What Fruits can a dog eat?

Fruits are perfectly safe for dogs to eat, as long as they’re lower in sugar. Some of the healthiest choices include berries. because they’re also prebiotic. But not all fruits are good for dogs. Here are some of the healthiest fruits you can choose for you dog: Apples Apples are good for dogs. They contain vitamin A and C, are full of antioxidants like quercetin, which help relieve allergies and improve gut health. Apple skins are especially nutritious so be sure to keep it on. You can remove the apple core if you want, but this isn’t necessary. While apple seeds do contain cyanide, the amount is so minuscule it’s not really a cause for concern. Bananas Bananas are full of vitamins and minerals that can help strengthen your dog’s muscles, bones and immune system. They can also improve brain function and digestive health. But bananas are high in sugar and starch, which feed the bad bacteria and yeast in your dog’s gut … so don’t over do it. If you do feed your dog bananas, make sure you remove the peel or cut it up into small pieces. Banana peels aren’t toxic for dogs but they can cause bowel obstructions. Berries Most dogs love berries because they taste delicious. But these fruits are also packed full of antioxidants and vitamins that help keep your dog healthy. Let’s look at some of the most popular berries that dogs can eat … Blueberries Blueberries have a special nutrient that can cross the blood-brain barrier to help protect your dog’s brain function. They also pack more antioxidants than any other food. In fact, studies show that animals who eat blueberries are healthier, have less inflammation and they do better at memory and brain work. Cranberries Cranberries are safe for dogs and can be helpful for UTIs but … that isn’t all they’re good for. Cranberries also fight cancer, balance the gut and help manage inflammatory diseases. They can even protect your dog’s teeth. Raspberries Raspberries are full of nutrients like vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, C and E. So they aren’t only delicious, they’re nutritious. Raspberries are also full of antioxidants, which means they’re able to reduce inflammation and boost your dog’s immune system. Strawberries Strawberries contain lots of fiber and vitamin C, as well as enzymes that help keep your dog’s teeth clean. Cantaloupe Cantaloupes are a fruit your dog can eat and they’re a great way to keep your dog hydrated on a warm day. They have high water content and are a good source of fiber and vitamins your dog needs. If you decide to give your dog some cantaloupe, feed it without the rind. The rinds can be choking hazards or cause bowel obstructions. Cucumbers Cucumbers are a low-calorie snack that’s great for overweight dogs. They’re also full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory polyphenols that can prevent cancer. And they can help keep your dog hydrated on a warm day. If you give your dog cucumber, be sure to keep the peel on – it contains the most nutrients. Oranges And Other Citrus Fruit Dogs can eat citrus fruits like oranges, tangerines, mandarins and clementines. These fruits are high in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and helps with everyday functions. Most dogs produce their own vitamin C but as your dog ages, or if he’s stressed, a dietary boost may be necessary. Citrus fruit also contains anti-inflammatory flavanones that may help with weight management. Lemons, limes, and grapefruits have the same benefits and are safe for dogs. But don’t feel surprised if your dog won’t eat citrus fruit … most dogs find the flavor off-putting. You’ll also want to remove the peel to prevent obstructions. Pears Pears are a tasty treat for your dog and high in copper, fiber and antioxidants. This makes them a great choice to improve digestive health, fight cancer and reduce inflammation. Like apples, pear seeds contain cyanide, though the amount is very low. If you want, you can core the pear before you give it to your dog but it isn’t necessary. Pineapple Pineapple is full of vitamin C, B vitamins, and minerals that help with your dog’s health. You’ll want to remove the skin and crown before you feed your dog pineapple. You’ll also want to core the pineapple or cut it up into very small pieces to avoid an obstruction. Stone Fruits Stone fruits are fruits that have a single pit or seed in the center. This includes cherries, peaches, mangos, plums, nectarines and dates. While the flesh of fruits I’ve listed are safe for your dog to eat, you’ll want to remove the pits first. The pits contain cyanide that can stop your dog’s blood cells from getting enough oxygen. The pits can also cause bowel obstructions. If your dog accidentally eats a stone fruit whole, watch for signs of bowel obstruction or, if he ate a lot, cyanide poisoning. Tomatoes Like all nightshade vegetables, tomatoes contain solanine. Generally, ripe tomatoes are safe for your dog to eat because the solanine levels are low. And they’re full of healthy antioxidants and fiber. But you should feed them in moderation and shouldn’t give tomatoes to dogs with inflammatory diseases. That’s because solanine can aggravate inflammation. Green tomatoes, stems and leaves contain high levels of solanine and can be harmful to your dog. Be sure tomatoes are ripe and remove the stems and leaves before you feed them to your dog. You shouldn’t share tomato sauce and other tomato-based products. They might contain ingredients (like onions) that can be harmful to your dog. Watermelon Watermelons are a fruit your dog can eat. They contain vitamin A and C, plus they’re very refreshing. Watermelon also has an important antioxidant called lycopene. Watermelon is safe for dogs but … don’t give him the rind or seeds. They’re a choking hazard and can cause bowel obstructions.