If you're anything like us, you love to do everything with your dog! Walking, sleeping, watching movies, going for a drive… Doggos make for the perfect sidekick to make any activity more enjoyable. But when it comes to eating, not everything can be shared. Let's take a look at the top 10 fruits safe for dogs. Is pineapple good for dogs?
What Fruits are Safe for Dogs?
Many dog owners make the mistake of assuming that if a fruit is safe for humans, it must be safe for their pooch too. Right?
Wrong. He might make it difficult to say no, especially when he looks up at you with those big puppy dog eyes, but certain foods are dangerous for him to consume. Some fruits can even be toxic! Luckily, however, there are plenty of fruits safe for dogs. What fruits can dogs not eat?
A dog has an entirely different digestive system and requires a specific type of diet to stay healthy and fit. And as animal parents, we want to keep our dogs safe at all costs. That's why it's super important to know what you can and cannot share with your dog. Fruits like grapes (or raisins), avocados, cherries, and grapefruit can be big no-nos for dogs!
The good news is there are a number of fruits safe for dogs to enjoy with you and they have great health benefits as well! In this article, we'll discuss the top 10 fruits safe for dogs along high in fiber with and vitamin content.
1. Apples
Can dogs eat apples? Absolutely!
If an "apple a day keeps the doctor away" for humans, what does it do for dogs? In moderation, apples are a delicious and nutritious snack for dogs to enjoy for several reasons. As you can likely see already, there are plenty of fruits safe for dogs that are high in fibre and vitamin content.
Benefits of Apples
Many dogs really enjoy the crunchy texture of apples. Biting into a piece of apple helps clean residue off their teeth and gums, while also improving their breath. Plus, they're rich in vitamin A and vitamin C to promote a strong immune system, shiny coat, and healthy heart.
Apples are also very fibrous and contain pectin, which is a naturally produced sugar acid in certain fruits and vegetables. Fibre and pectin both aid in healthy digestion and gut health.
Because of their high sugar content, apples should always be given to your dog occasionally. It's also key to note that dogs should never consume seeds or cores. They can contain cyanide, which is hazardous to dogs.
How to Feed Your Dog Apples
When you want to feed your pup a juicy apple slice, be sure to know the correct portion size for her!
| Feeding Frequency: | - Occasionally (1 time per week)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10 lbs dog - 1 small slice cut into bite-sized pieces, 1-2 tablespoons natural, unsweetened applesauce
- 30 lbs dog - 1/2 of an average-size apple cut into bite-sized pieces, up to 1/4 cup natural, unsweetened applesauce
- 70 lbs dog - 1 average-size apple cut into bite-sized pieces, up to 3/4 cup natural, unsweetened applesauce
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| Feeding Tips: | - Slice the apple into bite-sized pieces before feeding to your dog
- Add a small amount of peanut butter to apple slices to make them even more appetizing
- Remove core and all seeds
- The peel may be left on or removed for easier digestion
- Add a small amount of natural, unsweetened applesauce to your dog's dish
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Apple Recipe for Dogs
Apples go great with many other best fruits for dogs and human foods, but we especially love this dog treat recipe! Apple pumpkin bars make for a yummy treat your best bud will love.
As we explained, apples are loaded with essential nutrients and vitamins for your dog. Pumpkins are too! Check out our other blog to learn more about the health benefits of pumpkins for dogs.
What You Need
- 1 medium-sized apple (diced)
- ¾ cups pumpkin puree
- 2 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
This special treat is quick and easy to make! First, preheat your oven to 375℉ and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients starting with the flour and then moving on to the apples and wet ingredients. Mix it all together until you have a firm dough.
Roll the dough out onto a sheet of wax or parchment paper. Use a cookie cutter or knife to make fun shapes. We love using a bone-shaped cookie cutter.
Carefully transfer to your prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until your apple pumpkin cookies are nice and crisp! Be sure to allow time for the cookies to cool off before feeding them to your pet.
Store your cookies for up to one week in an airtight container (more if you store them in the fridge).
2. Bananas
Can dogs eat bananas? Yes!
Just as they are for us humans, bananas are a nutritious treat for our dogs!
Benefits of Bananas
If you have an active or working dog, bananas are an excellent source of electrolytes, natural sugars, and carbohydrates that aid sore muscles and work as a natural energy booster after exercising. Fruits good for dogs combined with the high potassium content, the rich nutrients and amino acids in bananas work to balance internal fluids and help keep your pooch's muscles strong and lean.
