Avocados are a delectable and nutritious food for humans, but can dogs eat avocado? While tiny amounts of avocado are unlikely to damage your pooch, certain sections of this fruit carry persin, a toxin that has been linked to major health problems and even death in a variety of species, including dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Avocados?
Avocados are popular because they are high in nutrients and have been shown to provide health advantages in humans. These advantages have been generalized to dogs. Avocados include the following nutrients:
- vitamin A, B3, B6, C, and E are beneficial for the skin and coat, as well as for stronger bones, vision, and digestive health.
- Omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids contribute to the appearance and health of the coat. As they are good fat, they help in reducing cholesterol.
- Potassium, folate, antioxidants, etc. are all nutrients that may aid in the battle against a variety of illnesses, including certain forms of cancer.
Thus, the bottom line is that avocados are extremely nutritious, and when given in limited amounts, it will not hurt your dog. Indeed, avocados are frequently included as an ingredient in certain kinds of dog food. This is not to say, however, that the fruit is absolutely risk-free.
How About the Avocado Pit?
When avocados and dogs are together, there is a risk, but it is not with the peel or the flesh; it is with the pit! Avocado pits may not breakdown properly in a dog’s digestive system and may create a gastric or intestinal obstruction.
Once a dog consumes an avocado, if the pit is unable to be processed by the dog’s system, it becomes lodged halfway down the digestive track. If this occurs, the only cure is to open the stomach and surgically remove the object—just as you would with a rock, rubber ball, or any other indigestible object.
What About the Leaves, Bark, and Skin of the Avocado?
Avocados have just one known toxin, a substance called “persin.”
Persin is a naturally occurring antifungal chemical found in the avocado plant. The amounts of persin fluctuate according to avocado variety and other extrinsic variables. It is found in the avocado’s leaves, peel, seeds, and fruit.
Although dogs and cats appear to be immune to this toxin, some animals undoubtedly are not immune to the toxin.
Consumption of huge amounts of persin may cause stomach upset in dogs, however this would involve consuming a big number of leaves, bark, or avocado peels. Although dogs are foolish enough to eat anything that comes their way. So, it is better to keep them away from your pooch.
What About the Avocado Juice?
While there is no documented toxicity in dogs, we do know that sensitive canines can get pancreatitis after eating a little bit of avocado pulp.
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. This condition can be lethal in rare instances.
If your dog consumes avocado pulp, it’s always a good idea to monitor them for 24-48 hours and contact your veterinarian if they have vomiting, diarrhea, or gastrointestinal pain.
While avocados may include vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants, these advantages can be gained by giving other foods that are easier to digest (lower in fat) and do not pose the risk of causing pancreatitis.
What About Avocado Oil and Guacamole?
Avocado oil is safe for dogs to consume as it doesn’t contain persin. It contains vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids which helps in reducing inflammation. However, you should give little amounts of avocado oil as it contains fat and there is a risk of obesity. It is best to consult your vet before giving them avocado oil.
Guacamole is tasty dip but it contains other ingredients that are harmful to dogs like salt, onions, garlic, etc. So, it is better if you simply avoid giving guacamole to your dog.
Alternatives to Fruits and Vegetables That Are Safer Than Avocado
While avocados may provide certain health advantages, the same benefits may be gained from other low-fat meals.
If you want to enhance your dog’s diet with nutritious vegetable snacks, you have a choice of possibilities, including the following:
- Carrots
- Celery
- Green beans
- Peas
- Cabbage, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, etc. may also be offered to dogs, but in tiny amounts to avoid irritating their stomachs and causing gas.
Pet parents should use greater caution when it comes to fruits. The majority of fruits contain a significant concentration of natural sugar, which is why they should be fed only seldom and in moderation.
Some of the fruits that dogs can eat safely (in moderation) are:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Cantaloupe
- Oranges
- Peaches
- Pears
- Pineapple
- Strawberries
- Watermelon
Before serving any fruits to your four-legged family member, make sure to remove the skin and seeds.