Key Points:
- Yes, dogs can eat pineapple in moderation as a sweet and juicy treat. Too much pineapple can cause diarrhea and sugar overload in dogs.
- In moderation, pineapple provides dogs with vitamins C, B6, A, and dietary fiber.
- Be sure to: Remove the hard outer layer and crown before feeding pineapple to dogs.
Is pineapple good for dogs?
Yes, pineapple is a safe and nutrient-packed treat for dogs. However, it’s important to share in reasonable portions. This tangy fruit can be a great addition to your dog’s diet, especially if they have skin allergies. However, they are packed with natural sugar which could be troublesome for dogs with diabetes or obesity. Read on to learn more about sharing this tasty treat with your pup.
Health benefits of pineapple for dogs
Pineapple is a very nutrient-dense fruit that can help support your dog’s immune system and digestive system. Every pineapple chunk is packed full of powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are great for your dog’s overall health.
Some of these include:
- Manganese
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Riboflavin
- Thiamin
- Vitamin B6
- Copper
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Niacin
- Iron
- Dietary fiber
- Folate
- Small amounts of calcium, phosphorus, and zinc
Pineapple also contains bromelain – aka nature’s antihistamine! This group of enzymes has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits that can be especially helpful to dogs with skin issues.
Ways to share pineapple with your pooch
The best way to share pineapple with your dog is to cut it up into tiny pieces. Make sure the pieces are small enough so that there isn’t a choking hazard, and hand feed them pieces to control the portions.
- Fresh pineapple: If cut into small pieces, you can hand-feed your dog fresh pieces of pineapple. This method is usually extra juicy and a great source of hydration for your pup.
- Frozen pineapple: Frozen pineapple cut into small bits can be a cool, hydrating treat on a hot summer day. Remember to keep these pieces small as well to avoid a choking hazard.
- Puréed pineapple: Purée pineapple and mix it into food or freeze it in ice-cube trays for a hydrating treat.
Avoid pineapple juice, dried pineapple, and canned pineapple products due to higher levels of sugar. These products typically consist of extra sweet syrup or more concentrated amounts of sugar which can be damaging to your pup’s health.
Pet Pro Tip: If you have a dog that is prone to ‘snacksidents’ – you should consider getting a dog insurance plan as soon as possible. It can help you afford the best care in the future by covering eligible vet bills for digestive illnesses, toxic ingestion, and more.
How much is too much pineapple for your dog?
Whenever you share a new food with your pup for the first time, it’s important to monitor their behavior. Dog owners should start with small quantities and monitor for abnormal poop, vomiting, or signs of an upset stomach. If you see any of these, consult your vet immediately.
Never share large amounts of pineapple with your pooch regardless of how well they respond to their new treat. The dietary fiber is great for your dog’s digestive tract; however, in high quantities, pineapple can upset their stomach.
Dogs and pineapple FAQs
Are all parts of the pineapple safe for dogs to eat?
Only the soft inner fruit is safe for your dog to eat. Both the spiky skin and hard inner pineapple core can cause an intestinal blockage or choking issue.
Does pineapple have too much sugar for my dog?
Pineapple has high sugar content, so it should be served sparingly. Even a small amount could negatively affect dogs with diabetes or obesity. Your vet is the best person to advise you on this front.
How will I know if my dog eats too much pineapple?
Dog treats or snacks should only make up 10% of your dog’s daily diet, the other 90% should be their dog food. If your dog eats too much pineapple, gastrointestinal issues such as straining to poop, vomiting, or diarrhea can occur. If you notice any of these symptoms after your dog eats pineapple, stop offering it.
Can dogs eat canned pineapple?
While dogs technically can eat canned pineapple, you’re better off feeding your dog fresh pineapple. Most canned pineapple products have unnecessary added sugars that aren’t the best for dogs.
Will pineapple stop my dog from eating poop?
This unappealing behavior is called coprophagia, and is a pretty common phenomenon with dogs. While there is no scientific evidence that feeding your dog pineapple will stop this problem, the idea is that the pineapple will make a dog’s poop smell strange and deter them from eating it. While it can’t hurt to try, most vets will tell you that the most effective way to discourage your dog from eating poop is to clean it up immediately, leaving no poop available to ingest.
In sum, pineapple can be a great snack for your pooch so long as you exercise portion control and cut it up into small bits. Like any human food, moderation is key when feeding your dog pineapple. When in doubt, your veterinarian is your best advocate should you have any questions about your dog’s diet.
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