Bananas are also a great source of fibre, which offers all kinds of health benefits for doggies. Fibre can help manage your dog's weight and promote healthy digestion.
Just half a banana can work as a natural remedy if your dog is struggling with diarrhea to firm up loose stools. Because bananas are high in soluble fibre, it's best to stick to just the recommended half dosage and see how your dog feels after. For some, too much banana can cause a doggo to become constipated.
How to Feed Your Dog Bananas
It's important to know the right portion size and how often your dog can enjoy bananas based on their size!
Feeding Guidelines
| Feeding Frequency: | - Fairly often (2 to 3 times per week)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10 lbs dog - 1 small slice (1" total) of a banana
- 30 lbs dog - up to 1/4 banana (2-3")
- 70 lbs dog - up to 1/2 banana (4-5")
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| Feeding Tips: | - Cut or break into bite-sized pieces
- Mash/puree and mix small quantities into your dog's regular food
- Bring a banana to share with your dog on a long hike or during a high agility training class.
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Banana Recipe for Dogs
If you want to treat your doggo to fruits safe for dogs, bananas are an awesome ingredient to combine with other dog-friendly human foods. Here is a super simple recipe for a dog treat that he'll really enjoy with just three ingredients! These banana, peanut butter, and oat treats are a total hit!
What You Need:
- 1 ripe banana
- ½ cup natural peanut butter with no added preservatives, sugar or oils
- 1 and ½ cups gluten-free rolled oats
Instructions:
First, you're going to want to get started by preheating your oven to 350℉. Prepare a baking sheet with some parchment paper.
This recipe works best if you blend your rolled oats in a food processor or blender so that it turns into fine flour. Or you can always use oat flour as an alternative. Blend it up and set it aside for later!
Next, smash together the peanut butter and banana in a medium/large mixing bowl. Add in your oat flour and mix it all up until you have a thick dough. If it has any lumps or looks crumbly, add a little more peanut butter and mix again.
Roll out your dough and make a thin ¼ inch slab! Cut it into shapes using a cookie cutter (we use ones shaped like a bone!) If you don't have a cookie-cutter, you can always roll the dough into balls that are about 1 tablespoon each in size and flatten them into circular cookies.
Bake them for 15 minutes until they're lightly brown. Be sure to let them cool off for 10 to 15 minutes before feeding them to your pup. These yummy treats will keep for up to 2 weeks if you store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator!
Looking for pet-safe peanut butter? Check out Hero Dog Treats Peanut Buddy line for some convenient and delicious peanut butter options.
3. Blueberries
Can dogs eat blueberries? You bet!
Blueberries are a perfect bitesize snack for your dog to enjoy that are as refreshing as they are delicious!
Benefits of Blueberries
Blueberries are loaded with essential nutrients and vitamins, which make them a superfood for dogs (and humans too!). Although they don't contain nearly as much as bananas, blueberries offer a little fibre to aid in digestion. But what makes blueberries so great for our furry friends is the fact that they're rich in antioxidants and other immune-boosting nutrients.
Antioxidants fight against free radicals that can be found in many dog foods and can cause damage to our dog's body. The antioxidants in blueberries paired with selenium, zinc, vitamins C, E, and K work to strengthen your dog's natural defense system and prevent future health issues.
It is important to keep in mind that blueberries are high in natural sugars, so you should feed them in moderation to your dog based on their size. Too much sugar can upset your dog's stomach, and cause an imbalance in the healthy bacteria in his stomach. This can lead to vomiting and diarrhea, and in worse cases inflammation in parts of the body. Be sure to follow the right guidelines when feeding your doggo blueberries!
Blueberries are often used in dog food and treats for their antioxidants and flavour. One of our favourites is Grandma Lucy's Organic Blueberry Oven-Baked Treats.
How to Feed Your Dog Blueberries
Your dog can enjoy blueberries in moderation based on their size!
| Feeding Frequency: | - Occasionally (1 time per week)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10 lbs dog - up to 1 Tbsp. blueberries (5 berries)
- 30 lbs dog - 2-3 Tbsp. blueberries (10-15 berries)
- 70 lbs dog - up to 1/2 cup blueberries (20-30 berries)
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| Feeding Tips: | - Feed to your dog fresh or frozen
- Lightly mash and mix into your dog's regular food
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Blueberry Recipe for Dogs
When it comes to feeding your dog blueberries, they're great fresh or frozen. But if you want to go above and beyond for your pooch (which we all love to do), this blueberry muffin recipe is a fun and easy way to do so!
