What fruit can dogs eat: a safe guide

When the heat arrives, plenty of owners wonder what fruit dogs can eat to cool them down and keep them hydrated without doing any harm. The good news is that several kinds of fruit for dogs are safe and nutritious in small amounts: they provide water, fibre and vitamins and work well as a healthy treat. The problem is that others are toxic or hard to digest. In this guide we go through which ones to give, which to avoid and how to serve them so they stay a treat rather than a scare.

What fruit dogs can safely eat

Most dogs tolerate these fruits well, as long as they're given in small pieces, without pips or stones, and in moderation:

• Apple (no seeds or core): crunchy, with fibre and vitamin C.
• Watermelon (no seeds or rind): very hydrating, almost entirely water.
• Pear without pips: sweet and easy to digest in small portions.
• Banana: full of energy and potassium, but better as an occasional treat because of the sugar.
• Strawberries and blueberries: packed with antioxidants and low in calories.
• Melon without seeds and peach without the stone.

Knowing what fruit dogs can eat is only half of it: the other half is the amount. Fruit should never replace their usual food; at most it should make up a small percentage of the day's calories.

Fruit dogs must not eat

There's fruit dogs must not eat that's worth committing to memory, because some of it is dangerous even in small doses:

• Grapes and raisins: they can cause severe kidney failure. Avoid them completely.
• Avocado: it contains persin, and the stone poses a risk of blockage.
• Cherries, plums and apricots: the flesh can be given carefully, but the stones contain cyanogenic compounds and are a choking hazard.
• Too much citrus (lemon, lime): the acidity upsets their stomach.

If you're in any doubt about a particular fruit, the sensible thing is not to offer it and to check with your vet. And if your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, go to the emergency vet without waiting for symptoms to appear.

Fruit for dogs in summer: hydration and cooling down

Fruit for dogs in summer is a great way to add water to their diet when the heat really bites. Watermelon and melon, with their very high water content, are perfect on the muggiest days. One trick that works particularly well is freezing small pieces of safe fruit (watermelon, banana or blueberries) and offering them as a natural ice lolly: it keeps them busy, cools them down and hydrates them all at once.

That said, extreme cold doesn't suit every dog, so start with a small amount and watch how they handle it. If you notice heavy digestion, diarrhoea or wind, cut the portion back or drop that fruit.

How to give your dog fruit safely

For fruit to stay a healthy treat rather than a problem, follow these guidelines:

• Wash it thoroughly and remove pips, stones, cores and tough skins.
• Cut it into small pieces to avoid choking, especially with small dogs and puppies.
• Introduce new fruits one at a time so you can spot any intolerances.
• No added sugar, syrup or tinned fruit: fresh, natural fruit only.
• If your dog has diabetes, is overweight or has kidney problems, speak to your vet first.

Serving the fruit in a bowl or accessory suited to your dog helps you control portions and turns treat time into an orderly routine.

Recommended amount by size

These are rough guides: fruit is an extra, never the basis of their diet. If your dog eats kibble or a balanced diet, their needs are already covered; fruit just adds a fresh touch and a treat with fewer calories than shop-bought snacks.

Conclusion

Now you know what fruit dogs can eat: apple, watermelon, banana, strawberries or blueberries in small amounts are a healthy option, while grapes, raisins and avocado are completely off the table. In summer, hydrating fruit is an ideal way to cool your companion down sensibly. At Velia Select you'll find accessories for your dog's wellbeing that make every treat easier and safer.