While some fruits can be very toxic to dogs, like grapes, raisins and avocados, some of them are a fantastic treat for your pup and can provide some wonderful health benefits.
That is, if you can get your dog to eat them haha
You should always use fresh fruit as opposed to canned, and just like it would for yourself, preparation should include washing, removal of stems and leaves, then chopping into bite-sized pieces.
Seeds and pits should also be removed, as many of them contain cyanide or arsenic. In order for it to actually poison your dog or yourself, the seeds/pits would need to be crushed and consumed en masse — but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Besides, those things can be rough on puppy’s digestive system, too!
Apples
A great source for fiber, potassium, and Vitamin C, apples are a treat that is good AND good for your dog. Just make sure to leave out the cores and seeds which contain small amounts of arsenic, which can be toxic to both dogs and humans if ingested in large amounts.
Blackberries and Raspberries
Loaded with antioxidants as well as fiber, polyphenols, manganese, folate and Vitamins A, C, E and K, these tiny berries are both safe and tasty for poochie to eat.
Cantaloupe
Full of potassium, fiber, folic acid, beta-Carotene and Vitamins A and C, cantaloupe is a tasty treat for the summer that humans and their furry friends can enjoy together. Just make sure to remove the rind, which can potentially carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella.
Watermelon
With its high water content, watermelon is a sweet way for Fido to get a quick dose of hydration. Along with that hydration comes beta-Carotene, magnesium, potassium and lots of Vitamin A and C.
Blueberries
Just a few of these little berries delivers a tangy, sweet snack for poochie and loads of antioxidants, zinc, iron and Vitamins A, B, C and E.
Peaches and Nectarines
Sticky, sweet and naturally full of fiber and Vitamin A, peaches are a great choice to give your pup a little treat. Be sure to chop it into-bite sized pieces and keep the pit away from your furry friend, as it contains small amounts of cyanide and can cause digestive distress.
Strawberries
As with most berries, a small amount will safely make poochie happy and give him an extra boost of vitamins including potassium, magnesium, folic acid, omega-3 fats, and Vitamins B1, B6, C and K. Simply remove the hull and toss to your pup.
Bananas
Filled with potassium, carbohydrates and Vitamin C, this is a sweet treat that your pup will just gobble up and is included in many recipes for dog treats you can make yourself at home. Once you remove the peel you can freeze it, puree it, bake it or serve it straight up — the options are endless.
Pears
High in antioxidants, fiber, folic acid, niacin, and potassium, as well as Vitamins A, C, E, B1 and B2, just a few cubes of pear can pack a powerful punch in the nutrient department.
Pineapple
Super hydrating and full of nutrients like potassium, magnesium, iron, and Vitamin C and B6, this juicy fruit is a great treat for your pup. Studies also suggest that pineapple can be a deterrent for doggies who tend to consume feces — just sprinkle some of the diced fruit atop the waste and the high sulfur content in the pineapple will create a taste in the dog’s mouth that he won’t soon forget. No matter how you’re using it, to prepare, remove the spiky outer skin and chop into bite-sized pieces.
Pumpkin
Yes, pumpkin — it’s a fruit! And it’s one that a lot of dogs seem to really like the taste of. Just like its more well-known fruity friends, it’s filled with nutrients like beta-Carotene, fiber, potassium, calcium, zinc and Vitamins A and C. Also, due to its fiber content, it’s a great remedy for a pup with digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea. It also helps with weight loss in dogs!
Mango
This tropical treat is full of fiber, pectin, antioxidants and Vitamin A and C. Remove the skin and pit to serve (just like peaches and nectarines, mango pits also contain traces of cyanide) and share a yummy snack with your dog.
Apricot
Whether it’s enjoyed fresh or dried, these delicious little fruits are chock full of nutrients including antioxidants, beta-Carotene, fiber and Vitamin A and C. As with anything else that has a pit, make sure that it’s removed and kept out of your dog’s reach.
Kiwi
Kiwis are a great choice to feed your dog, as they provide some great health benefits for both the respiratory system and the eyes. They contain lots of potassium, fiber, antioxidants and Vitamin C — and they taste delicious!
Cranberries
A fantastic source of fiber, manganese and Vitamin C, cranberries can promote urinary tract health in your poochie, just like they do in humans. To serve, stew about 2 tablespoons of cranberries in a pot of water and mix them in with your regular dog food.
Did we leave anything off this list? Let us know in the comments and we may add it!
Note: We are not certified doctors or veterinarians. Although this information was researched, it is best to check with your vet before changing your dog’s diet.