While regular blueberry muffins are made with baking soda and/or baking powder to help them get nice and fluffy, these ingredients can be toxic to dogs. Blueberry muffins for doggos are made with the following safe ingredients.
What You Need:
- 1 cup of fresh blueberries
- 1 cup of rolled oats
- 1 cup of whole wheat flour
- ½ cup of applesauce (unsweetened and no sugar added)
- 2 eggs (yolk and whites separated)
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions:
To make these dog-friendly blueberry muffins, you'll want to first preheat your oven to 350℉ and lightly grease your muffin pan (the smaller the better) with a little bit of olive oil – which is okay for dogs to consume.
Mix together the rolled oats and flour into a large bowl. Stir in the wet ingredients (applesauce, egg yolks, and water) and mix until thick.
Carefully add the blueberries into the mixture. Try not to turn them into mush when mixing them in!
Next, beat the egg whites until they're stiff. It's best to use an electric mixer for this step. Then fold the egg whites into the mixture.
Using a spoon, scoop the batter into your mini muffin pan and bake for 25 minutes or until your batter is lightly browned. Let them cool off before serving to your pet.
These can be stored in your refrigerator for up to 3 weeks in an airtight container! They can also be frozen.
4. Mango
Can dogs eat mango? Yessiree!
Mangoes are such a yummy treat during summertime. Your dog might think so too! These vibrant and delicious fruits are safe for your pup to enjoy in moderation.
Benefits of Mango
Mangoes are tasty just as they are or in a smoothie… but they also make for a sweet and tangy treat for your pups! Plus, mangoes have great nutritional value including vitamins A, B6, C, and E.
Your pet will also benefit from the potassium, beta-carotene, and flavonoids that mangoes offer. Beta-carotene and flavonoids have an antioxidant effect and are helpful for your dog's eye health and skin.
Similar to the other fruits we've already discussed, mangoes should be given to your dog in moderation due to their high sugar content. It is also important to make sure your dog doesn't eat the skin or pit of the mango. In fact, it's wise to feed your dog slices that are closer to the skin to avoid any possible traces of cyanide from the pit.
How to Feed Your Dog Mango
As always, be sure to check the feeding guidelines for your dog's size before giving your dog mango.
| Feeding Frequency: | - Occasionally (1 time per week)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10 lbs dog - Up to 2 small bite-sized pieces (up to 2 Tbsp)
- 30 lbs dog - Up to four 1" square pieces (1/8 cup)
- 70 lbs dog - Up to 1/4 cup, cut into bite-sized pieces
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| Feeding Tips: | - Great to feed fresh or frozen
- Remove pit before feeding to your dog
- Peel the mango and take slices closer to the outside, further from the pit
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Mango Recipes for Dogs
Mangoes are best served fresh or frozen, but if you're looking for an easy way to treat your dog to something extra special, we found this safe and appetizing recipe! Cook this mango chicken dinner for your furry friend for their birthday or other special occasions.
What You Need:
- 1 cup fresh mango (chopped)
- 4 oz boneless chicken breast (shredded)
- ¾ cup of oat or wheat flour
- 1 egg (optional)
Instructions:
Your dog is going to be salivating over this mango chicken dish. To get started, first preheat your oven to 350℉ and prep your baking sheet with parchment paper. Next, combine all of your ingredients with the exception of the egg into a large bowl and mix it together. Add the egg if the mixture is too dry.
The next step is to knead the mixture gently into a ball. Roll the dough out onto wax or parchment paper until you have a slab that is ¼ inch thick. Using a cookie cutter (again, we love using our bone-shaped cutter), cut your dough into shapes.
Transfer your chicken bites onto your prepared baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool off before serving to your pet! Bone-Appetit, mango chicken patties for your well-deserving doggo.
If needed, you can store the remaining pieces in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 to 3 days.
5. Oranges
Can dogs eat oranges? Yes!
While many dogs do not like the sour taste of citrus fruits, oranges are okay in small amounts for those that do!
Benefits of Oranges
In limited amounts, oranges can provide your dog with vitamin C, A, B6, potassium and other beneficial nutrients. Too much citrus, however, can throw off the pH balance in your dog's stomach.
