Pineapple is deliciously packed with nutrients, so it’s natural for owners to wonder if their dog should get a bite of it too. Find out if dogs can eat pineapple and how to feed it to our canine friends.
This tropical fruit is a favourite in many households which means chances are our four-legged friends have already crossed paths with the pineapple fruit and its many different guises: fresh, dried, frozen and even grilled. But can dogs actually have pineapple? Is it safe to let our pet have a bite of this beloved fruit? Keep reading to find out.
Can dogs eat pineapple?
Dogs can eat pineapple, but in moderation. The fruit does not contain toxic or dangerous nutrients for dogs, but you should still monitor your pet for any unusual reactions, such as an upset stomach, especially the first time they eat pineapple. Keep in mind that fruits are high in sugar which might make existing health conditions worse. Always consult the vet before giving your dog new food.
Is pineapple good for dogs?
Pineapple is packed with various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, magnesium and iron. However, dogs will get these nutrients and many more from their specially-formulated dog food. There is no nutritional need to add pineapple to your dog’s diet, but if you choose to do so keep in mind that this is a fruit that’s high in sugar, so only allow pineapple snacks for your dog in moderation.
If you want to find out more about all the different nutrients your pet needs and how to feed your dog a balanced diet check out our in-depth article.
When is pineapple harmful for dogs?
Although full of nutrients, fruits are also high in sugar which means they are not an ideal snacking option for your pet. Too much sugar can lead to diabetes in dogs and weight problems.
Remember the general guideline for dog treats is to not exceed more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. If you decide to offer pineapple as a treat, make sure to use small amounts.
Can dogs eat canned pineapple?
While dogs can eat pineapple, the canned version should be avoided. The syrup keeping the pineapple chunks fresh is usually high in sugar, which can lead to health problems if not consumed in moderation by our canine friends. If in doubt, read the label before feeding canned pineapple to your dog and stay away from syrupy ones.
Can dogs eat all the parts of a pineapple?
No. The core and the skin of the pineapple are very hard and can quickly become a choking hazard for your pet. Make sure to remove those and only offer your dog the flesh part of the fruit, cut into bite-sized chunks.
Frozen pineapple
If you’re after a refreshing dog treat for the hot summer months, try freezing a few pineapple chunks and offer them as a snack to your pet whenever the temperatures call for a cool indulgent treat. Beware of choking hazards for smaller breeds and keep the chunks small.
Fresh pineapple
Fresh pineapple is a better choice than the canned version. Just make sure you remove the spiky skin and the hard core. Take the fleshy part out and cut it into cube shapes. Smaller shape sizes are usually preferable as it can help with portion control.
Dried pineapple
Dried pineapple is not recommended as a dog treat. Dried fruits usually pack a higher amount of sugar per portion. As the water is removed, the fruit portions become smaller, but the quantity of natural sugar remains the same. This is why it’s incredibly easy to go overboard when it comes to dried pineapple or any other dried fruit. If you do end up offering it as a snack, don’t lose sight of portion control.
Pineapple is not a toxic food for dogs, but it is generally not recommended to add it to your dog’s diet. Remember that your pet will take the nutrients they need from food specifically designed for them and if you’re looking for a good dog treat, there are plenty of healthier options to choose from.
Even though pineapple is not dangerous, there are other seemingly harmless fruits and vegetables that can pose a threat to dogs if ingested. Discover our comprehensive list of harmful foods for dogs here.
