Can Dogs Eat Pineapple?

You’re sitting with a yummy piece of pineapple in your hand, savoring the tangy, juicy taste. But then you catch your dog staring at you with those big puppy eyes and an adorable pleading expression. Which is why you're now wondering-can dos eat pineapple?

The good news is that dogs can eat pineapple! Dogs enjoy fruits just like we do, and pineapples are no exception. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when feeding your dog pineapple.

Nutritional Benefits of Pineapple for Dogs

Of course, you want to be sure that whatever you're giving your dog is healthy and full of nutrients. Everything your dog consumes should have nutritional value, even as a treat.

Pineapples contain a significant amount of fluids-about 82%. Plus, it contains bromelain - a digestive enzyme that helps with food breakdown while adding to the fruit's signature tangy taste. Other nutritional benefits present in pineapple include:

Vitamin C

Pineapples are high in Vitamin C, which benefits the immune system. To develop a defense against illnesses, your dog requires as much vitamin C as possible.

Fiber

Pineapples are laden with fiber - a nutrient necessary for maintaining a healthy gut. Even a tiny piece of pineapple fiber can help digestion and prevent constipation in your dog.

Antioxidants

Pineapples are rich in antioxidants, which bind and eliminate harmful toxins and by-products that can harm cells. Dogs may also benefit from these properties. Since pineapple is high in antioxidants, they can help prevent cell injury.

Other Vitamins and Minerals

Pineapples are also a great source of B vitamins, copper, and magnesium. So, not only will your dog love the taste of pineapple, but they’ll also reap the nutritional benefits.

What Kind of Pineapple Can I Feed my Dog?

There are different types of pineapple. There's Queen pineapple which has golden-yellow skin and sweet, juicy flesh. Then, there's the more popular and readily available Cayenne, with its greenish-yellow skin and tart flesh.

Even the pink-fleshed types, which include lycopene, are healthy for your dog to consume as long as you remove the skin and eyes.

No matter the type of pineapple you have, your dog can enjoy it as a tasty treat, especially when it's fresh. However, be sure to give it only a small piece (10% or less of your dog’s daily caloric intake).

Also, take special care with canned pineapples as they may contain more sugar than fresh ones. Dogs with diabetes should not eat canned pineapple at all to prevent their blood sugar level from spiking. You don't want to jeopardize your dog's health, therefore, be mindful of their sugar intake.

What Parts of the Pineapple Can my Dogs Eat?

The flesh of the pineapple is the fruit's most nutritious and flavorful part. Filled with lots of juice and nutrients, this part of the pineapple is safe for your dog to eat.

A pineapple's skin and hard interior core are not something you should be feeding your dog if you don't want your dog to deal with choking or blockage hazards.

How Much Pineapple Should I Give my Dog?

You can feed your dog small pieces of pineapple as a treat. A good rule of thumb is to offer your dog treats that are no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake while ensuring that any treat doesn’t replace their main diet.

Pineapple Treats for Your Dog

If you want to give your dog a special treat, here are some recipes that include pineapple:

• Pineapple and yogurt dog treats
• Frozen pineapple treats for dogs
• Doggie pineapple ice cream
• Pineapple smoothie

These are just a few ideas, but feel free to get creative and whip up more pineapple dog treats!

Conclusion

So, can dogs eat pineapple? The answer is yes! But remember, too much of anything is never good, and that includes pineapples. But it's still a healthy treat option for your dog. So when you first begin to introduce it to them, only give small amounts. Be sure to monitor their reaction, too, just in case. 

Also, remember to avoid the skin, hard inner core, and some types of canned pineapple, as they contain added sugar. Armed with this knowledge, you'll never wonder "can dogs eat pineapple" again!