Although dogs can get these things from other ingredients in their diet, the flavonoids and phytonutrients, as well as the folic acid in oranges are essential to a dog's health. Flavonoids and phytonutrients are antioxidants that can strengthen your dog's immune system and fight illness. Folic acid is necessary for the breakdown of amino acids in your dog's body and helps with digestion.
Keep in mind, oranges and other citrus fruits should be fed in small amounts to your pet. If you overdo it, the high sugar content in citrus fruits can cause your dog to have an upset stomach. If you have a pooch that'll eat anything you put in front of him, be careful! Avoid feeding your dog the peel, seeds, or leaves. These can be very harmful!
Oranges aren't the most common fruit to find in commercial dog foods, but there are a few brands that have embraced the citrus, like Farmina Dog Food!
How to Feed Your Dog Oranges
As we already mentioned, it's important to feed your dog limited amounts of oranges in moderation. And as you would with any human food, be sure to know the safety guidelines for feeding your dog any type of citrus fruit.
| Feeding Frequency: | - Rarely to Never (Once every couple months)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10 lbs dog - 1/2 section or segment on a minimal, infrequent basis
- 30 lbs dog - One section or segment on a minimal, infrequent basis
- 70 lbs dog - 1 - 2 segments on a minimal, infrequent basis
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| Feeding Tips: | - Make sure to remove all rind, seeds, and leaves
- Cut flesh of fruit into bite-sized pieces before feeding
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Oranges Recipe for Dogs
Because oranges are a fruit your dog should eat pretty sparingly, we suggest making orange pupsicles that can be easily stored in your freezer for long periods of time to share with your pup every now and then. While other fruit pupsicles are made with plain yogurt, we like to keep our frozen orange treats a little more simple to keep the sugar content to a minimum and make sure they last for much longer!
What You Need:
- 1 large orange
- ½ cup of water
Instructions:
This frozen dog treat recipe is so easy! Just cut the orange into slices, remove the seeds and peels, and combine with water in your blender or food processor. Blend it until you have a smooth liquid. Pour the liquid into your ice tray or mould and freeze! Share with your dog every couple of months… if you don't eat them all yourself first!
Like a popsicle, you need a stick, right! Grab a few of your dog's favourite natural chew or cookies to freeze into the treats. These will make it easy to remove from the tray and will give you something to hold onto while your dog enjoys his icy snack.
6. Peaches
Can dogs eat peaches? Yes, they can!
Fresh slices of peach are A-okay for your dog to eat! She might really enjoy them too.
Benefits of Peaches
Another great pleasure of summer, peaches are delicious and nutritious for your dog to enjoy. They're full of antioxidants to fight against inflammation and other ailments. Plus, they're an excellent source of vitamins A, E and B-complex.
Peaches are also high in fibre, zinc, copper, phosphorus, potassium and iron! Iron helps with blood flow to deliver essential nutrients to parts of the body. Puppies need lots of iron to help them grow, but all dogs need iron in their diet. While they mostly absorb iron from meat or hardy vegetables in their diet, peaches can provide another source of this important mineral if needed.
Be sure to remove the pit, or stone as some call it, before feeding to your dog as this can be a choking hazard or dangerous to their digestive tract. It's best to cut it up into small pieces for your dog to easily swallow.
How to Feed Your Dog Peaches
Like the other fruits listed above, peaches can be very high in sugar. For this reason, it's important to be mindful of your dog's size when measuring how much to give him. Be sure to feed peaches in moderation.
| Feeding Frequency: | - Occasionally (1 time per week)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10 lbs dog - up to 1/4 peach or nectarine, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 30 lbs dog - up to 1/2 small peach or nectarine, cleaned well, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 70 lbs dog - up to 1 small peach or nectarine, cleaned well, cut into bite-sized pieces
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| Feeding Tips: | - Remove pit before feeding to your dog
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Peaches Recipe for Dogs
If your dog loves to eat peaches, she'll love this yummy, dog-friendly peach recipe! These biscuits are easy to make and great for peach-lovin' pups!
What You Need:
- ¼ cup of peaches (diced, DO NOT use canned peaches!)
- 2 cups of rolled oats
- ¾ cups of water (divided in half)
- 1 cup of whole wheat flour
- 1 tbsp of honey (optional)
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
To get started making these special oatmeal peach biscuits, preheat your oven to 350℉ and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. Combine your oats and ½ cup of water in a large bowl and set aside.
