Can Dogs Eat Kiwi? Everything You Need to Know
We all love a refreshing slice of kiwi, but can our furry friends join in on the fun? The answer is yes! Kiwis can be a delicious and nutritious occasional treat for dogs. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before sharing this fuzzy fruit with your pup.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about feeding kiwi to your pup.
Let’s dive in!
Contents
Is Kiwi Good for Dogs?
Kiwifruit is considered a “nutrient-dense fruit” that packs a lot of goodness into each serving. It’s an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system, as well as fiber and potassium. These key nutrients play important roles in your dog’s overall health and well-being.
The high fiber and water content in kiwi has led some nutrition experts to recommend it to humans as a natural remedy for digestive issues like constipation. The same potential benefits apply to our canine companions. However, too much of a good thing can sometimes cause problems. Eating large amounts of kiwi may lead to an upset stomach or diarrhea in some dogs, especially those with sensitive tummies.Â
Another factor to consider is the sugar content. While kiwi contains natural sugars, not added ones, it’s still relatively high in sugar compared to some other fruits. For dogs with diabetes or blood sugar regulation issues, the sugar in kiwi could potentially cause unhealthy spikes. It’s best to consult with your vet about whether kiwi is a safe snack based on your individual dog’s health status.
How to Safely Prepare Kiwi for Your Dog
Proper preparation is key to making kiwi a safe snack for Fido. First, always thoroughly wash the outside of the kiwifruit to remove any dirt, pesticides, or other residues. Then, carefully peel off the fuzzy brown skin. While kiwi skin isn’t toxic to dogs, it’s very difficult to digest. Think of it like a roughage – it may lead to uncomfortable gas and bloating.
Next, cut the green kiwi flesh into small, bite-sized pieces. This is an essential step, as giving your dog a whole kiwi (or any round fruit) can pose a serious choking hazard. Those little black seeds inside the fruit are fine to leave in – they’re small enough that they shouldn’t cause any blockages or choking issues. Some dogs may even enjoy the added crunch!
How Much Kiwi Can Dogs Eat?
As with any new food, it’s wise to start slow when introducing kiwi to your pup. Offer just a small bite or two, to begin with, and keep a close eye on them afterward. Even if they seem to love the taste, resist the urge to let them chow down on a lot of kiwi all at once. Too much too soon is likely to result in digestive upset.
A few small bites of kiwi can be an occasional treat for a healthy adult dog. Use this handy portion guide based on your dog’s size:
| dog size | Kiwi Portion (teaspoon-sized pieces) |
|---|---|
| Extra-small dogs (2-20 lbs) | 1-2 |
| Small dogs (21-30 lbs) | Up to 4 |
| Medium dogs (31-50 lbs) | Up to 6 |
| Large dogs (51-90 lbs) | Up to 8 |
| Extra-large dogs (91+ lbs) | No more than 10 |
Remember, these are general guidelines, and some dogs may have lower tolerances based on their individual digestive sensitivity. Always watch for signs of tummy troubles, and stop feeding Kiwi if your dog seems unwell afterward. When in doubt, chat with your vet for personalized advice.
Other Fruits Dogs Can Safely Enjoy
While we’re on the subject of fruit, let’s explore some other tasty options you can share with your pup. Most of the following fruits are considered safe for dogs in moderation:
– Apples (without seeds/core)
– Bananas
– Berries like blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, cranberries and raspberries
– Cherries (without pits)
– Mango
– Oranges
– Peaches
– Pears
– Watermelon (without rind or seeds)
Just like with Kiwi, proper preparation and portion control is important. Cut fruits into bite-sized pieces, remove any pits/seeds/cores, and start with small servings to avoid upsetting Fido’s belly.
It’s also crucial to know which fruits are NOT safe for dogs. Grapes and raisins top the list – they can cause serious kidney problems even in small amounts. Other no-nos include avocado, citrus fruits like lemons & limes, and fruits with pits like plums and peaches (the pits can be choking hazards).
FAQ
1. Can dogs eat kiwi skin?
While kiwi skin isn’t toxic to dogs, it’s best to remove it before feeding the fruit to your furry friend. The skin can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause digestive issues like gas or bloating. Always peel the kiwi to minimize the risk of choking or digestive discomfort.
2. Is it safe for dogs to eat kiwi seeds?
Yes, dogs can safely eat the tiny black seeds found inside kiwifruit. Similar to the skin, kiwi seeds are not toxic to dogs. They are small enough that they shouldn’t pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages. Feel free to let your dog enjoy the seeds along with the peeled kiwi flesh.
Final Words
Unsure what other human foods are safe for your pup? We’ve got you covered! Explore our comprehensive collection of articles that delve into everything from fruits and veggies to the occasional treat!
