Bananas are the perfect snack. They are sweet, nutritious and come in their own convenient packaging. But can dogs eat it? According to experts, the answer is yes!
Unlike other fruits, which can have toxic components, every part of a banana is edible for dogs. However, some risks remain. Experts explain how and when to offer this fruit to your dog without causing digestive upset.
Can dogs eat bananas?
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. They may not get all the same nutritional benefits as humans, but they will enjoy receiving them as treats.
If you’re wondering if puppies can eat bananas, consult your veterinarian. Puppies need special food to grow and develop well. The calories from bananas and other fruits could interfere with their development.
Are this fruit good for dogs?
It’s best to offer your dog a peeled banana, but don’t worry if he swallows a whole one. Banana peels are not toxic to dogs. “That doesn’t mean your dog won’t vomit or have diarrhea if he eats a whole banana,” said Jan Dempsey, senior nutritionist at Purina. This reaction means that his system is not used to digesting all the fibers that a banana peel contains. It is always best to peel this fruit and cut it into suitable portions.
Bananas are low risk for dogs (unlike grapes or cherries), but they’re not as nutritious as you might think. Since they come in small portions, their beneficial nutrients are not noticeable. It doesn’t matter, according to the expert. She explains, “Bananas contain certain nutrients like potassium. But if your dog is getting a complete and balanced diet, you won’t depend on bananas to provide it.”
When are bananas bad for dogs?
Like other fruits, bananas contain natural sugar. Too much sugar can lead to weight gain in dogs, which can cause other health issues. To avoid these negative effects, follow the 90/10 rule: 90% of your dog’s daily calories should come from his dog food and 10% from treats.
Some people believe that bananas will relieve symptoms of digestive disorders like diarrhea. According to Jan Dempsey, “bananas are not a miracle cure for dogs with diarrhea or constipation.” Instead of feeding your dog more bananas, watch his diet and reduce the amount you give him to see what he tolerates. If diarrhea and other symptoms persist after 24 hours, call your veterinarian.
How to Serve Bananas to Dogs
As mentioned before, it’s best to talk to your veterinarian before offering any new foods to your dog or puppy. They will be able to tell you the ideal portions to serve them based on their age, size and other factors. To serve a banana to your dog, peel it and cut it into appropriate portions.
If your dog doesn’t seem to like fresh bananas, try freezing them instead. “Freezing a fruit or vegetable makes it interesting by changing its texture. In the eyes of an animal, it is probably a completely different treat, since its different texture and temperature give it a unique experience,” explains the nutritionist. Frozen bananas are especially tasty and refreshing on hot days.
By following these recommendations, you can safely offer bananas as a special treat to your dog. If you have more questions like this, check out similar expert articles on other fruits and vegetables.