Next, combine peaches, ⅛ cup of water, and honey into your food processor or blender, and pulse until you have a smooth mixture. Pour the mixture into your bowl of oats and mix together. Add the cinnamon, flour and the rest of the water (⅛ cup). Mix, mix, mix until all of the flavours seem evenly distributed. If you find that it is difficult to mix the dough, you can use a surface like your kitchen counter to knead it!
Once your biscuit dough is combined, cut off little pieces and form 1 inch balls. Transfer these dough balls onto your prepped baking sheet and flatten with a spoon or your fingers. You can also cut shapes like bones or doggie paws for extra cuteness!
Bake the biscuits for 15 minutes. Let them cool before feeding your dog.
This makes about 24 dog biscuits, so you'll definitely have extra to store for later! Keep them in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer to keep them fresh.
7. Pears
Can dogs eat pears? Yes!
Pears are another healthy fruit that your dog can enjoy with you. They're crunchy, sweet and beneficial to your dog's health!
Benefits of Pears
There are a number of reasons why pears are excellent snacks for your dog to eat! Pears are chock full of vitamins including vitamin B6, C, and K and other essential nutrients such as copper, magnesium, and potassium. Finally, pears are high in fibre!
Vitamin C keeps your dog's immune system strong and can be a preventative of infection, certain diseases, and cancers, while vitamin K is excellent for healthy bones, especially for active or ageing doggos. Vitamin B6 is needed for proper brain function and balancing hormones, which affects your dog's mood. In other words, pears can keep your dog feeling happy!
A few slices of pears provide your dog with lots of potassium! This mineral is an electrolyte that keeps your dog's heart function healthy. That's why we are starting to see pears more prominently featured in high-quality dog diets, like Nulo Freeze-Dried Duck and Pear formula.
Magnesium is another super useful nutrient that can be found in pears. It helps your dog absorb other vitamins and nutrients, while also boosting his immune system health!
Because of their high sugar and fibre content, eating too many pears can cause a dog to have an upset stomach, diarrhea, or other issues. For this reason, it's best to feed your dog pears in moderation! Also, don't feed your dog any pears with the seeds or core. Similar to apples, pear seeds and pits have cyanide, which can be dangerous for your dog to consume in large amounts.
How to Feed Your Dog Pears
Many dogs really enjoy pears! Their crunchy texture, subtly sweet taste, and nutrient-dense content make them great treats. Be sure to follow the right feeding guidelines for your dog's size and needs!
| Feeding Frequency: | - Fairly often (2 to 3 times per week)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10lbs dog - 1 - 2 slices, cut into bite-sized pieces (1/4 cup)
- 30lbs dog - up to 1/2 cup, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 70lbs dog - up to 1 small pear, cut into bite-sized pieces (up to 3/4 cup)
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| Feeding Tips: | - Remove core and seeds before feeding
- Top with a dollop of plain, natural yogurt
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Pear Recipe for Dogs
Pears certainly pair well with other nutritious foods to make for an excellent dog treat. This next frozen snack you can make at home and keep on hand for when your furry pal has been extra well-behaved! The other ingredients in this treat are all safe for your dog to enjoy and loaded with vitamins and minerals that are essential to her health!
What You Need:
- 1 pear (chopped into small pieces)
- 1 apple (chopped into small pieces)
- 2 cups of spinach
- 1 cup of celery (chopped into small pieces)
- 1 cup of water
In structions:
Much like the watermelon and fresh pineapple pupsicles, this recipe is easy as pie and takes barely any time at all! First, combine your ingredients into a large food processor or blender and pulse until you have a smooth mixture.
Transfer the mixture into your ice tray and freeze for 4 to 5 hours (or until frozen). Keep these yummy popsicles in an airtight container and allow your pup one or two occasionally.
8. Pineapple
Can dogs eat pineapple? Without a doubt!
Many dog owners might not think to feed their dogs pineapple. Little do they know, Can dogs eat pineapple? Yes, they can and it is an excellent treat for them to enjoy! It is not only sweet and juicy, but it can really boost your dog's health.
Benefits of Pineapple
Pineapples consist of several vitamins, including vitamin C, B1, B2, B3, B6, and B9! While vitamin C is an excellent immunity booster and antioxidant, it can also assist your dog in regulating the vitamin C that they make on their own. B vitamins have various health benefits for doggos, including maintaining energy levels and aiding metabolism. Instead of wondering can dogs eat raw pineapple, feel free to let them indulge!
