One way to ensure our furry friends stay healthy and happy is by incorporating dog-friendly fruits into their diet. Fruits are not only a delicious treat but also offer a range of health benefits for dogs, including improved digestion, a boosted immune system, and healthy skin and coat. However, not all fruits are safe for dogs, and it is important to know which fruits to avoid to prevent any potential harm.

Not all fruits are safe for dogs to consume, but many are a healthy and tasty treat for them. Fruits that are safe include apples, bananas, blueberries, cantaloupe, strawberries and more. 

Dog-Friendly Fruits

You already know that fruit is important for maintaining your health, but did you also know that fruit is fantastic for your dog? Dogs don’t need fruit to be healthy. Still, with your vet’s approval and guidance, you can give them an extra boost of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and some extra, always-welcome hydration by adding fresh fruits to their regular diet.

It’s important to remember that while many fruits are great for dogs, not all are when giving your dog fruit. In addition to reviewing our list of fruits you shouldn’t feed your pet at the bottom of this page, be sure to pay attention to how your dog responds to various fruits. If you notice any symptoms of an upset stomach or other discomforts, stop giving them the fruit, even if it is generally safe for them.

Here are some dog-friendly fruits:

Apples

Just like with people, apples are a healthy treat for dogs. Limit the number of slices you give your dog daily rather than a whole apple.

Vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, dietary fiber, and other nutrients are all abundant in apples. Your dog will enjoy the apple’s flavor, whether sweet or sour and its likely crunchiness.

Before giving the apple to your dog, wash it, and remove the core and any stems or seeds. The core of the fruit can present a choking hazard, and the seeds contain a substance that, when consumed, produces the toxin cyanide. It is still best to avoid giving your dog any apple seeds, even though the amount of cyanide that your dog would absorb from one piece of fruit would be insignificant.

Peeling the apple is your responsibility. Consider peeling to remove the extra fiber if your dog has a sensitive stomach. For variety, you can give your dog various varieties of apples. Due to the high sugar content of most apple varieties on store shelves, feeding applesauce is not advised. When purchasing apples, choose organic ones whenever possible because non-organic varieties are known to have higher levels of pesticide residue.

Avocados

The flesh of an avocado is safe for your dog to eat in moderation, but it’s best to avoid giving your dog avocados altogether or to give them very infrequently.

Avocados might be good for your health, both for you and your dog. The avocado fruit can keep your friend’s coat shiny because it contains many vitamins, fiber, and healthy monounsaturated fatty acids. But since avocados can upset a dog’s digestive system if consumed excessively, only the flesh of an avocado should be consumed by canines; the pit and skin should also be avoided. Fruit is high in calories, so if you treat yourself or add it to your meal, pick healthier alternatives.

The fruit’s leaves, skin, and pit are where you’ll mostly find persin, an avocado toxin. Never let your dog eat those things because they could lead to choking hazards or intestinal obstructions.

Bananas

Bananas are typically available in large quantities in the kitchen for family members to snack on. Due to their high content of dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, vitamins B6 and C, and potassium, bananas are a great way to boost the health of the entire family, including dogs. Consume bananas in moderation because they are high in sugar and starch. Although technically safe for dogs, refrain from letting your dog eat the banana peel as it may result in nausea or intestinal obstruction.

If your dog has mild digestive issues, bananas can be a tasty, fiber-rich treat beneficial when used sparingly. Your dog can be given the banana in a variety of fun ways. Try freezing the banana whole rather than peeling and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. You might also mash it and mix it into the food you give your dog. Alternatively, you could freeze a rubber toy with some peeled bananas inside, then give it to your dog as a fun treat and toy combination. Whatever method you use to feed the peeled banana, start with a small dose, check for any digestive issues, and then feed it sparingly moving forward.

Since a whole banana has about 105 calories, follow the 10% rule and give your dog a portion of your banana rather than the entire thing. Smaller dogs should only be given a few pieces of banana that are the right size, while larger dogs should only occasionally be given half of a banana that is the right size. (a few times a week at most).

Blueberries

You’ve probably heard about the health benefits of blueberries, which are extremely popular. They are good for the heart, the brain, and possibly even the blood sugar, according to what you may have heard. If you’re wondering if they’re good for your dog, the answer is yes. Blueberries are well known for their high levels of phytochemicals and antioxidants and their high nutritional content, including nutrients like manganese, vitamins C and K1, and vitamin K1. Antioxidants help fight off free radicals, which damage cells. Plants naturally contain phytochemicals, which have several health benefits, including potentially preventing cancer.

Blueberries are a ready-made treat due to their diminutive size. Give them to your dog after a thorough cleaning, or include a few in their meal. To give your dog a fun, new texture, you can freeze them and serve them to him right out of the freezer. They pose a choking risk, so use caution, especially when feeding them to small dogs. Give them a small squeeze just before feeding to let their scent out and reduce the likelihood that they will fall into your dog’s throat.

Start slowly, perhaps with just one berry or a few for a larger dog, as you would with other fruits, to see how your dog reacts to the new treat. Due to the high fiber content of blueberries, a dog’s stomach may become upset if they eat too many of them. Additionally, keep in mind to buy organic blueberries whenever you can.

Coconut

Coconut oil has been recommended for everything from allergies and sore spots to helping with dog dental care. So it shouldn’t come as a huge surprise that coconut meat can be a nutritious treat for dogs when given in moderation. The chemical makeup of coconuts has various potential benefits, such as antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants found in coconut are also abundant and can boost your immune system. As with many other fruits, the fiber content of coconuts can help with digestion, but moderation is always the key. Digestive issues can also result from eating too much fiber.

If you’ve successfully gotten your hands on some and have gone to the trouble of cracking open a coconut, try scooping out some of the meat for your dog. Ensure all shells have been removed to avoid choking and potential intestinal blockage. Several dried coconut products contain additives that are harmful to dogs and are frequently high in sugar, so use caution when giving them to your dog.

Cranberries

Cranberries are a healthy snack that is good for both people and dogs. They are high in fiber and contain antioxidants like vitamins C and E and other ingredients that can help boost immunity and fight inflammation. The notion that cranberries can shield against urethritis may have some basis.

Cranberries’ proanthocyanidin, believed to help prevent some bacteria from adhering to bladder cells, may have this beneficial effect. Cranberries and the prevention of UTIs haven’t been proven related, but some studies have hinted that there might be.

Therefore, even though cranberries shouldn’t be regularly given to dogs as a supplement for bladder health, if they enjoy the tart flavor, you can feel good about doing so. Feed them fresh or dried cranberries; avoid cranberry sauce and juice, which may contain extra sugars and ingredients. Avoid raisins as well.

It’s important to remember to eat moderate amounts of cranberries because they contain substances called oxalates that, if consumed in large quantities, can increase the risk of kidney stones.

Oranges

Oranges, known for having a high vitamin C content, might be acceptable as a tasty treat for your dog, but only in small amounts. Given their high sugar content, these fruits shouldn’t be given to your dog if they have diabetes or are overweight. Even if they can eat the fruit, only give them a few segments at first, and give small dogs just one or a few smaller pieces to see how their stomach responds. Due to their acidic nature, oranges can make people throw up and have diarrhea.

Remove all of the seeds and the white tissue (the pith) on the underside of the peel from an orange before giving it to your dog. Try not to be interested in orange juice. Because it is orange in concentrated form, making it even sweeter and more acidic, it harms dogs.

Peaches

Share the bounty with your dog if you take advantage of the bounty this summer. Dogs can consume the flesh of peaches in moderation because they are high in fiber and vitamin A. Make sure the peaches have been thoroughly washed before slicing them.

One thing to be on the lookout for with peaches is the pit. Amygdalin, a lethal substance found in peach pits, breaks down into hydrogen cyanide when consumed. Pits can cause dogs to choke, develop tooth decay, and experience intestinal blockages, among other dangers. Keep peaches out of your dog’s reach to ensure he doesn’t have access to them in all their forms. Instead, slice the peach flesh into bite-sized pieces and offer frozen or fresh snacks as a snack. Steer clear of peach cans.

Pears

Another fruit that is high in soluble fiber, which is important for digestive health, is the pears. They are also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K and minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Some serving recommendations for pears advise serving only ripe fruit, as unripe fruit can upset a dog’s stomach; on the other hand, avoid feeding overripe or rotting fruit. Remove the core, leaves, and stalk from the fruit, and wash it thoroughly. As a meal, garnish, slice it into 1-inch pieces, feed it raw, or grate it.

Pineapples

The pineapple is packed with large quantities of vitamins and minerals, particularly thiamine, copper, potassium, and magnesium. It might make a tasty, infrequent treat if your dog enjoys the taste.

In studies involving other animals, it has been demonstrated that bromelain, another enzyme present in pineapple, reduces inflammation in humans and has anti-inflammatory and other health advantages. Consuming pineapple treats sparingly is important because this tropical fruit has more sugar than some substitutes. It should go without saying that the core and spiky skin should never be fed; only fresh, raw pineapple should be consumed, never canned pineapple, which may have added sugar.

Pumpkin

Thanks to its high fiber, vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant content, pumpkin is a tasty treat for your dog and a healthy dietary and digestive supplement. It is a true superfood for dogs because it is frequently recommended for treating mild constipation and diarrhea symptoms in dogs. Although raw pumpkin is not technically toxic to dogs, it is hard to digest, so pick a plain, canned pumpkin for dogs with digestive problems.

In addition to digestive issues, you can use pumpkin as a treat or add more flavor to your dog’s food. For small dogs, start with a tiny amount—half a teaspoon—and if they tolerate it, up the dosage to one or two teaspoons. For large dogs, start with one tablespoon and work your way up to two to three tablespoons. Pumpkin can also make a tasty treat with health benefits by spreading it on a rubber toy like a Kong. Since pumpkin has five calories per tablespoon instead of peanut butter’s 100, it is a great substitute for it in this application and is typically a treat that can be licked.

Never feed your dog canned pumpkin pie filling because it could contain toxic xylitol or other harmful ingredients.

Raspberries

Like other berries, raspberries are considered a fruit that is safe for dogs to eat because they are bursting with goodness. Even though they have less sugar and calories than some other fruits, raspberries have more vitamin C, B-complex, and K. These antioxidants can reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, and arthritis, and dietary fiber supports the digestive system and makes a dog feel full.

All fruit should be eaten in moderation, but raspberries are especially so because they contain xylitol, an organic compound that is toxic to dogs. Although it would take a significant amount for a dog to become harmed, even the largest dogs should only receive a handful at a time, and smaller dogs should only get a few occasionally.

Strawberries

Your pet may benefit greatly from this delicious, energizing berry. In addition to fiber and antioxidants, they contain a lot of vitamin C. In addition, malic acid, which may aid teeth whitening, is present in them.

For your dog, slice the washed and stemmed strawberries into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you could mash them and add them to your dog’s food or freeze them for a different texture your dog prefers. Due to their sugar content, strawberries should only be given sparingly. Start with one strawberry for a larger dog. As they are laden with sugar and other potentially harmful additives, strawberries in cans should also be avoided. Similar to buying organic apples, purchase organic goods whenever possible.

Tomatoes

Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in abundance in tomatoes, has been associated with many health benefits, including lowering bad cholesterol, preventing sunburn, and perhaps even cancer. However, tomatoes also have chemical compounds called solanine and alpha tomatine that can be toxic when consumed in large enough quantities. Although solanine content in tomatoes decreases as they ripen, it is still found in the stem, leaves, and green, unripe tomatoes. 

The consensus is that dogs can, in moderation, eat ripe red tomatoes. Pet owners should be cautious not to allow their dogs to consume green foods regarding tomatoes. If you want to treat your dog, only give them a piece of ripe fruit, and keep any tomato plants in your garden fenced so that your dog can’t get to them. Once more, give a tiny amount to prevent upsetting their stomach.

Watermelon

On a hot day, we’ve taken some time to relax with some watermelon slices. Dogs can be given this juicy melon as a refreshing treat because it is 90% water, potassium, vitamins A, C, and B6, and fiber. Before feeding the watermelon to your dog, remove the rind and all of the seeds because they may result in blockages and other gastrointestinal risks.

Cut a cube of watermelon into pieces and feed them to your dog until they are all gone. Give your dog a taste of the new treat before offering more to ensure their stomach can withstand it. Just as with other fruits, moderation is key. The piece you give your dog will be a specific size depending on his size; for small dogs, it will be smaller; for large dogs, it will be larger.

Giving our dogs a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is the most important thing we can do for their health. But a few fruit-based treats can be a tasty reward, so experiment with the flavors and textures to find out what your dog likes!

Cantaloupes

Canned melon is safe for dogs to eat. The cantaloupe is a low-calorie, high-nutrient, and excellent source of water and fiber. But because it contains so much sugar, it should only be consumed in moderation—especially by dogs who are obese or have diabetes.

Cucumbers

A dog can eat cucumbers. For overweight dogs, cucumbers are advantageous because they are entirely free of carbohydrates, fats, and oils and can boost energy levels. In addition to biotin, potassium, copper, magnesium, and the vitamins K, C, and B1, they are also rich in biotin.

