Summers are here and the peak summers are not fun. Neither for us nor our pets. But just like we have ways to make ourselves feel better with fruits that are hydrating, we can have the same ways for our pets also. Fruits can be healthy and a welcome change in place of treats.
Here is a list of some summer safe fruits that you can feed your pets:
1. Watermelon (No seeds, no rind)
Benefits: Hydration, vitamin A, B6, and C
Serving Tip: Remove seeds and rind. Serve in small cubes or frozen chunks for a cool treat.
2. Apples (No seeds or core)
Benefits: Fiber, vitamin C
Serving Tip: Peel and cut into bite-sized pieces. Freeze for a crunchy summer snack.
3. Bananas
Benefits: Potassium, fiber, natural sugars for energy
Serving Tip: Use in moderation due to sugar content. Mash it into their food or serve frozen slices.
4. Blueberries
Benefits: Antioxidants, low in calories
Serving Tip: Serve fresh or freeze them for tiny, cooling treats. Great for training rewards too!
5. Cucumbers (Technically a fruit!)
Benefits: Hydrating, low in calories, refreshing crunch
Serving Tip: Serve thin slices or sticks, especially good for overweight dogs.
6. Strawberries
Benefits: Vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants
Serving Tip: Wash thoroughly, remove the stem, and cut into halves or quarters.
7. Mango (No pit or skin)
Benefits: Vitamin A, B6, C, and E
Serving Tip: Remove the pit and peel. Serve in small pieces. High sugar, so serve sparingly.
8. Pineapple (No core or skin)
Benefits: Vitamin C, enzymes that aid digestion
Serving Tip: Small, fresh chunks only. Avoid canned pineapple due to added sugars.
Fruits to Avoid
Not all fruits are dog-friendly. Avoid these at all costs:
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Grapes & Raisins – Can cause kidney failure.
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Cherries – Pits contain cyanide and are choking hazards.
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Avocados – Contain persin, which is toxic to dogs.
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Citrus Fruits (Lemons, Limes) – Too acidic and can upset the stomach.
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Plums & Peaches (with pits) – Choking hazard and toxic if the pit is ingested.
How to Serve Fruits Safely
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Wash thoroughly to remove pesticides or residues.
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Remove seeds, pits, rinds, and cores.
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Serve in moderation – Treat fruits as supplements, not replacements for regular meals.
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Introduce new fruits slowly to check for allergies or stomach upset.
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Serve chilled or frozen for an extra-cooling boost in summer.
Fun Summer Ideas with Fruits
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Frozen Fruit Cubes: Blend a dog-safe fruit with a little water or plain yogurt. Pour into ice trays and freeze.
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Fruit-Infused Water: Add slices of apple, cucumber, or berries to your dog’s water bowl for a fun twist.
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DIY Pup-sicles: Mix banana, peanut butter, and yogurt. Freeze in silicone molds for a delicious doggy popsicle.
Summer fruits are a fantastic way to keep your dog happy, hydrated, and healthy. But as with everything, moderation and safety are key. With the right choices and a little creativity, fruit can become your pup’s favorite summer indulgence!
