As a dog owner, you may have wondered if it is safe for your pup to eat kiwi. Kiwi can provide additional vitamins and minerals to the diet of your dog but there are a few things you must keep in mind. Keep reading below to learn more about the benefits of feeding kiwi to dogs and whether or not there are any risks involved with this fruit.
Can Dogs Eat Kiwi?
Yes, dogs can eat kiwi as long it is fed to them in moderation and the kiwi is prepared correctly. Kiwi should never be fed to dogs that are allergic or have a sensitive stomach. Kiwis can have pesticides and chemicals on the skin so it is important to wash them before feeding your dog this fruit. Keep reading to learn about the health benefits of feeding kiwi to dogs as well as the potential risks to be aware of.
Is Kiwi Safe For Dogs?
Yes, kiwi is considered to be safe for dogs. Kiwi is a nutrient-dense fruit which means it has many vitamins and minerals that are great for your dog. Kiwis also have lots of Vitamin C, potassium, fiber, copper, lutein and beta carotene. It is important to note that feeding your dog large amounts of kiwi isn't recommended because of the amount of natural sugar in kiwi. It is also recommended to observe your dog for any signs of allergies or upset stomach when feeding kiwi to them for the first time.
It is always recommended to speak with your veterinarian prior to feeding your dog kiwi or any other type of new food for the first time. Your vet will have a better understanding of the health of your dog.
Benefits of Feeding Kiwi To Dogs?
Feeding the occasional piece of kiwi to your dog can provide them with extra vitamins and nutrients that their commercial dog food may be lacking. Vitamin-rich kiwi is a great addition to your dog's diet. Kiwis are rich in vitamin C, calcium, potassium and fiber. They are also high in lutein (a nutrient that supports healthy eyes) as well as beta carotene (which acts as an antioxidant). This means the additional vitamins and minerals found in kiwis have the potential to be beneficial for the overall health and happiness of your dog. This is something we also talked about in our can dogs eat bananas article.
Risks Involved With Giving Dogs Kiwi
Although kiwis are a safe snack for dogs, the skin and seeds can be toxic to your pet if eaten in large amounts. Kiwis have seeds that humans should remove before giving to a dog because they contain toxins when eaten in high doses.
A dog's digestive system doesn't allow it to properly digest the skin on a kiwi. The tough skin is likely not toxic, but can pose choking risks for small dogs, and could potentially block the digestive tract if swallowed whole. Dogs also find that tough skin difficult to digest and this causes gastrointestinal issues more often than not.
One problem with feeding kiwi to your dog is that they could choke on it if the sphere of the kiwi has been cut too large. To help reduce choking while eating, cut small chunks and feed them to your pup slowly so they have time to chew.
Too much consumption of kiwi can result in stomach upset. Do not feed kiwis to your dog if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
- Painful or distended belly
- Lethargy
Like all food, moderation is key. A few pieces of kiwi should be safe for dogs to eat, too many can cause stomach issues.
How To Serve Kiwi To Dogs
It is important to thoroughly wash and scrub the outer surface of a kiwi before slicing it for your pet. Washing and then thoroughly scrubbing the skin can help reduce any potential risks associated with dogs eating kiwi. It is typically recommended to cut the kiwi into small pieces so they aren't a choking hazard for your dog.
Feeding kiwi to your dog is a special occasion treat, not part of their regular diet. It can be used as an ingredient for healthy stuffing in treats like Kongs that provides mental stimulation to keep them occupied and away from food which could lead to overeating.
Kiwi can be a healthy and cooling treat for dogs. It is even possible to make frozen fruit or veg popsicles for your dog on hot days.
Can Dogs Have Kiwi? Final Verdict
Yes, dogs can have kiwi but they should be given to your dog in moderation in additional with a healthy dog food. Kiwi can provide your dog with additional vitamins and minerals that their dog food might be missing.
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