For dog owners, choosing the right snack for their furry children has always been a challenge. As dogs’ families, we all want them to get nutritionally balanced, safe and beneficial foods. Not only does the fruit taste attractive, but it is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, making it an ideal choice for dog snacks. Through this article, you will learn about 10 fruits suitable for dogs and things to pay attention to when feeding, so as to provide your hairy children with healthy and delicious fruit snacks.
1. Apples
Apples are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and dietary fiber, which help dogs digestive health. They are also low-calorie, low-fat snack options. But remember to remove the apple core, as it contains small amounts of cyanide that is harmful to dogs.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed 1/4 medium-sized apples to medium-sized dogs every day.
2. Bananas
Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, magnesium and dietary fiber. They help maintain dogs’ heart health, muscle development, and energy levels. Bananas are also a low-calorie, high-fiber snack.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed medium-sized dogs 1/2 medium-sized bananas every day.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries are considered to be a "a "super food" and are rich in antioxidants. They help strengthen the dog's immune system and are beneficial to cardiovascular health. Blueberries are also rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed medium-sized dogs 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries every day.
4. Strawberry
Strawberry is rich in vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants. They help keep dogs’ teeth and gums healthy and are also a low-calorie, low-fat snack option.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed medium-sized dogs 3-4 medium-sized strawberries every day.
5. Watermelon
Watermelon is rich in water and vitamins, making it an ideal snack for dogs in hot weather. It is also rich in antioxidants, helping to keep your dog's immune system healthy.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed medium-sized dogs 1 cup of cut watermelon meat every day.
6. Kiwi
Kiwi is rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium and dietary fiber. It helps maintain a healthy luster of the dog's fur, and also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed medium-sized dogs 1/2 medium-sized kiwi fruit every day.
7. Mango
Mango is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C and antioxidants. They help to enhance your dog’s vision and immunity and are also a delicious fruit snack.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed medium-sized dogs 1/4 cup of cut mangoes every week.
8. Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits and grapefruit are rich in vitamin C, which helps to strengthen the dog's immune system. But be careful to remove the peel and seeds, as they may irritate the dog's stomach.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed medium-sized dogs 1/4 cup of citrus fruit cut every day.
9. Cherries
Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which helps keep dogs healthy joints. But be sure to remove the cherry pits, as they contain substances that are toxic to dogs.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed medium-sized dogs 5-6 pitted cherries every day.
10. Pear
Pears are rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, which helps promote digestive health in dogs. They are also low-calorie, low-fat snack options.
Adjust feeding tips: Feed medium-sized dogs 1/2 medium-sized pears every day.
Benefits of eating fruits for dogs
Appropriate feeding of fruits to dogs has the following benefits:
1. Provide nutrition: Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and dietary fiber, which helps maintain overall health of dogs.
2. Boost immunity: Many fruits contain antioxidants that help strengthen the dog's immune system and fight against disease.
3. Maintain digestive health: The dietary fiber in fruits helps promote the operation of the dog's digestive system and prevent constipation.
4. Replenishing moisture: Some fruits (such as watermelon) are rich in moisture and can help dogs replenish moisture in hot weather.
5. Delicious snacks: Fruits are healthy, low-calorie snack options that can be used as food bait for rewards or training.
6. Improve fur quality: Some fruits (such as kiwi fruit) contain nutrients that are beneficial to the health of the fur.
7. Promote joint health: Antioxidant-rich fruits (such as cherries) help relieve symptoms of arthritis.
Fruits that dogs cannot eat
Although most fresh fruits are safe for dogs, there are some exceptions to note:
1. Grapes and raisins: They may cause kidney failure in the dog and should be avoided completely.
2. Plum: Plum seeds and bark contain substances that are toxic to dogs and should be avoided.
3. Guava: Its seeds and bark also contain substances that are toxic to dogs.
4. Nectarines and Apricots: Their cores and bark contain compounds that are toxic to dogs.
5. Fig: Although the fruit itself is safe, fig milk may irritate the dog's stomach.
6. Citrus fruit peel: The essential oils in citrus peels may irritate the dog's stomach and should be removed.
7. Rotten or moldy fruits: They may contain toxic mold and should be avoided.
If you are not sure if a fruit is safe, it is best to consult a pet hospital first.
Precautions for feeding fruit to dogs
To ensure that dogs eat fruit safely, please follow the following precautions:
1. Feed appropriately: Fruits should be used as a supplement to the dog's daily diet, not a staple food. Overfeeding may cause diarrhea or other digestive problems.
2. Cut into small pieces: Cut the fruit into small, palatable pieces to prevent the dog from choking or difficulty swallowing.
3. Remove harmful parts: If the fruit contains seeds, cores or skins, be sure to remove these harmful parts to the dog.
4. Gradually introduce new food: If it is the first time that the dog is fed a new fruit, please start with a small amount and observe whether there are any adverse reactions.
5. Avoid adding condiments: Do not sprinkle salt, sugar or other condiments on fruits, as these may adversely affect the health of your dog.
6. Note the potential allergic reactions: Although rare, some dogs may be allergic to specific fruits. If any discomfort occurs, stop feeding immediately and consult a veterinarian.
7. Keep the fruit fresh: Rotten or moldy fruits may contain toxic substances and should be avoided.
8. Consult professional advice: If you have any questions about the safety or proper feeding of a fruit, please consult a professional veterinarian or pet nutritionist.
By following these precautions, you can safely use fruit as a healthy snack to supplement your dog's daily diet. Remember that the nutritional needs of each dog vary, and feeding in moderation is crucial.