Can Dogs Eat Fruit? They Can Eat These!

Travis Neighbor WardDog Food and Recipes2 Comments

Ever wondered: Can dogs eat fruit safely? And if so which ones? I bet you did when your baby was begging for a slice or orange or apple! Well, those two are just the start. Here’s a list of fruit that’s safe for dogs in general, according to the American Kennel Club and other sources. Remember, though, that every dog responds differently to foods and may have allergies. So introduce new foods slowly and consult your vet with any concerns. 

Can dogs eat fruit? Yes!

Photo by Andrew Smith/Flickr

But first, can dogs eat fruit that is canned?

When it comes to dogs eating fruit, the recommendation is for fresh fruit, not canned. The canned version contains lots of sugar, which isn’t good for them.

Can dogs eat fruit with a pit?

Dogs can eat fruit (some fruit!) that has a rind, pit and seeds AS LONG AS YOU DON'T LET THEM EAT THOSE PARTS. I get into detail for each fruit below.  

And now, here's my list of fruit that dogs can eat, from A to Z:

Apples

Apples are great for dogs because they have vitamins C and A, calcium, and phosphorous. They’re also low in fat and protein, and they contain fiber, which is great for dogs.

But beware: Dogs can choke on the apple core and apple seeds are toxic to dogs, so be sure to remove them first!! The best way to feed them to your dog is by slicing them into small pieces that are easy to chew.

Also, don’t go overboard when it comes to quantity; too much can lead to indigestion or diarrhea. 

Bananas

Dogs can eat bananas, but you have to limit the amounts because they’re high in sugar. Bananas are rich in fiber, magnesium, and potassium. One way dogs love eating bananas: smeared with peanut butter.

Blueberries

Yes, dogs can eat blueberries. They contain fiber, antioxidants (they can protect against cell damage in dogs, and boost the immune system, by fighting free radicals), and phytochemicals, which studies have shown can help fight cancer in humans. 

Cantaloupe

Didn’t think your dog could eat it? Think again! Canteloupe is fine for dogs and is a great low calorie food packed with fiber, water… and sugar. So you do need to feed it to your dog in moderation. 

Cranberries

You can feed your dog the fresh or dried version, though the tart taste may not appeal. But don’t overdo it with these berries; too many can lead to stomach upset. 

Mango

Dogs can eat mangoes but never let them have the pit, which contains toxic cyanide. Plus, it’s easy to choke on. Mangoes are a great source of vitamins B6, A, C, and E, as well as potassium, alpha-carotene, and beta-carotene. 

Oranges

Dogs can eat oranges. This fruit is a source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. But make sure to peel them and don’t let them chew on the peel or the seeds because they’re too hard to digest.

Peaches

It’s fine to give dogs small amounts of peaches, which include vitamin A and fiber. Like mangoes, the peach pit has cyanide which is poisonous so don’t ever let your dog chew on it. 

Pears

Yes, dogs can eat pears. They contain vitamins K and C, as well as copper. Plus studies have indicated that pears can help guard against strokes! But you have to carefully remove the pit and seeds, which have toxic cyanide. 

Pineapple

Sure, dogs can eat pineapple if you take off the outside skin. Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which helps dogs absorb protein. It also has fiber, minerals, and vitamins.

Raspberries

Dogs can eat raspberries. Like blueberries, they contain anxtioxidants and antiinflammatory properties. They also contain fiber, vitamin C, and manganese, an important mineral, plus they’re low in sugar.

But raspberries have a small quantity of Xylitol, which is toxic for dogs! The American Kennel Club advises that you limit the quantity. Still, I’d ask the vet first if you have miniature dogs. It may be better just to skip it and not take the risk.

Strawberries

Strawberries are fine for dogs, but they are high in sugar so you need to limit the amount you give. Strawberries have vitamin C and fiber, as well as an enzyme that will white your baby's teeth! A good way to serve it is in small chunks or mashed into a puree. 

Watermelon

Watermelon is fine for dogs, but you need to remove the seeds and don’t give them the rind to chew on. Watermelon is a low-calorie food rich in potassium, vitamins A, B6, and C. It’s also full of water, which makes it a great summertime treat. 

Share this!

2 Comments on “Can Dogs Eat Fruit? They Can Eat These!”

  1. I like your post. Now, I know about the fruit requirements of dogs. Apples include vitamins C and A and calcium and phosphorus, which are beneficial to dogs. They’re also low in fat and protein and high in fiber, which dogs love.

  2. Wow, great info! I appreciate the way you presented everything so concisely and matter-of-fact. My friend’s boyfriend told me his uncle had dachshunds all his life and was a big proponent of feeding them blueberries and other fruit. I had heard you could, but hadn’t found such comprehensive information about it. Thanks again!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *