As it turns out, fruit is a healthy snack for humans and dogs alike. Fruits can be given as a treat when you are training your dog when they are cut into small pieces. Be sure to remove any inedible skins, seeds and pits before giving them to your pet. It is a good idea to go ahead and talk to your veterinarian about feeding fruit to your dog. Let’s take a look at this list of fruits that are safe for a dog to eat, according to DogChannel®.
- Apples are first on the list of fruits that are healthy for your dog. First, make sure that you don’t give your dog the core or seeds as they contain arsenic. Apples are a great source of potassium and fiber, as well as phytonutrients, flavonoids and vitamin C. About half of an apple is the right size for your dog to eat.
- Bananas are another fruit that is healthy for dogs. An excellent source of potassium and carbohydrates, give your dog only about 1 inch of a banana, and never the peel.
- Blackberries can also be eaten by dogs. They are high in vitamins C, K, A and E. They are a source of antioxidants, polyphenols, tannin, fiber, manganese, folate and omega-3’s. No need to overdo this healthy snack, about 3 berries is all you should give your dog.
- Blueberries are also good for dogs. They are high in vitamins C, E, A and B complex. They are an excellent source of antioxidants, selenium, zinc and iron. Again, just about 3 berries will do for a snack.
- Cranberries are an especially beneficial fruit for dogs as they fight against urinary tract infections. They are high in vitamin C, fiber and manganese. Two tablespoons of stewed cranberries added to your dog’s food bowl is about right.
- Cantaloupes are a source of Vitamin A, B complex and C. They are a great source of fiber, beta-carotene, potassium, magnesium, thiamine, niacin, pantothenic acid and folic acid. One wedge is the right amount to give to a dog.
- Kiwis are a great source of fiber, potassium and vitamin C. One slice of kiwi is all that you need.
- Oranges are good for dogs, as long as they are not given too much. Only 1 segment at a time should be given. They are high in fiber, potassium, calcium, folic acid, iron flavonoids and phytonutrients. They have vitamins A, C, B1 and B6. Be sure to remove the rind and any seeds before you give oranges to your dog.
- Pears are a great source of vitamins A, C, E, B1 and B2. They are high in fiber, folic acid, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, copper and pectin. Just give your dog about 1 or 2 pear cubes.
- Pumpkin is a great snack for your dog as it helps out their digestive tract. It is great for easing constipation. Give them about 1 to 3 tablespoons of pureed pumpkin. It is a great source of fiber, beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, zinc, iron, potassium and vitamin A.
- Raspberries may also be given to your dog, at 2 or 3 at a time. They are a source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, potassium, manganese, copper iron and magnesium.
- Strawberries are another berry that your dog can eat. They have fiber, potassium, magnesium, iodine, folic acid, omega 3’s, and vitamins C, K, B1 and B6. One strawberry is plenty for a dog to eat.
- Watermelon is also healthy for your dog. Feed him 1 to 3 pieces of a 1-inch watermelon wedge will be plenty for the dog. Watermelon has vitamins C, A, potassium and magnesium.
Now that you know what fruits are okay, you should also know what fruits to NOT give to your dog. These include grapes, raisins and figs. You also need to make sure you don’t let them chew on orange or lemon trees as they have essential oils that are toxic to dogs.