works well as a training treat, you want to ensure to feed in moderation, especially if your dog is overweight or suffer from diabetes. 

 


8. Cranberries

Cranberries are safe for dogs in moderation. You can feed your dog cranberries in small quantities which is considered safe for your pup. 

 


Cranberries are rich in vitamins C, E and K1. Vitamin C and E are especially important for the skin and coat of your pup. These vitamins will work to keep skin infections at bay and will even work to resolve any skin conditions that your pup may have (If your pup has a skin condition, please consult a veterinarian).

 


Moderation is very important when feeding your dog cranberries as feeding your dog too many cranberries can lead to an upset stomach. 

 

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9. Mangoes

Mangoes are a sweet summer treat and are safe for your dog to eat. Just remember to peel the mango and do not feed your dog mangoes with the peel intact. 

 


Mangoes are loaded with vitamins A, B6, C and E. They contain potassium and both beta-carotene and alpha-carotene. The vitamins in mangoes help boost immune health, works to improve the health of bones and teeth and even works to improve the quality of skin and coat. 

 


Remember, the hard pit contains trace amounts of cyanide and should be removed before feeding your dog. 

 


Mangoes are high in sugar, hence it is best left as an occasional treat and should be fed in moderation. 

 


10. Oranges

Dogs can eat oranges, however, your dog may not be a fan of the strong-smelling citrus. If your dog does like oranges, it can be a valuable source of vitamin C which is great for skin and coat. 

 


Vitamin C also works to improve your dog’s immune system. Oranges also contain wholesome amounts of fibre and potassium. The potassium works to improve energy levels, while the fibre helps improve digestive health. 

 


Oranges should be eaten in small quantities. You should not feed your dog oranges with the peel and should ensure to remove the seeds too. Orange peels are difficult to digest, hence never feed your dog the peel. 

 

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11. Peaches

Peaches are safe for dogs and small amounts of cut-up peaches is a great source of fibre and vitamin A. 

 


The pit of peaches contains cyanide, hence be sure to remove the pit. So long as you make it a point to nicely cut around the pit, peaches work great as a summer treat. 

 


Vitamin A in peaches works to improve the health of bones and teeth. Vitamin A is also responsible for the proper function of muscles and nerves. 

 


When feeding your dog peaches, you want to refrain from feeding your dog canned peaches. Canned peaches contain a high amount of sugar which can be detrimental to the health of your pup. 

 


12. Pears

Dogs can eat pears and are considered safe for your pup. They work as a great snack and is high in fibre, copper and vitamins C and K. 

 


Feeding your dog pears could reduce the risk of stroke by 50%. It works to improve the health of the cardiovascular system. Copper plays a significant role in the formation of bones, connective tissue and collagen. Hence, pears are especially beneficial for growing pups. 

 


The pits of the fruit contain trace amounts of cyanide and should be removed. Make sure to remove the pit including seeds and skip out on canned pears since they too contain sugary syrups. 

 

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13. Pineapple

Pineapple is safe for dogs to eat, however, you have to ensure to feed in small pieces to prevent choking. It is a great sweet treat, however, you have to ensure to peel it properly and remove the crown.

 


Pineapples are loaded with vitamins and minerals. It is also a reliable source of fibre. What is really amazing about pineapples is the fact they contain bromelain which is an enzyme that facilitates the absorption of proteins in the dog’s gut. With the dog’s primary diet being protein-based, this enables effective nutrient absorption for optimum health. 

 


Frozen pieces of pineapple work great as a summer treat. So long as you process the pineapple properly and cut it into small bite-sized pieces, your dog will enjoy it. 

 


14. Blackberries

Blackberries are another type of berry that is safe for dogs in moderation. They contain good amounts of antioxidants and are low in sugar and calories. 

 


Blackberries contain small amounts of naturally occurring xylitol. This is a sweetener that is used in many low-sugar foods and is toxic for dogs in large quantities. Hence be sure to only feed your dog blackberries in moderation. 

