As the weather gets warmer and your dog starts to pant, you may be looking for a refreshing treat that will cool you both down. If you’re snacking on a juicy watermelon, your dog might be begging for a piece.
It’s okay to give them one. Watermelon is safe for dogs to eat, as long as they only indulge in the fleshy part of the fruit in moderate amounts. In fact, it can actually be a healthy snack for your pup if you prepare it properly.
Why Do Dogs Love Watermelon?
Your pooch is probably eager to gobble watermelon for the same reasons you are. It’s sweet, juicy, and refreshing, especially during the summer. While dogs don’t always gravitate towards eating things that are good for them, in this case, watermelon is actually a healthy choice.
Thanks to its high moisture, fiber content, and density of nutrients, watermelon is considered a superfood—for both humans and dogs. It’s packed with vitamins A, B6, and C, along with potassium, and it has almost no fat or cholesterol and is composed of 92% water. And while it contains a decent amount of sugar, it’s not enough to cause concern in small doses.
All of this means that watermelon makes a delicious and nutritious snack for your dog and can even help when they’re dehydrated. However, it’s important to take a few precautions when feeding this fruit to your furry friend.
How Much Watermelon Should I Serve My Dog?
As with all treats for your pet, watermelon is a snack that should be fed to your dog in moderation. Dog treats should only make up 10% of your dog’s daily food consumption, with the rest coming from a balanced diet of dog food.
You should also be careful not to share any of the rind or the seeds of the watermelon when you’re snacking with your pup. The rind is too tough for them to digest, which could cause intestinal discomfort. The seeds are not mature enough for dogs to digest them either. If a dog consumes the rind or seeds, they could experience an intestinal blockage that may require surgery in some circumstances.
Here are some ideas and tips for allowing your dog to enjoy watermelon safely:
- Remove all seeds from the watermelon
- Cut the flesh into small pieces or use a melon baller, avoiding the rind
- After removing the seeds and rind, freeze the chunks of watermelon for a frozen treat (for both of you!)
- Feed your dog only fresh watermelon, not any artificially flavored watermelon products
As long as you follow these guidelines, it’s safe, healthy, and enjoyable to share some watermelon with your panting pup!
Conclusion
Watermelon is safe for dogs to enjoy in moderation. The seeds and rinds will need to be removed, but if you take the necessary precautions, you’re welcome to share some of this juicy melon with your dog next time you’re on a picnic or looking for a refreshing snack.
Featured Image Credit: Credit: stevepb, Pixabay
