Many would agree that watermelon is a delicious and refreshing fruit, especially enjoyable on a warm summer's day. You may be wondering if dogs can have watermelon, too. What role does it play in canine nutrition? Finding healthy treats for dogs can seem challenging at times. This article explores watermelon for dogs and food safety while looking at some safe serving suggestions and alternate warm-weather refreshments.
Watermelon for dogs: sweet treat or sneaky danger?
As summer fruits for dogs go, watermelon is one of the best. They enjoy the crunchy texture, while the taste is not overpowering or sour. Due to the high moisture content (up to 90% in some parts of the world), watermelons provide great hydration for dogs, mainly when the weather heats up.
Watermelon is a good source of micronutrients such as:
- Vitamin C for immune support and wound healing
- Vitamin A for skin health and vision
- B vitamins for metabolism and nerve function
Understanding the limitations
While watermelon is a nice treat to offer in moderation, too much of it is bad news for dogs' digestive health. The high sugar content can lead to nausea, bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.
The sugar content is also why a dog with diabetes and watermelon don't mix. Sugary fruits will cause blood sugar spikes, which are to be avoided in those with diabetes. For the average dog, no more than 10% of their diet should consist of treats, which should be less than this for those with diabetes.
Watermelon could worsen diarrhea symptoms in dogs. While it may seem like a good idea to provide a watery fruit when your dog has loose stool, a bland diet is best.
Can dogs eat watermelon seeds?
If you've dropped some watermelon on the ground and your dog ate the seeds, there is a small risk that these could get stuck in their teeth or cause a gut obstruction. As the seeds are tiny, the risk is greater in small dogs that eat many seeds. Most dogs will be able to eat a few seeds without issue.
Watermelon seeds contain cyanide, but as this is in trace amounts, it is more of a theoretical risk than anything else.
Can dogs eat watermelon rind?
The rind of the watermelon poses the most risk as it is tough and difficult to digest. If not chewed well, it could lead to choking or a gut obstruction, which is a life-threatening emergency that requires urgent surgery. It is best to completely remove the rind before serving the fruit to your dog.
Safe watermelon serving tips for dogs
Is watermelon safe for dogs? When you can, stick to seedless watermelons. However, if not available near you, thoroughly remove all seeds before serving. Removing any rind or tough pieces of melon (usually found just above the rind) is also essential.
Cut up the melon into small bite-sized pieces to reduce any risk of choking.
If your dog has never eaten watermelon before, offering a small amount at first is a good idea. Monitor for any reactions over the next day or two. If well-tolerated, you can continue to provide watermelon in moderation.
Alternative summer treats for dogs
If your dog is not a fan of watermelon or you simply want to vary things for them, you can offer other refreshing delicacies. Some nice examples include frozen berries, dog-safe popsicles, or ice cubes.
Another great option is to use a lick mat. You can smear some wet dog food or peanut butter on top, then pop it in the freezer overnight. The following day, your dog has a yummy lick mat that should keep them occupied (and cool) for hours. A similar (but more challenging) option is a Kong, which can be stuffed with treats in layers and then frozen.
Of course, make sure any treat you share with Fido is dog-safe. Steer clear of yogurt or peanut butter containing xylitol, and don't offer any frozen fruit mixes containing grapes. Even in small amounts, xylitol can be dangerous, leading to low blood sugar and acute liver disease.
Dogs can enjoy watermelon as part of a well-balanced diet as long as it is offered in moderation. The wet, crunchy texture and refreshing taste perfectly combine for a warm summer's day. Be sure to chop the melon into small pieces, removing any rind or seeds. In addition to watermelon, you can offer other watery fruits and vegetables, including bell peppers, carrots, berries, and chopped apples.
FAQ
How much watermelon can dogs eat?
The right amount will depend on your dog and their individual needs. The average-sized dog can be given about 1–2 tablespoons on occasion. Smaller dogs should get slightly less, and larger dogs can be given somewhat more.
Can dogs eat other kinds of melon too?
Absolutely. Other melons, including cantaloupe and honeydew, are safe to feed in moderation. While dogs don't generally have a sweet tooth, some do appreciate more sugary flavors. As with watermelon, stick to smaller portions and keep an eye out for any reactions after feeding a new melon for the first time.
Does my dog need to see a vet if they've eaten watermelon rind?
While it is not something you should feed, most dogs will cope okay after eating rind if it is in small amounts. Smaller dogs are at greater risk of obstruction. Signs to watch out for over the next few days would include vomiting, lethargy, food refusal, abdominal pain, constipation, or bloating. If your dog does become unwell, then it should see its vet right away.
Is watermelon good for dogs?
A dog does not need to eat watermelon, which is not an essential part of their diet. However, it contains lots of moisture and some vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For this reason, as a "sometimes treat," it can be a nice snack to offer.
Is a watermelon allergy in dogs possible?
Theoretically, a dog can be allergic to any food. While reported in people, watermelon is not a common allergy in dogs. Dogs' most common food allergens include chicken, beef, soy, dairy, egg, and grains. If you suspect a watermelon allergy, stop feeding it and consult your vet.
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Dogs can enjoy watermelon just like humans, as long as you are cautious about feeding them and don't offer too much at once.
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Giving your dog too much watermelon could lead to a stomach upset, so you should keep portions small. While uncommon, some dogs may be allergic or sensitive to watermelon.
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It is not advised that they eat either the seeds or the rind of the watermelon, as these are choking hazards for dogs and can lead to stomach upset or even gut obstructions. Remove them before offering your dog any watermelon.
5 resources
- Journal of the American Veterinary Association. Food allergy in dogs and cats; current perspectives on etiology, diagnosis, and management.
- Clinical Nutrition Service, Tufts University. What's the best diet for my dog with diabetes?
- Pediatric Allergy, Immunology, and Pulmonology. Recurrent anaphylaxis with watermelon and pumpkin seeds in a boy tolerant to their pulps.
- Journal of Tropical Agriculture. Physico-chemical characteristics of watermelon in Malaysia.
- Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice. Xylitol toxicosis in dogs. An update.
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