Another essential nutrient to all animals that can be found in raw pineapple chunks is manganese. This healthy element is beneficial for a number of reasons. It boosts digestion and it's chock full of antioxidants. It works to absorb proteins and carbohydrates, while also activating the enzymes that help your pet's body make use of the fatty acids in their daily diet. Manganese also promotes bone health and normal hormone production.
Additionally, pineapple chunks contain something called bromelain, which is a digestive enzyme that makes it easier for your dog to metabolize proteins. For this reason, a small amount of pineapple balances well with a meat-rich or high protein diet, like Smack Pet Food.
A few things to note when feeding your dog pineapple! Don't let your dog eat the rind, core, or crown of the pineapple! They can be a choking hazard or just really harsh on her tummy. Stick to the flesh of the pineapple. Also, dogs should only have pineapple chunks in moderation because of their high sugar content. Too much of this sweet treat can cause certain health issues for your furry best friend.
How to Feed Your Dog Pineapple
Your dog will be thanking you for treating them to some pineapple. However, please do not make a common mistake by giving Hawaiian pizza to your dog even though it contains pineapple. As pizza contains a lot of other ingredients that can be harmful to your dog.
Also, keep in mind the following guidelines to feed your dog the right amount and at the right frequency.
| Feeding Frequency: | - Occasionally (1 time per week)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10 lbs dog - up to 2 Tbsp, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1 tsp natural, unsweetened pineapple juice
- 30 lbs dog - up to Four 1" square pieces with rind removed (1/4 cup) 1 - 2 tsp. natural, unsweetened pineapple juice
- 70 lbs dog - up to 1/2 cup, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1-1.5 Tbsp natural, unsweetened pineapple juice
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| Feeding Tips: | - Feed to your dog fresh or frozen
- Remove core and all rind before serving to your dog
- Cut into bite-sized pieces
|
Pineapple Recipe for Dogs
Can dogs eat pineapple? One of the most popular ways that dog owners choose to serve their dog pineapple is by making popsicles! Similar to the orange recipe above – pineapple pupsicles are a great way for your dog to cool down and enjoy this nutrient-dense fruit.
What You Need
- 2 cups of pineapple (sliced into small chunks)
- ¼ cup of plain natural yogurt
If you choose to feed pineapple for its digestive benefits, then consider using raw goat's milk instead of plain natural yogurt. The healthy bacteria in goat's milk will provide an added boost to your dog's digestive system.
Learn more about goat's milk in The Amazing Benefits of Goat's Milk
Instructions
Blend together your pineapple and yogurt and transfer them into your moulds! Stick the ice tray in the freezer and after 4 to 5 hours, you'll have a tasty and refreshing treat you and your doggo can enjoy together!
Be sure to store in an airtight container in the freezer so that they keep their flavor!
9. Strawberry
Can dogs eat strawberries? Certainly!
Delicious and fresh strawberries are another fruit that you and your dog can both enjoy. Best in the summer, a juicy strawberry is a great and refreshing snack when the sun is out.
Benefits of Strawberries
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, but low in calories, which makes them a tasty treat for your doggo to indulge in! They also contain fibre, which helps your pup feel fuller and maintain a healthy digestive system as we mentioned before.
As a superfood for both humans and pets, strawberries help slow ageing, boost immune health, and keep your dog at a healthy weight. They are a good source of vitamin K, which aids your dog's body with functions like blood clotting, and vitamin C, which fights free radicals and prevents illness. Iodine, potassium, magnesium, and folic acid are some of the other beneficial contents of strawberries.
Be sure to feed your dog fresh strawberries and avoid canned strawberries or strawberry syrups. Or look for nutritious dog treats that offer nutrition from strawberries, like The Honest Kitchen Cod and Strawberry Crisps.
How to Feed Your Dog Strawberries
Whether you're wanting to try out a new treat for your doggo or you're just curious to see if she'd like it, strawberries are a safe, nutritious, and pooch-approved option to feed her. Remember – always check the feeding guidelines for your dog's size so that you know the proper amount to give.
| Feeding Frequency: | - Fairly often (2 to 3 times per week)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10 lbs dog - 1 medium berry or 1/2 of a large berry
- 30 lbs dog - 2-3 medium berries
- 70 lbs dog - up to 1/2 cup berries
|
| Feeding Tips: | - Serve to your dog fresh or frozen
- Mix with a small portion of cottage cheese or freeze with plain, natural yogurt for a special treat
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Strawberry Recipe for Dogs
Who doesn't love a yummy strawberry banana combo? These two fruits together make for a delicious and super nutritious dog treat as well! This no-bake recipe is quick, easy and something your dog will drool over!
