Can Dogs Eat Pineapple?

Summer is here and with it all sorts of savory tropical fruits, among them pineapple. Like you, your pooch would like a taste of pineapple too, but can dogs eat pineapple?

Can My Dog Eat Pineapple? (Yes)

Fortunately, yes, your dog can eat pineapple. According to the American Kennel Club, fresh pineapple is rich in B-complex vitamins as well as vitamin C and Bromelain. It is also high in minerals and electrolytes, including potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Many of the nutrients in pineapple can help support your dog's immune system and are good for its digestive health.

Pineapple's antioxidants help repair your dog's damaged cells, while Vitamin C boosts your dog’s immune system and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Vitamin B6 is an important co-enzyme for brain and body functions and regulates fluid balance and hormones. It also helps in building proteins and supports neurotransmitters in your dog’s body.

The minerals in pineapples give your dog healthy skin and coat, strong ligaments, and tissues. Bromelain, an enzyme, possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties and also helps your dog with its skin issues.

Lastly, this tangy fruit can help support your dog’s overall health and hydration. Pineapples are 82% water, so they come packed with excellent hydration properties for your dog's additional moisture needs on a hot day.

How Much Pineapple Can I Give My Dog?

The experts at Cornucopia Pet Foods advise giving your dog pineapple, but in moderation. Remember that not more than 10% of your dog's calories should come from anything other than your dog's regular food.

While raw pineapple can be a healthy treat, give it only in small quantities. Be aware that canned and dried pineapple sometimes contain added sugars and provide extra calories your dog doesn’t need.

Too much pineapple can cause digestive issues, which include diarrhea and constipation. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, then even a small amount of pineapple might lead to a stomachache.

Pineapple is also packed with natural sugar. This can pose a risk to dogs with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes. The high acid content in pineapple could also erode your dog's tooth enamel and speed up tooth decay.

Otherwise, a little pineapple given in moderation can be a tasty snack for your dog. Give it no more than two or three small bites of pineapple a day.

Can Small Dogs Eat Pineapple?

Although small, small dogs are still dogs. So, yes, you can give your small dog small pineapple chunks. To be safe, small dogs should eat pineapple in small quantities as compared to large dogs that can tolerate larger amounts.

How to Serve Pineapple for Dogs

At Cornucopia Pet Foods, we advise you first check with your veterinarian before feeding your dog pineapple. The last thing we want is for some underlying condition to severely affect your pooch after it's eaten pineapple or, worse still, get diabetes.

Next, before serving your dog pineapple, ensure you have removed the spiny outer yellow skin and the tough central core of the pineapple for your dog. They can cause your dog intestinal blockages. Thereafter, simply follow the steps below:

• Peel and core the pineapple. Ensure you dispose of the peel and core in a place that's out of your dog's reach.
• Cut the pineapple into bite-size chunks for large dogs or dice it into small pieces for small dogs.
• If it's your dog's first taste of pineapple, first try it by giving it one bite, then wait an hour to see if it shows any signs of indigestion. STOP giving your dog pineapple if it reacts badly to pineapple.
• Feed your dog the bite-sized chunks or diced small pieces by hand as either a snack or a reward for good behavior.
• Give your dog not more than two or three small bites of pineapple a day.

There are loads of other dog-friendly pineapple recipes you can try with fresh pineapple to create versatile additions to your dog's menu. These include,

• Mixing it in yogurt with other dog-safe fruits like watermelon bites, blueberries, and banana slices produces a healthy fruit salad for your pooch to enjoy. Ensure the ratios follow the 10 percent rule for treats to avoid too many calories or sugar content.
• Frozen pineapple is a refreshing, hydrating treat on a hot summer day your dog will more than appreciate!
• Pureed pineapple frozen in ice-cube trays is another tasty treat when your dog needs some extra hydration.
• Doggie ice cream: Puree yogurt, and dog-safe fresh fruit together with some cooked, pureed sweet potatoes and freeze. When frozen, scoop it out and offer it as an ice cream snack.
• Smoothies: Add fresh pineapple and other fruits and veggies pureed with the pineapple juice or yogurt for a healthy smoothie your dog will simply enjoy lapping up this summer.