Can my dog eat fruit?

Like humans, dogs are omnivores, which means they can eat both meat and fruit (as well as some vegetables). In fact, a little fruit can make a nice healthy treat for your dog.

Some fruits are better for them than others. Plus it’s important to know that there are even some which – although safe for humans – can be dangerous to dogs.

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Which fruits can my dog eat?

Here are some of the most popular fruits and their benefits for dogs, as well as some to avoid:

• Apples
• Blueberries
• Cucumber
• Oranges
• Pears
• Pineapple
• Strawberries
• Tomatoes
• Watermelon

Do not give dogs grapes or raisins as they are highly toxic and can make your pet severely sick.

Can dogs eat apples?

Apples are a great fruit to give your dog. They’re a source of vitamin A, vitamin C and fibre. They’re also low in protein and fat, which makes them a good snack for less active or older dogs. Apples will also help to keep your dog’s breath fresher and their teeth clean. You can even try frozen apple slices in hot weather.

You should remove the pips and core of the apple before your dog eats any. The pips do contain a very small amount of cyanide which is released when chewed. And while a couple of pips are unlikely to cause a problem, it’s best to make sure they are all removed.

Can dogs eat blueberries?

Blueberries are another fruit that is good for your dog. Popular as a superfood, these berries are full of fibre, phytochemicals and antioxidants that help prevent cell damage in dogs and humans.

Can dogs eat cucumber?

Yes, dogs can eat refreshing cucumber. They’re 96% water, so nice and hydrating on a hot day. Plus they’re full of vitamins and minerals. As with all complementary foods, just don’t give them too much.

Also, yes: cucumbers are a fruit!

Can dogs eat grapes?

Grapes (and raisins) must be avoided completely. They’re highly toxic, and the reaction they cause can lead to sudden severe kidney damage. If your dog has managed to eat any grapes, watch out for these symptoms and contact your vet for advice:

• Vomiting and/or diarrhoea within the first couple of hours after eating the grapes/raisins
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness or tiredness
• Seizures

If you notice any of these symptoms or have any worries, contact your vet for advice immediately.

Don’t know where your closest vet is? Find a vet near you here.

Can dogs eat oranges?

Dogs can safely eat oranges in moderation, as long as they’ve been peeled. The peel can give them an upset stomach. Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, fibre and potassium, which are all great for your dog’s health.

Can dogs eat pears?

Pears are a healthy snack for dogs, providing a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, fibre and copper. It’s been suggested that pears can even help reduce the risk of suffering a stroke. When giving your dog pear as a snack, make sure you remove the seeds – as with apples, these can also contain a very small amount of cyanide.

Can dogs eat pineapple?

Pineapple makes a great treat for dogs and is perfectly safe. Containing plenty of vitamins, minerals and fibre, it also contains an enzyme called bromelain which helps dogs to absorb proteins. When giving your dog pineapple, always ensure it’s peeled and cored.

Can dogs eat strawberries?

Strawberries are a nice healthy treat for your dog. They contain plenty of fibre, as well as vitamin C, manganese and potassium, which all help to support your dog’s immune system. They also contain an enzyme that helps with teeth whitening!

Can dogs eat tomatoes?

Yes and no. Dogs should only be given red tomatoes, not green or unripe ones, which can contain a higher level of toxins. As with all complementary foods, only give them a little tomato if they’re keen on it.

Can dogs eat watermelon?

Yes, watermelons are a lovely refreshing treat for your dog. But be sure to feed them the red flesh only, removing the seeds.

Fruit can be an excellent addition to your dog’s diet, due to the vitamins, minerals and fibre it contains. But it should only make up a small proportion of your dog’s daily food.

For more useful information about your dog’s health, check out:

• How to choose the right dog food
• Diet and nutrition guides for dogs
• List of substances which are toxic to dogs