The short answer is yes, dogs can eat pineapple. Pineapple is just one of the many “human foods” that dogs can eat. Raw pineapple is packed with nutrients that benefit both you and your canine companion.
Frozen pieces of pineapple are also a delicious way to beat the heat. However, there are a few things to consider before feeding your dog pineapple.
What to Consider Before Feeding Your Dog Pineapple
Ripe, raw pineapple contains a whole lot of vitamin C, along with thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, and folate. Pineapple is also full of minerals, including manganese, copper, potassium, magnesium, iron, and small amounts of calcium, phosphorus, and zinc.
This makes it a nutrient-dense snack for humans and dogs alike, and these nutrients play an important role in your dog’s immune system and digestive health.
All of these vitamins and minerals make pineapple sound like a wonderful choice for dogs. But there are a few other things to consider before feeding pineapple to your canines. Pineapple is high in fiber and contains a significant amount of natural sugar.
This means that while pineapple is a perfectly healthy treat in small quantities, it can have adverse effects on your dog’s digestive system if fed in large amounts.
Keep an eye on your dog when you first feed them pineapple. If your pup gets diarrhea or shows signs of an upset stomach, then pineapple might not be the fruit snack for them.
The tough, central core of the pineapple has the potential to cause obstructions, as does the spiny skin. So, stick your dog the feeding the flesh of the pineapple for their safety.
Is Pineapple Safe for Dogs?
As nutritious as pineapple can be for dogs, it also has some drawbacks. While the high fiber content can be beneficial in small quantities, too much of it can cause digestive issues, including diarrhea and constipation. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, even a small amount of pineapple might lead to tummy trouble.
Pineapple is also packed with natural sugar, which could pose a risk to dogs with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes, The Labrador Site explained. And the high acid content in pineapple could wear down a dog’s tooth enamel and speed up tooth decay.
You should avoid feeding both the spiny outer skin and the tough central core or the pineapple to your dog.
These can cause intestinal blockages, so call your veterinarian if your pup raids the garbage and devours either of these parts of the pineapple. They can advise you on whether you should bring your dog in for an exam or take a wait-and-see approach.
Is Pineapple Good for Dogs?
Pineapples contain multiple vitamins and minerals that help support your dog’s immune system and digestive system.
Your dog could also benefit from the antioxidants found in pineapple such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and bromelain. And just like watermelons, pineapples contain a high percentage of water, which promotes hydration.
Although your dog won’t experience major benefits from small pineapple pieces as occasional treats, they are definitely a healthy snack choice. Feeding dog-safe fruits to your pup is a much more nutritious option than table scraps which may be harmful to pets.
Check out some of the vitamins and minerals found in pineapples:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin K
- Thiamin
- Riboflavin
- Niacin
- Folate
- Manganese
- Copper
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Zinc
How Much Pineapple Can Dogs Have?
Think of pineapple as you would any treat. It is something to be given on special occasions, not a regular or frequent part of your dog’s diet. A few chunks of raw pineapple is enough for most dogs. Before feeding them, be sure they are peeled and sliced into small, bite-sized portions.
Some dogs can have pineapple allergies, and eating too much can cause your dog to have diarrhea or other symptoms of stomach upset. Start with two to three small pieces and monitor your dog. Keep in mind, the smaller the dog, the smaller their digestive system, and so the less fruit you should feed them.
How to Prepare Pineapple for Your Dog
How can dogs eat pineapple? Follow these guidelines to safely feed pineapple to your pooch:
- Check with your veterinarian before feeding in case there are any underlying conditions that pineapple would not work well with including diabetes.
- Peel and core the pineapple, discarding 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 you’re feeding them pineapple for the first time, give your dog one bite and wait an hour to see if they show any signs of digestive issues. Stop giving them pineapple if it doesn’t appear to agree with them. Remember that no more than ten percent of your dog’s calories should come from anything other than their regular dog food.
- Give your dog no more than two or three small bites of pineapple a day.
A little bit of pineapple in moderation can be a yummy snack your dog could love. Just be careful not to overdo it, and don’t let your dog’s enthusiasm for this sweet treat override what’s best for their overall health.
