Healthy Fruits Your Dog Will Love

January 19, 2023

We all know the importance of our 5-a-day. However, it can be hard to know what foods your canine companion is allowed to eat. Fruit pupsicles are a great dog snack that can help your pet get vital nutrients. However, some fruits can be damaging to your pet's health.

We've created this easy guide to the fruits your dog can and can't eat. Read on if you want to know how to prepare a dog snack that your furry friend will love.

Should You Feed Your Dog Fruits?

Many dog owners are unsure about feeding their animals foods that humans also eat. However, many fruits are excellent for dogs. They can help to keep them healthy and be a fun dog snack in addition to their more consistent daily diet.

Dog treats that contain fresh fruit are also great for hydration. Dogs expend a lot of energy running around and playing. If they are not drinking enough water, they can become dehydrated and experience various problems, including fatigue, vomiting, and even liver failure. A dog snack that contains water (like fruit) can keep animals hydrated.

Fruits That Your Dog Will Love

There are many healthy fruits that you can give your pet. Read on for some of the best options for tasty dog treats.

Blackberries

Berries make a great dog snack as they're small and can easily be added to wet food or pupsicles. Make sure to cut blackberries up before feeding them to a smaller animal.

Benefits

These fruits have high levels of vitamins C and K, fiber, and magnesium.
The antibacterial properties of the berries can improve oral hygiene.

Blueberries

Blueberries are popular with dogs due to their sweet taste and soft texture. They can mainly be eaten whole, but if your dog is very small you may need to cut them in half.

Benefits

Blueberries have a lower sugar content than other types of berry, making them excellent for older or diabetic pets.
The berries contain various nutrients, including zinc, vitamins C and K, iron, magnesium, and calcium. They’re also packed with antioxidants.

Cranberries

Some dogs don't like the taste of cranberries — so do a test run and feed them one before making a bulk order. However, your dog is in for a health boost if they do become attached to this delicious snack.

Benefits

Cranberries are high in fiber, which lowers the risk of developing a range of issues - including stroke, hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes.
These popular treats can help bladder heath and may reduce the risk of cancer.

Raspberries

Raspberries are very popular with dogs due to their sweet taste. They can be eaten whole unless you are feeding a younger puppy or very small dog.

Benefits

Raspberries contain powerful antioxidants. They can reduce the risk of cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.
They are also high in folic acid, magnesium, fiber, and vitamins B, C, and K-complex.

Strawberries

You should only feed your dog strawberries in small amounts as they are high in sugar. However, a small amount can still have a huge impact on the health of your pup.

Benefits

These delicious fruits are a great source of nutrients - including vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium. These will help to keep your pet’s immune system healthy.
Strawberries are high in folate, vitamins B-6, K, and E.

Bananas

Bananas are great for your pet. Easily create a dog snack by blending, slicing, or freezing bananas. However, you should watch their portions as bananas are high in sugar.

Benefits

These fruits are great to take on walks. They’re a good source of energy and can keep your dog full between meals.
Bananas are also high in potassium, vitamins B6 and C, fiber, and magnesium.

Papaya

Your pet shouldn't eat the skin and seeds of papaya - but the flesh makes a great snack. It’s a safe and exciting fruit for your pet to try, and can be served fresh or frozen.

Benefits

These fruits are not just tasty - they’re also a great source of fiber.
Papaya is high in vitamins A, C, E, and K. The treat also contains a lot of calcium, folate, and potassium.

Watermelons

Melons like watermelon are high in water, making them a great option for hydrating your pet. Remove the rind and seeds before giving watermelon to your pet.

Benefits

As the name suggests, this fruit is filled with water, making it great for summer hydration.
Watermelon is also high in vitamins A, B-6, and C.
The fruit contains high levels of thiamin, which helps to convert protein, carbohydrates, and fat into energy.

Cantaloupe

Like watermelon, you should remove the rind of the cantaloupe before feeding it to your pet. This is to prevent intestinal damage, as the rind is rough and can irritate the digestive system.

Benefits

Cantaloupe has high amounts of beta-carotene, helping to boost the immune system and aid healthy vision.
The fruit contains a range of nutrients, including fiber, folate, niacin, potassium, and vitamins A, B-6, and C.

Fruits You Should Never Give Your Dog

It's important to be aware of foods that are not suitable for your pet. For example, the following fruits are not suitable for consumption by pets. If you suspect your animal may have eaten some of these foods, you should take them to an emergency vet right away.

Grapes: Grapes, including raisins, can lead to kidney failure in canines.
Lemons: Dogs usually avoid lemons due to their pungent taste. Citric acid can cause health issues.
Grapefruit: Grapefruits also contain lots of citric acids, which are toxic to dogs.
Plums: Plums contain hydrogen cyanide, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Signs of plum poisoning can include shivering, vomiting, and breathing difficulties.
Cherries: Although the flesh of cherries is not toxic to dogs, the stem, leaves, and pit are. While they can eat pitted cherries, it's a lot of work. You also run the risk of your pet swallowing a pit because you missed one. In most cases, it's best to avoid cherries altogether.
Limes: Make sure your dog does not have any contact with limes, including the juice and skin.

Never feed your dog any food unless you are completely certain that it is safe. Consult with a vet if you are unsure about your pet's diet.

How to Prepare Tasty Dog Treats

Now that you know that fruit is a great dog snack, you're probably wondering how to persuade a picky pooch to try it. There are several great options that you can try, from pupsicles to smoothies. These will keep your pup happy and healthy.

Extra Treats

Dog treats are an excellent way to motivate your pet to do tricks, behave, and learn new skills. Using fruit as treats will encourage them to associate fruits with good behavior.

Pop a small berry in a puzzle toy if you want to challenge your pet while providing a healthy dog snack. Dogs are very motivated by food, so it's a great way to build their confidence and improve training.

Pupsicles

You can make your own pupsicles with frozen blended fruit or vegetables. Not only are they tasty, but pupsicles are an excellent option for a hot day if you want dog treats to cool your animal down. You can also add cut-up fruit to water and freeze it similarly. These pupsicles will keep your pet entertained, hydrated, and happy.

Smoothies

Smoothies aren't just for fitness gurus — they can be a great way to introduce your pet to fruit. You can start with a base, such as water or broth, and add in any fruit or vegetables you want. Just make sure that all the ingredients you use are safe for dogs if you're using any store-bought mixtures.

Meal Toppers

Fruit is very versatile. It can be added to the top of any bowl of food, giving your dog extra nutrients on top of their normal meals. This is also a great way to introduce variety to your animal's diet and help prevent puppies from becoming picky eaters.

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There are few things more rewarding than having your own puppy, but taking care of them can be a stressful task. However, it's normal to need support, particularly if it's your first pet.

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