Mangoes

Dogs can eat mangoes without getting sick. Vitamins A, B6, C, and E are abundant in this mouthwatering summer treat. They also contain potassium and both beta- and alpha-carotene. Like with most fruits, remember to remove the hard pit because it can choke you and contains minute amounts of cyanide. Because it contains a lot of sugar, mango should only be enjoyed occasionally.

What Fruits Should You Not Feed Your Dog?

While there are many fruits that dogs can eat, as a responsible pet owner, you should also be aware of the fruits that dogs should not eat. These are as follows:

• Cherries
• Grapefruit
• Grapes
• Lemons
• Limes
• Plums

When giving fruit to your dog for the first time, always proceed with caution. Do your research, feed your dog small amounts at first, and keep an eye out for any warning signs of an adverse reaction because even fruits that aren’t on this list may cause problems for your specific dog.

Benefits of Fruit for Dogs

• Improves Digestion

Fruits are an excellent source of fiber, which can improve your dog’s digestion. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and prevents constipation. Fruits also contain enzymes that aid in digestion and nutrient absorption.

• Boosts Immune System

Fruits are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to boost your dog’s immune system. These nutrients help prevent diseases and promote overall health.

• Supports Weight Loss

Fruits are low in calories and fat, making them an excellent option for dogs who need to lose weight. Feeding your dog fruits instead of high-calorie treats can help them maintain a healthy weight.

• Promotes Healthy Skin and Coat

Fruits contain vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy skin and coat. These nutrients can prevent skin conditions, such as dryness and itching, and improve the shine and texture of your dog’s coat.

• Reduces the Risk of Chronic Diseases

Fruits contain antioxidants that can prevent and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. These nutrients neutralize free radicals that can cause cell damage and lead to chronic diseases.

Can Fruits Help with Your Dog’s Dental Health?

Fruits can help your dog’s dental health in several ways:

• Chewing fruits can help remove plaque and tartar buildup on your dog’s teeth. This is because the fibrous texture of fruits can scrape away the buildup of bacteria and debris on your dog’s teeth.
• Fruits are a natural source of vitamin C, which can help strengthen your dog’s gums and prevent them from becoming inflamed or infected.
• Fruits contain enzymes that can help break down bacteria in your dog’s mouth, reducing the risk of bad breath and tooth decay.

Best Fruits for Your Dog’s Dental Health

• Apples – Apples are a great source of fiber and can help promote good digestion. They also contain enzymes to help break down plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth.
• Carrots – Carrots are rich in vitamins and minerals that can promote good dental health. They are also a great source of fiber and can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.
• Strawberries – Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, which can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. They also contain malic acid, which can help whiten your dog’s teeth.
• Pineapple – Pineapple is a great source of vitamin C and contains an enzyme called bromelain, which can help break down plaque and tartar on your dog’s teeth.
• Watermelon – Watermelon is a low-calorie fruit rich in vitamin C and can help promote good dental health. It also contains a lot of water, which can help wash away bacteria and food particles from your dog’s mouth.

Precautions to Take

While fruits can help your dog’s dental health, it is important to take precautions when feeding them to your furry friend. Always wash fruits thoroughly before feeding them to your dog to remove pesticides or harmful substances. Additionally, remove any pits, seeds, or cores containing harmful substances. Lastly, remember that fruits should be given as a treat or supplement to your dog’s regular diet, and the serving size should be appropriate for their size and health.

What Happens If My Dog Eats Fruit That Is Not Allowed?

The canine species is wise. They occasionally eat unhealthy foods when they’re not paying attention. If you even suspect your dog may have consumed something poisonous, you must immediately act. Speak with your veterinarian right away. A few days pass before some symptoms start to manifest. Depending on the situation, your veterinarian will advise you to visit them immediately or wait to see if any symptoms appear.

Conclusion

Incorporating dog-friendly fruits into your dog’s diet can provide numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, boosted immune system, and healthy skin and coat. However, it is important to research and ensure that the fruits you feed your dog are safe and do not contain any harmful substances. You can improve their overall health and well-being by providing your dog with the right amount and variety of fruits. Remember, fruits should not replace your dog’s regular diet but instead be given as a treat or supplement. Consult a veterinarian for professional advice if you have any concerns or questions regarding your dog’s diet. Taking the necessary precautions and providing your dog with the proper nutrition ensures they live a long, healthy, and happy life.