Can Dogs Eat Watermelon? – Forbes Advisor

Good information in your tail-wagging mates: When it involves watermelon—considered one of summer time’s most hydrating fruits—dogs can safely eat some.

“Watermelon is a delicious and refreshing treat that is not only safe for dogs but also provides some health benefits,” says Dr. Lindsay Butzer, DVM, and companion at PetMeds, an internet pet pharmacy firm.

“It’s low in calories, high in water content, and packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a great hydrating snack for your furry friend, especially during the hot summer months,” provides Butzer.

Before you add this refreshing deal with to your pup’s bowl, there are just a few security precautions to observe first. And don’t overlook to test along with your vet earlier than beginning any new meals along with your canine, a transfer that must be coated by your pet insurance coverage.

Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?

Yes, dogs can eat watermelon. Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, MRCVS and author for Love Your Dog, a canine possession info web site, says giving just a few small items to your pup is “a great way to maintain hydration in the heat.”

Watermelon additionally comprises vitamins, fibers, and antioxidants, which “are great for dog health,” Woodnutt provides.

While watermelon is a protected and attractive deal with for dogs, its rinds and seeds must be prevented “as they are indigestible and may cause choking,” in response to Woodnutt. Seeds specifically can create blockages that trigger discomfort in your canine.

Can puppies have watermelon?

Yes, puppies can get pleasure from watermelon, too. Butzer suggests introducing watermelon to puppies in small quantities to “monitor for any allergic reactions or digestive issues.”

Can dogs eat watermelon rind?

No, dogs shouldn’t eat watermelon rind or watermelon seeds. These may cause digestive points, together with blockages of their digestive tract, gastrointestinal points, and choking, in response to Butzer and Woodnutt.

Is Watermelon Good for Dogs?

Watermelon is nice for dogs, however just a few security precautions must be taken earlier than feeding it to your pet. Seeds and rind may cause digestive issues and must be eliminated earlier than giving your canine watermelon, in response to Butzer. Alternatively, you’ll be able to feed them seedless watermelon.

To guarantee simple digestion (and reduce choking dangers), Butzer suggests chopping the watermelon into small, bite-sized items. Then give your canine just a few bites and monitor their response.

“If they enjoy it and don’t show any adverse effects, you can gradually increase the portion,” Butzer says, including, “but it’s best to limit it to a few small pieces per day.”

Watermelon is scrumptious and nutritious, however there may be such a factor as an excessive amount of of factor.

“If you leave your pup to eat as much watermelon as he wants, the sudden intake of fluid, sugar, and fiber could cause a gastrointestinal (gut) upset,” explains Woodnutt. (Translation: vomiting or bouts of diarrhea that isn’t enjoyable for anybody.)

To keep away from this, give watermelon items to your canine as an every-now-and-then deal with, relatively than a most important a part of their food regimen.

Another factor to remember is that you simply shouldn’t feed your canine moldy or out-of-date watermelon that you simply wouldn’t eat your self. “Eating moldy fruit can lead to illness, therefore, always check the ripeness of the fruit before offering any to your pet,” says Woodnutt.

How to Feed Watermelon to Your Dog

There are many various methods to feed watermelon to your canine, from chopping contemporary slices to pureeing the juicy fruit. Consider these choices:

• Raw watermelon: Remove the seeds and rind and feed 2-3 items to small dogs and as much as a cup of watermelon to bigger dogs, in response to Woodnutt.
• Frozen watermelon: Make certain the items are sufficiently small to forestall choking, says Butzer.
• Pureed watermelon: Remove seeds and ensure your canine doesn’t eat an excessive amount of that it makes them sick.

If you concern they might have by chance ingested rinds or seeds, contact your veterinarian.

Health Benefits of Watermelon for Dogs

Watermelon can have many health benefits for dogs. It’s extraordinarily hydrating and comprises vitamins that support in digestion and assist the immune system.

Watermelon comprises many vitamins

Watermelons are filled with nutritional vitamins and different vitamins, “which are essential for your dog’s overall health,” in response to Butzer.

“Vitamin C aids with healing and reduces inflammation while vitamin A is important for healthy skin and muscles,” provides Woodnutt. “Furthermore, vitamin B6 is important for red blood cells and the immune system. All in all, watermelon is a great source of these nutrients.”

Watermelons comprise the next nutritional vitamins and vitamins:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin C
• Potassium
• Phytonutrients or antioxidants, that are compounds produced naturally by vegetation which might be filled with well being advantages.

Watermelon is Hydrating

A watermelon is made up of about 92% water, which helps “to keep your dog hydrated and promotes healthy digestion,” says Butzer.

Which Foods Can Dogs Eat?

There are many fruits which might be protected for dogs to eat for a snack, together with:

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