Watermelon is well-known for its sweet flavor and nutrient-dense composition. On top of that, because it’s 92 percent water, it’s great for a hot summer day. Can dogs eat watermelon? Is it safe for them to eat? In this post, you’ll learn all you need to know about whether or not they’re allowed to eat.
Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?
Yes, dogs can eat watermelon, but there are a few things to keep in mind. An obstruction in the intestines can be caused by seeds, so be careful to remove them. Also, it’s best to remove the rind because it might induce digestive distress.
Health Advantages of Watermelon
Watermelon contains antioxidants, vitamin C, A, and B6, and potassium. Lycopene and dietary fiber abound in this fruit. As a matter of fact, the USDA’s Watermelon Promotions Board labels watermelon a superfood.
Even though watermelon is 92% water, its great nutritional content makes it one of the finest options for a nutritious snack for you and your canine companion.
Let’s take a closer look at watermelon’s health benefits:
In warmer temperatures, a high moisture percentage (94 percent) aids in hydration, which is a critical factor.
- Antioxidants: Our dogs’ bodies are subjected to environmental pressures, and antioxidants help to repair any harm that has been done to the cells. Think of them as the troops of oxidation, rescuing our dogs’ bodies from the degradation that occurs as they age.
- Fiber: Keeps food flowing through the intestines to prevent constipation, alleviate diarrhea, and prevent blockages.
- Lycopene: Watermelon and tomatoes are both rich in lycopene, which is responsible for their bright red color. It’s also good for preventing cancer and enhancing eyesight in dogs. It has also been shown to decrease cancer development, according to research.
- Potassium: Supports kidney function and heart function, maintains bone density, controls fluid levels, and aids muscular growth.
- Vitamin A: An adequate supply of vitamin A is necessary for healthy skin, hair, muscles, and nerves.
- Vitamin B6: In your dog’s body, Vitamin B6 is a vital coenzyme that helps maintain fluid balance and supports neurotransmitter function in addition to assisting in protein synthesis and hormone regulation in your pet.
- Vitamin C: It is a potent antioxidant that stimulates the immune system and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Can watermelon seeds be eaten by dogs?
Dogs love watermelon because it’s a great source of hydration and flavor, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. When serving this food, there are some measures you must take.
Mature watermelon seeds are bad for dogs. You don’t have to worry if your dog inadvertently swallows a few seeds; however, if you let them to gnaw away on a watermelon slice, they may consume too many seeds.
So, a dog’s digestive tract might become blocked by hard seeds that can’t be digested by the canine stomach.
It’s particularly true in the case of small dogs, which have far smaller intestines than their bigger counterparts. As a result, the ideal approach for your dog to enjoy this sweet fruit is to remove the seeds first and then cut into tiny portions.
Is watermelon rind safe for my dog to eat?
Your dog should not eat the rind of the watermelon. The rind is too rough for your dog to eat, but they can eat the light green area of the rind. As with the seeds, their digestive systems are unable to break it down adequately, causing an intestinal obstruction.
Preventing your dog from consuming the rind and seeds is ideal.
How Much Watermelon Is Safe for Dogs to Consume?
Your dog’s diet should not be dominated by watermelon. In the event that your dog or cat consumes an excessive amount of watermelon, they may have stomach cramps, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal issues.
Start with little portions of watermelon and watch how your pet reacts before introducing it to the rest of their diet. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog watermelon.
Only 10% of your dog’s calorie intake should come from snacks or treats, according to experts. Only 25 percent of a person’s diet should be made up of fruits and vegetables.
Overfeeding your canine on watermelon can lead to a vitamin imbalance because of the high quantities of vitamin A, B6, and C in this luscious fruit. This is a great incentive for good conduct in training sessions or for keeping your dog well-hydrated on hot days.
What about the watermelon’s sugars?
Sugar is present in watermelon, but the high fiber content prevents it from being absorbed into the circulation as quickly as it would be in other fruits. Dogs with diabetes shouldn’t be given any type of watermelon unless they’ve had a consultation with their veterinarian on serving quantities and what they require in their diet.
In what ways can I feed watermelon to my dog that aren’t boring?
The following are some ways where you can feed watermelon to your dog.
- Dehydrated: For a chewy treat, dehydrate the fruit (without the seeds and rind) The fruit’s moisturizing benefits will be lost, but your dog will still love it.
- Frozen: For a refreshing treat on a hot day, freeze pieces of fruit (after removing the seeds and rind).
- Ice cream: Watermelon and other dog-safe fruits such as blueberries or bananas, together with yogurt or peanut butter may be pureed and frozen in ice cube trays for an interesting new treat for your dog or consider making a smoothie out of it!
- Pureed: Remove the seeds and skin from the fruit and puree it until it is smooth. Freeze the cubes and serve them as a snack.
- Small chunks: Serve your dog fresh watermelon pieces after removing the seeds and rind from the fruit and cutting the fruit into small pieces.