 


Blackberries are loaded with vitamins C and K and manganese. They help boost brain health and promotes the function of the immune system. 

 

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Side Effects of Fruits for Dogs

You should not feed your dog large quantities of fruits, since this could cause an upset stomach. Lemons, limes and grapefruit all contain citrus and can lead to an upset stomach and nausea. Certain fruits are toxic for dogs.

 


Gas, vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea and bloating may also occur if your feed your dogs too much fruit. This is because the diet of dogs is primarily protein-based. Including fruits that are plant-based requires more effort for digestion. Thus, large quantities of fruit will not be digested well by your pooch and can lead to indigestion and an upset stomach. 

 


Always ensure to feed your dog fruits in moderation. Just so long as you steer clear of the toxic fruits and feed in moderation, fruits are considered safe for your pup. When feeding your dogs fruits for the first time, it is best to feed your dog small quantities at first and observe your dog for any signs of side effects.

 

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What Fruits Can Dogs Not Eat? (What Fruits are Toxic for Dogs)

Grapes, avocados and cherries are considered toxic for dogs. You should not feed your dogs these fruits under any condition. Citrus fruits such as lemons, limes and grapefruit can cause an upset stomach and should too be avoided. 

 


Avocado contains persin which is found in large quantities in the pit, skin and leaves of the fruit. Persin is a toxin that will cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. Though the fleshy inside contains less persin than the rest of the fruit, it is still too high for your dog to handle. 

 


Cherries contain cyanide which is toxic for dogs. Cyanide works to disrupt cellular oxygen transport which means your dog’s blood cells will not be able to get enough oxygen. If your dog eats cherries, you should be on the lookout for signs of difficulty with breathing, dilated pupils and red gums, which are all signs of cyanide poisoning. 

 


Grapes and raisins are toxic for dogs regardless of age, breed or sex. They are so toxic that it could lead to acute sudden kidney failure. This is a dangerous fruit that should not be fed to dogs and should be avoided at all costs. 

 


Though tomatoes are often thought to be a vegetable, they are a fruit that should also be avoided. The green parts of tomatoes contain a toxic substance called solanine. Though a dog would need to eat a large quantity of tomatoes to cause sickness, it is better to avoid it.

 


Though most berries are considered safe and are herewith listed in this article, wild berries are not good for your dog. They can cause many issues and should be avoided. 

 

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How Often Should You Feed Dogs Fruits?

Treats should not consist of more than 10% of your dog’s diet. Fruits are treats and should fall within this category. You do not have to include fruits in every meal, nor should you feed your dog fruits everyday. They work best as an occasional treat. 

 


Dogs do not need large quantities of fruit. Though humans do need a good portion of fruit in their diet, your dog does not require the same amount of fruit. Hence, when it comes to feeding your dog fruits, ensure not to overfeed them. 

 


Overfeeding your dog fruits could lead to various side effects such as vomiting, gas, bloating, diarrhoea and nausea. Hence, you should always feed your dog fruits in moderation. A few times a week should be sufficient. 

 


Fruits also work great as a treat during training and can be healthier than other treats available. 

 

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To Conclude

Fruits can have many benefits for the health of your pup. However, you shouldn’t be too enticed by these benefits and feed your dog fruits too often. Though the health benefits of fruits are many, you want to ensure moderation is maintained. 

 


You can try feeding your dog small quantities of fruit at first and observe for any signs and symptoms. If you notice any problem, you should immediately stop feeding them the fruit and should consult a veterinarian. 

 


Remember, when it comes to fruits, not all fruits are good for dogs. Some fruits are toxic and should not be fed. Avoid these fruits at all costs. 

 


We aimed to provide you with an informative article that would help you better understand which fruits are good for dogs. We hope after reading this word to word, you have a better idea of how to go about feeding your dog fruits and have an easier time treating your dog to this healthy snack.

 


Happy Feeding!

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