Content
- Can you give a banana to a dog?
- Can dogs eat bananas? What are the benefits?
- Banana for dogs: contraindications
- Banana for dog: recommended amount
- Can a dog eat banana peel?
THE banana, also known as pacoba, is one of the most popular fruits in the world. Not only humans who eat it but some dogs love it too! But, is that can the dog eat bananas? Is it healthy food for them? Should consumption be moderate?
There are certain human foods that dogs can eat, is banana among them? In this article by PeritoAnimal we are going to talk about this delicious fruit and its consumption by dogs, keep reading!
Can you give a banana to a dog?
You should know that there are many fruits and vegetables recommended for dogs and, in fact, they love it! although the dog has nutritional needs specific, in which the contribution of fats and protein[1] should be prioritized, they can also benefit from moderate consumption of fruits and vegetables, as they provide vitamins and minerals necessary for your body.
It is important to note that not all puppies like the same fruits and that, in addition, some fruits and vegetables are toxic to puppies. In fact, even the fruits recommended for dogs can have a negative effect on your dog if he has allergy or intolerance. Therefore, it is advisable to add them to the diet gradually, starting with small portions to check the dog's body acceptance.
The most recommended is to chop it into pieces, remove the seeds and, in some cases, also peel it. Fruit should never replace or be the basis of your dog's diet, but a complement that can be offered as a prize, for example.
In the end, can dog eat bananas? The answer is yes! Continue reading the article and see the benefits, contraindications and dosages of bananas for dogs.
Can dogs eat bananas? What are the benefits?
Banana is a very tasty fruit that dogs generally enjoy a lot, but in addition, you should know that it has many benefits for your dog. Some of them are:
- Potassium: helps to strengthen bones and allows better absorption of calcium. It also strengthens blood vessels and tones muscles;
- Vitamin B6: has anti-inflammatory function and helps to prevent cardiovascular disease. It also regulates the functioning of red blood cells;
- Fiber: contributes to improving intestinal transit;
- Vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system and keeps blood pressure levels stable;
- Contains natural probiotics: Help to regulate the intestinal flora, which results in a healthy digestive system. That's why they are recommended when your dog has diarrhea. Find out more about probiotics for dogs and their positive effects on their bodies.
Banana is also a food that contains natural sugars, which provide energy without involving processed additives or artificial colors, present in many sweet foods for human consumption. In other words, it is an excellent friend in the diet of both humans and pets.
Banana for dogs: contraindications
As with other foods, the benefits of bananas can be overshadowed if you consume them in excess. Some of the consequences of this are:
- Constipation: If your dog's digestive system works properly, eating too much bananas will likely cause constipation.
- Diarrhea: although it is a fruit that most dogs like, it is possible that yours does not feel well and has diarrhea after consumption. Hence the importance of gradual and controlled consumption.
- Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to bananas. Because of this, you must be very careful when offering the first few times, carefully observing the reaction and possible changes in the body.
- hyperactivity: As we've already explained, bananas contain sugars that bring energy, but if consumed in excess, your result will be a hyperactive dog.
Banana for dog: recommended amount
Once you have verified that your dog tolerates banana consumption, you can begin to adapt the portions to suit your dog's size. For dogs of small size, cut slices of approximately one centimeter and offer only two; for çmedium sized dogs, half a banana; already the large breeds they can consume between half a banana and a whole one.
Of course, in all these cases you should always cut the banana into small slices, no more than one centimeter, to avoid suffocation. You can also crush it, make a mush and put it in a dog Kong. Don't forget the banana is a food you should offer occasionally and never use it to replace the food or feed you give your dog.
Can a dog eat banana peel?
Never let your dog consume the banana peel. It is very hard and difficult to chew, making it extremely easy to choke. In addition, the potassium levels in the banana peel are high, which represents an excess of fiber for your dog's body.
There have been cases of seizures in dogs after ingesting banana peel. This is because, for commercial purposes, varnishes and other chemicals are added to the outside of the fruit to make it more attractive and shiny. This is another reason not to allow your dog to eat banana peels at all.
If you discover that your dog has ingested one of these husks, it is likely that he will only vomit for hours to come. However, you must remain alert for any other reaction and, in case another sign appears, go to the vet urgently.
