Can dogs eat watermelon? Everything you need to know
Can dogs eat watermelon?
Yes, most dogs can safely eat watermelon!
Remove the seeds from the watermelon before giving it to your dog. The larger black seeds contain small amounts of cyanide and can be a choking hazard, while the thin, white seeds of seedless watermelon can cause stomach upset.
Do not give the rind of the watermelon to your dog, as it could be a serious choking hazard and even cause an intestinal blockage.
Is watermelon good for dogs?
Watermelon is a safe and healthy snack for most dogs. Watermelon contains mostly water and is low in calories.
However, watermelon contains sugar so if your dog suffers from diabetes or obesity or has a sensitivity to sugar, watermelon should be avoided. For most other dogs, it is perfectly fine for your dog to have watermelon in moderation.
How to feed a dog watermelon
- Remove the rind and any seeds
- Cut up some watermelon into small chunks about the size of a postage stamp
- Feed a few chunks to your dog as a treat
- Or add a few pieces of fresh or frozen watermelon to your dog’s food
How much watermelon can my dog eat?
Dogs should only be given watermelon in moderation, because too much can cause a stomach upset. Also, consider all the other treats your dog may have eaten; even healthy treats like watermelon should comprise only 10% of your dog’s overall diet.
- Small dogs should have only 1 to 3 small pieces (about the size of a postage stamp) of watermelon per day
- Medium dogs can have 5 to 6 pieces
- Large dogs should have up to a handful of pieces
- Extra-large dogs can have a large handful of pieces
The nutritional benefit of watermelon for dogs
- Contain vitamins A, C and B6
- Contains potassium
- Low in calories
- Fat- and cholestrol-free
Additionally, as watermelon is 92% water, it is helpful for hydration.
Watermelon recipes for dogs
Watermelon frozen delight
Ingredients:
- A few chunks of watermelon
- Strawberries, blueberries and/or banana
- Plain, unsweetened yoghurt
Other requirements:
Ice cube tray, Kong or Licky Mat (or other slow feeder that can hold wet food)
Method:
- Mash or puree watermelon with a couple of berries and/or a few slices of banana.
- Combine the mixture with a couple of spoonfuls of plain, unsweetened yoghurt.
- Fill the ice cube tray or Kong with the mixture and freeze for a cooling treat. Alternatively, spread the mixture over a licky mat for longer lasting enjoyment.
The risks of dogs eating watermelon
If your dog suffers from diabetes or obesity or has a sensitivity to sugar, watermelon should be avoided. Giving your dog too much watermelon at one time may cause a stomach upset, especially if your dog is not used to it. Always introduce a new food slowly and monitor for any signs of allergies or other ill effects. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, you can try giving her just a little watermelon to see if she has any reaction.
Too many treats in your dog’s diet can cause health problems over the long term, including obesity and diabetes. Treats, including healthy ones like watermelon, should only comprise 10% of your dog’s diet, and are best avoided altogether in dogs that are overweight, diabetic and/or on a prescription diet. Always consult your vet for nutritional advice if you are unsure.
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