What You Need
- 4 large strawberries (sliced)
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup plain natural yogurt
- 1 ½ cup of oat or wheat flour
Instructions
Using a blender or food processor, combine all of your ingredients and pulse until you have a smooth mixture. Form the mixture into balls with your hands in whatever size you think is best for your pup. Place the dough balls on a plate or baking sheet. Just be sure whatever you use can fit in your refrigerator!
Allow your strawberry dough balls to chill and harden in the fridge for the best consistency before feeding them to your pet. Store in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer.
10. Watermelon
Can dogs eat watermelon? They sure can!
Watermelon is the ultimate summer treat, and it's one that you can certainly share with your pet!
Benefits of Watermelon
After running around under the summer sun, your dog might really enjoy a nice juicy slice of watermelon! Along with other types of melons, watermelon is a great way to keep your dog hydrated. Watermelon is over 90% moisture, so this is a great snack for preventing dehydration.
They are also rich in nutrients like vitamin B6, and B1, which are beneficial to eye health, as well as calcium, potassium, lycopene, and fibre.
Watermelon is also loaded with vitamin A. Dogs need vitamin A to support retinol and heart function. It is an essential vitamin to keep their skin, coat, nerves, and muscles in tip-top shape! Plus, it is especially important for pregnant females and newborn pups to promote healthy growth and development.
However, too much of a good thing can be bad! Vitamin A is fat-soluble, which means that the excess vitamin A is stored in your dog's body. This can eventually result in Vitamin A toxicity. Because vitamin A toxicity accumulates over time, your dog may not show symptoms of it until it's too late.
For this reason, it's important to not only measure the amount of watermelon you're giving to your dog but also consider the amount of vitamin A they get from the rest of their regular diet. If they're already getting a healthy dose, it's recommended to keep the watermelon slices to a minimum and feed only occasionally!
Be sure not to feed your dog seeds or the rind of a watermelon. It is dangerous for a dog to swallow these parts as they can cause issues in the digestive system and potential intestinal blockages.
How to Feed Your Dog Watermelon
If you haven't tried feeding your dog watermelon, you definitely should! He might really enjoy it. Just be sure to know the proper feeding guidelines for the size of your dog.
| Feeding Frequency: | - Occasionally (1 time per week)
|
| Adequate Portion Size: | - 10 lbs dog - up to 2 Tbsp, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 30 lbs dog - up to Four 1" square pieces with rind removed (1/4 cup)
- 70 lbs dog - up to 3/4 cup, cut into bite-sized pieces
|
| Feeding Tips: | - Remove rind and seeds before feeding to your dog
- Mix with a small portion of cottage cheese or plain, natural yogurt
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Watermelon Recipe for Dogs
If your dog loves a nice, cold treat after a long hot walk, try making frozen watermelon dog treats! Made with two simple ingredients, you might even enjoy them too!
Watermelon dog treats are super easy and quick to make. Keep them in your freezer as an extra special surprise for your pooch. This recipe can be made with any of the fruits safe for dogs in this blog.
What You Need:
- 2 cups of watermelon
- ¼ cup natural plain yogurt
- Ice cube trays!
Instructions
We love this recipe because it is so simple and fast! Slice your watermelon into small pieces and combine in a blender with the yogurt until it's nice and smooth. Pour the mixture into your ice cube tray and freeze!
Once they're frozen, which typically takes just a few hours, transfer your mini watermelon popsicles into an airtight container and store them in your freezer.
For some real Instagram-ready frozen goodies, check out Big Country Raw's adorable frozen treat moulds. These food-grade silicone trays are easy to clean and BPA-free!
In Conclusion
Though not all fruits are safe to share, look for the ones that are both tasty and nutritious. Adding fresh produce is an excellent way to bolster your pet's bowl, and provide variety in his diet. You may even find many of these tasty and healthy fruits included in your dog's food and treats.
Sharing your favourite fruits with your dog can be fun and safe to do! Just be sure to always double-check the feeding guidelines for the type of fruit and your dog's requirements before you cut them a slice! We hope you find this guide to the top 10 fruits your dog can eat safely.
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