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Ever wondered if your dog would appreciate a taste of the tropics? Pineapple might seem like an exotic choice, but it could be a surprisingly good addition to your pet's diet. We humans love to share our special treats with our dogs. It helps us feel a sense of connection with them. One of those sweet, yet nutritious, treats that is safe to share with our pups is pineapple. Pineapple can even provide some healthy benefits to our dogs, but we must make sure to only offer it in moderation.
Can dogs eat pineapple? Pineapples are not only sweet and crunchy, they’re also packed with a load of nutrients that can benefit your dog. Some of those nutrients include vitamin C to boost immunity, B vitamins to aid in brain function and metabolism, manganese for blood clotting and bone health, potassium for muscle and nerve function, and magnesium for bone health. And that’s just the vitamins and minerals. Pineapples also contain antioxidants for healthy aging and to help prevent chronic diseases as well as an enzyme that may help in the digestion of meat, something dogs may find helpful. There’s also a ton of water to help a pup stay hydrated and feel full longer.
Now for what pineapple doesn’t have—a lot of fat or calories. So, your dog will reap the nutritional benefits without worrying about weight gain.
Safe Ways to Feed Pineapple to Dogs
Though you may favor a pineapple upside down cake, that’s not how you should share pineapple with your dog. Instead, stick with raw or frozen pineapple that is cut into chunks. You may also consider creating a homemade pup treat using pineapple with other tropical temptations.
Avoid dried pineapple because removing the water only concentrates the sugar, making even small pieces a little too sweet to be healthy for most dogs. You also want to keep canned pineapple away from your dog because the thick syrup it is typically packed in is very high in sugar. Pineapple juice and pineapple baked goods are also off the table due to the sugar content and addition of other potentially harmful ingredients.
Parts of the Pineapple to Avoid
Dogs should only eat the flesh of the pineapple. Remove the core and skin first as these can be irritating and hard to digest. Keep in mind that most dogs are going to avoid the skin on their own anyway because it would be like eating a prickly pinecone but be sure to cut it away before offering your dog a slice just in case.
Guidelines for Feeding Pineapple to Dogs
Start with a fresh pineapple, remove the skin and core, and chop it into chunks. Be sure these chunks are large enough that your dog must chew them rather than swallow them whole and risk choking on them.
If going the frozen route, choose chunks that aren’t going to be gobbled down without chewing. Some dogs may actually prefer them frozen, while others will choose to wait until they’ve thawed.
Keep the portions small, only a couple of bites, and only offer pineapple for dogs once or twice a week. It’s not an everyday, all you can eat kind of food. Always monitor your dog afterward for signs of digestive issues, such as vomiting, diarrhea or not eating and speak to your vet if these signs are severe or don’t go away within a day or two.
Some dogs may have a reaction to pineapple that can be severe, so contact your vet if you notice any issues, including skin irritation, mouth sores, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or difficulty breathing.
On the vet note, always check with them first before adding anything like pineapple to your dog’s treat/snack menu. They want to be able to help you to determine if the food is safe, healthy and in what amounts you can give it to your dog.
If you’re looking for other healthy snacks to give your pup, try asking your vet can dogs eat green beans? And can dogs eat potatoes?
Potential Drawbacks of Feeding Pineapple to Dogs
While pineapple can make a lovely addition to your dog’s treat list, it can also lead to a scenario where there’s too much of a good thing. Here’s why: pineapple and many other fruits and vegetables have a high fiber content. Fiber can be beneficial to digestion in the right amounts, but too much can actually tip the scales in the wrong direction, potentially fouling up the system. Bloating, gas, constipation or diarrhea may ensue.
On a similar note, pineapple has a fairly high sugar content as well. That’s why we like it so much! But too much sugar is bad for dogs, just as it is bad for people. High levels of sugar can cause digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, and excessive sugar consumption over time can lead to weight gain. Diabetic dogs should also steer clear of pineapple and other sugary fruits.
Finally, pineapple is high in citric acid, something that can further burden the digestive system, including creating sores in your dog’s mouth and weakening their tooth enamel.
While pineapple can be a delightful addition to your dog's diet, it's important to remember that even the most innocent-looking treats can sometimes lead to unexpected problems. If your dog accidentally consumes too much pineapple or ingests some other harmful substance, the resulting veterinary care can be costly.
That's where pet insurance comes in. A comprehensive pet insurance policy can provide financial protection in the event of unexpected accidents or illnesses, including those related to food ingestion. Pet insurance can help alleviate the financial burden and allow you to focus on your pet's recovery.
Embrace Pet Insurance offers a customizable plan designed to meet the unique needs of your furry friend. With our coverage options can help ensure that your pet will receive the best possible care, even if they have a mishap with a pineapple or other food.
Remember: While pineapple is generally safe for dogs, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet's diet. And to protect yourself from unexpected veterinary costs, consider investing in a pet insurance policy.
Pineapple is Alright for Dogs
Want to share a slice of paradise with your furry friend? Pineapple, with its sweet and tangy flavor, is a tropical treat that can bring the taste of summer to your pup. So, the next time you're enjoying a piece of pineapple, consider sharing a small bit with your canine companion. It's a small gesture that can make a big difference in their day.