Dogs are omnivorous animals, so they can eat both meat and plants. But can dogs eat fruits? The answer is, it depends. Some fruits are fine, but others can be highly dangerous. Even if a fruit is generally safe, dogs with health problems like obesity, diabetes, stomach issues, bladder stones, or allergies should not eat fruit without the vet’s approval. This guide will show you which fruits are safe for dogs and which ones to avoid.
Can Dogs Eat Fruit?
Sometimes, yes—but not always, as some fruits can be a deadly treat for your furry friend. If your dog eats a balanced and complete dog food, they’re already getting the nutrition they need. So, fruit isn’t necessary, although it can be a fun and healthy treat if given in small amounts.
Pro Tip: Any treats–including fruit, should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily food.
What Fruits Can Dogs Eat?
Apples
The first fruit that can be consumed safely by a dog is an apple, as it is full of vitamins, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Thus, they are a good, low-calorie snack for dogs. Before serving, just remember to remove the apple core and seeds first.
Bananas
Another safe fruit for your dog to consume is bananas, as they are full of fiber, potassium, and vitamins B6 and C. However, bananas also contain lots of sugar, so it's best to eat them in small amounts. Dogs can eat bananas, but not the peels—they’re hard to digest and might block their intestines.
Blackberries
Blackberries are rich in antioxidants and fiber. They do contain a tiny amount of xylitol (a sweetener that’s toxic to dogs), but your dog would need to eat a huge amount to be affected. A few berries once in a while are fine.
Blueberries
You can also give blueberries to your dog as part of their healthy snack. This fruit is low in calories and high in vitamin C. Thus, instead of giving regular dog snacks, blueberries can be a great option for snacks or food toppers.
Cantaloupe
This fruit is full of water and fiber, making it a good summer snack for your furry friend. But since it’s high in sugar, don’t give it to overweight or diabetic dogs.
Coconut
Coconut is generally safe for dogs because it has healthy fats and antioxidants, so it might help with their joints and skin. However, in some dogs, it can also cause stomach issues. You should consult the vet first before giving a coconut to your dog in order to avoid any risk.
Cranberries
Dogs can eat small amounts of cranberries, but they shouldn’t eat them as often. Whether fresh or dried, cranberries can be a tasty treat instead of sugary snacks. Too many, though, can upset your dog’s stomach.
Honeydews
Like other melons, honeydew is full of vitamins and has a lot of water, which helps keep your dog hydrated. It’s low in calories, but should only be given occasionally in small portions.
Kiwi
Small bite-sized pieces of kiwi are fine for your dog as it is full of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. It also has lutein, a nutrient that helps support eye health in both dogs and people. Be sure to take off the skin and seeds before feeding. If this is the first time your dog eats kiwi, make sure to ask your vet first and watch your dog closely for any bad reactions.
Mango
Dogs can enjoy mangoes as a treat now and then. It’s a sweet summer fruit packed with vitamins A, B6, C, and E, plus potassium and other nutrients. Additionally, mango also has a lot of sugar, so it’s best to only give it occasionally.
Oranges
Although dogs can generally eat oranges, they might not like the strong citrus smell. Always peel the orange and only give your dog the inside flesh—never the peel or seeds, as this can upset their stomach.
Papaya
Papaya is a safe fruit for dogs to eat and can help with digestion. But it’s best to avoid the seeds and skin, as they can block your dog’s intestines.
Peaches
Peaches are one of the fruits that are safe and can even help boost a dog's immune system. Just make sure to remove the pit as it contains cyanide, which is toxic. When you want to give peaches to your dog, it is best to opt for fresh peaches, as it is better than canned ones. The canned one usually has too much sugar in it.
Pears
Pears are packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and copper; thus, it is also one of the great and safe fruits for dogs to consume.
Pineapple
Although pineapple is sweet, it is still considered a healthy fruit treat for dogs. Pineapple has many vitamins, fiber, and bromelain, an enzyme that helps dogs absorb protein better. It also has minerals like manganese, copper, potassium, magnesium, iron, and calcium. But do keep in mind, when serving, always remove the outer skin and top first. Because it’s high in sugar, only give pineapple in small amounts occasionally.
Raspberries
While raspberries offer dogs beneficial antioxidants and are low in sugar and calories, they should only be given sparingly as occasional treats, particularly because they may help older dogs with joint discomfort.
Strawberries
Generally, strawberries are a safe food to consume for dogs as it is rich in fiber and vitamin C. However, please be mindful when giving strawberries to your fur baby, as strawberries have a high sugar content.
Watermelon
Watermelon is not only rich in vitamins, but it also has fiber that can aid in dogs' digestion. But before serving it to your dog, remember to always remove the seeds and rind first.
Important Tips: Before introducing any new food to your dog, especially human food, always consult with your vet. What is safe for one dog may not be safe for another due to individual factors like age, health background, current health status, and existing diet.
Fruit Dogs SHOULD NOT Eat
Avocado
Avocados are not safe for dogs. The skin and pit contain a toxin called persin that can make dogs throw up, have diarrhea, or worse! If your dog eats any part of an avocado, immediately call your vet to get the recommended action.
Lemons and Limes
Lemons and limes have substances that are poisonous to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and light sensitivity. Dogs don’t usually like the sour taste, but if they do eat it, contact your vet right away.
Cherries
Cherries have cyanide, which is very dangerous to dogs. It can stop their blood from carrying oxygen and cause serious health issues. If your dog eats a cherry, contact your vet right away and watch for signs like trouble breathing, seizures, red gums, shaking, and vomiting.
Grapes
Do not give grapes to your dog as this fruit is highly poisonous to all dogs, regardless of size or breed. In some serious cases, consuming grapes can lead to kidney failure and even death in some dogs. If your dog consumes even one grape, seek immediate veterinary care. Be alert for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or increased thirst.
Plums
While the fruit of a plum is not poisonous, the pit and other parts contain cyanide, a very harmful substance. If a dog consumes any part of a plum, immediate veterinary attention is necessary. You should also be alert for symptoms of poisoning, such as tremors, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
Raisins
Raisins are essentially dried grapes, and just like grapes, they’re very poisonous to dogs. If your dog eats any, you have to call the vet immediately and watch out for the symptoms of raisin poisoning. Some of the early symptoms are vomiting, dehydration, shivering, or low energy in your dog—these usually occur within 12-24 hours after ingestion.
Conclusion
Although fruits are generally a safe and tasty treat for your dog, it’s best to be mindful when serving them. Apples, bananas, blueberries, and watermelon are just a few examples of dog-friendly fruits that offer valuable nutrients and hydration. But, beware of some fruits like grapes, cherries, and avocados, which can be toxic and thus should always be avoided for dogs.
It’s important to always talk to your veterinarian before introducing any new fruit to your dog. Always remove seeds, pits, rinds, and skins as needed to prevent choking or digestive issues. And remember, fruit should only make up a small part of your dog’s overall diet!
