Can dogs eat pineapple?
By Dr Rebecca MacMillan BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS
Yes, dogs can eat pineapple – but it should be given in moderation due to its high sugar content.
Some dogs enjoy the taste of fresh pineapple, while others find it a little too sharp! Whether your dog’s a fan or not, we’re here to explore everything you need to know about this tropical fruit. We’ll cover the potential health benefits of pineapple, how to offer it safely and what to avoid. Read on to find out more…
#Is pineapple good for dogs?
Whether it’s raw, grilled or canned, many people enjoy pineapple not just for its zingy taste but also for its potential health benefits. But is pineapple good for dogs?
Dogs get all the essential nutrition they need from a good-quality, complete diet – so there’s no need to add extras. That said, we know it can be hard to resist those big brown eyes.
Pineapple can make a nice low-fat treat for dogs, but it should always be offered in moderation. It’s high in sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and isn’t suitable for dogs with diabetes. Too much could also lead to tummy troubles.
##Nutritional benefits of pineapples for dogs
Here are some of the key nutrients found in pineapples:
###Vitamin C
In people (and guinea pigs), external sources of vitamin C are needed to support the immune system and maintain healthy skin and connective tissue. Dogs can produce their own vitamin C – but a little boost now and then won’t do any harm.
###Manganese
Manganese plays a key role in bone and tissue health, as well as boosting the immune system.
###Bromelain
Pineapples contain a group of enzymes known as bromelain, which may help reduce inflammation and support digestion. There’s some evidence from a study on mice suggesting these enzymes can have a positive effect on the gut microbiome – though more research is needed. A healthy gut microbiome is important for all animals, including dogs.
#Feeding pineapple to dogs
As with any treat, pineapple should be given in moderation. Fruit and vegetable snacks should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
It’s best to offer small amounts at a time to avoid unbalancing their diet, which could lead to weight gain or other nutritional issues. Too much pineapple may also cause stomach problems, due to its acidity as well as its high sugar and fibre content.
Pineapple is best served plain and chopped into bite-sized pieces. Dogs can also enjoy pineapple that’s been cooked and cooled – as long as it’s not coated in sauces or marinades.
Avoid giving your dog processed human foods containing pineapple, such as pineapple cake, yoghurt-coated pieces or pineapple pizza slices. Any potential benefits from the fruit are outweighed by the extra sugar, salt and calories.
##How much pineapple should I give my dog to stop them eating poop?
Some owners say that feeding their dog pineapple helps stop them from eating their own poop – though there’s no scientific evidence to support this. If you do want to try it, the feeding advice remains the same: pineapple should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily food intake.
#Can dogs have pineapple juice?
Dogs can have small amounts of pineapple juice, as long as it’s fresh and free from additives. Artificial sweeteners like xylitol – and added ingredients such as grape juice – are toxic to dogs and must be avoided. Pineapple juice is also quite acidic and may cause stomach upset, especially if consumed in large amounts.
##Can dogs have canned pineapple?
While canned pineapple isn’t toxic to dogs, it’s best avoided. Many canned fruits are packed in syrup, which is very high in sugar and offers no nutritional benefit.
##Can dogs eat pineapple skin?
No – you shouldn’t give your dog pineapple skin. It poses a choking hazard, is difficult to digest, and large pieces could cause a serious intestinal blockage.
##Can dogs eat pineapple core?
There’s a reason we don’t eat the core of a pineapple – it’s very tough and hard to digest. Large pieces of pineapple core could become lodged in your dog’s stomach or intestines, acting as a foreign body. It’s best not to take the risk and stick to offering small pieces of pineapple flesh instead.
#Is pineapple poisonous to dogs?
As we’ve covered in this article, pineapple is not toxic to dogs. They can enjoy small pieces of plain pineapple flesh as an occasional treat. However, if your dog is on a controlled diet or has a medical condition such as diabetes, it’s best to check with your vet before offering pineapple.
If your dog has eaten a large amount of pineapple – or has consumed indigestible parts like the skin or core – contact your vet for advice straight away.
#Conclusion – can dogs eat pineapples?
We hope we’ve answered all your pineapple-related questions. Let’s recap some of the key points:
- Pineapple isn’t toxic, and the flesh can be offered to dogs in moderation
- Avoid giving your pet the tough core or skin
- Pineapple may offer some health benefits, but it shouldn’t replace a good-quality, complete diet
- Never give your dog processed human snacks or drinks containing pineapple
Next time you’re enjoying some fresh pineapple, why not see if your dog fancies a taste too? Offered in small amounts, pineapple is perfectly safe for most healthy dogs. Whether you want to share is up to you!
