Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Can dogs eat kiwi?” As devoted pet owners, we always strive to provide the best care for our furry friends. And that includes being cautious about what they eat.
Kiwi, with its vibrant green flesh and tangy flavor, is tempting, but before you share this exotic fruit with your dog, you need to know what are the edible parts and if and when to introduce it to your pup.
Can Dogs Eat Kiwi
Yes, kiwi can be a good snack if your dog has no allergies or sensitivities to the fruit.
Kiwifruit is a nutrient-dense fruit, boasting a rich supply of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium—essential in your dog’s diet.
Kiwi is not toxic for dogs. It can be a safe occasional treat in moderation. Yet, if your canine companion is predisposed to a delicate stomach or prone to digestive sensitivities, it might be wise to steer clear of introducing kiwi into their diet.
The elevated sugar content could pose a concern for dogs with diabetes, potentially triggering spikes in blood sugar levels.
As with any novel addition to your dog’s dietary repertoire, talking to your veterinarian is highly recommended before incorporating kiwi. Their expertise can provide tailored guidance concerning which foods align with the safety and well-being of your beloved four-legged friend, mainly if they contend with any health conditions.
Can Dogs Eat Kiwi: Table of Contents
Health Benefits for Dogs
Kiwi contains essential vitamins C, K, and E and dietary fiber.
These nutrients contribute to a healthy immune system, proper blood clotting, and digestion. However, while these nutrients are valuable, dogs have specific dietary requirements that might not align perfectly with the components of kiwi.
Potential Risks
Kiwi contains natural sugars and dietary fiber, which can be problematic for dogs if consumed excessively. The high sugar content might lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea and stomach discomfort..
Allergies and Sensitivities
Like humans, dogs can have allergies and sensitivities to certain foods, and kiwi is no exception. Some dogs might be allergic to kiwi, leading to symptoms such as itching, hives, or even more severe reactions.
If you introduce kiwis into your dog’s diet, start with a small amount and closely monitor their response.
How to Safely Introduce Kiwi to Your Dog
If you’re considering offering a small piece of kiwi to your furry friend, follow these steps to ensure their safety and well-being:
Step 1: Consult Your Veterinarian
Before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog’s specific dietary needs, health history, and potential allergies.
Step 2: Prepare Kiwi Properly
If your veterinarian gives the green light, prepare the kiwi by peeling off the skin and cutting it into small bites.
Step 3: Offer a Small Amount
Start by offering a small, bite-sized piece of kiwi to your dog. Watch their reaction closely for any signs of discomfort or allergic reactions.
Step 4: Monitor for Reactions
After your dog has consumed the kiwi, observe them for the next 24 hours for any adverse reactions. Look out for symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive scratching, or changes in behavior.
Nutritional Value of Kiwi
| Nutrient | Units/100 g | Green Kiwifruit | Gold Kiwifruit |
| Proximates | |||
| Water | g | 83.1 | 82.4 |
| Energy | kcal | 61 | 63 |
| Energy | kJ | 255 | 262 |
| Protein | g | 1.14 | 1.02 |
| Total lipid (fat) | g | 0.52 | 0.28 |
| Ash | g | 0.61 | 0.47 |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | g | 14.7 | 15.8 |
| Fiber, total dietary | g | 3 | 1.4 |
| Sugars, total | g | 9 | 12.3 |
| Minerals | |||
| Calcium, Ca | mg | 34 | 17 |
| Iron, Fe | mg | 0.31 | 0.21 |
| Magnesium, Mg | mg | 17 | 12 |
| Phosphorus, P | mg | 34 | 25 |
| Potassium, K | mg | 312 | 315 |
| Sodium, Na | mg | 3 | 3 |
| Zinc, Zn | mg | 0.14 | 0.08 |
| Copper, Cu | mg | 0.13 | 0.103 |
| Manganese, Mn | mg | 0.098 | 0.05 |
| Selenium, Se | µg | 0.2 | 0.44 |
| Vitamins | |||
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | mg | 92.7 | 161.3 |
| Vitamin B1-Thiamin | mg | 0.027 | < 0.01 |
| Vitamin B2-Riboflavin | mg | 0.025 | 0.074 |
| Vitamin B3-Niacin | mg | 0.341 | 0.231 |
| Vitamin B5-Pantothenic acid | mg | 0.183 | 0.12 |
| Vitamin B6-Pyridoxine | mg | 0.063 | 0.079 |
| Vitamin B9-Folate | µg, DFE | 25 | 31 |
| Choline | mg | 7.8 | 1.9 |
| Vitamin B-12 | µg | 0 | 0.08 |
| Vitamin A, RAE | µg _RAE | 4 | 1 |
| Vitamin A | IU | 87 | 23 |
| Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) | mg | 1.46 | 1.51 |
| Vitamin K | µg | 40.3 | 6.1 |
Can dogs eat kiwi juice?
No, either freshly juiced or commercial. Juice is packed with sugar and can do more harm than good, especially to dogs with diabetes or other health problems.
Can Dogs Eat Kiwi Skin
No. Always peel the kiwi before feeding it to your dog. The skin itself isn’t likely to pose a choking hazard (unless the fruit is swallowed whole); it’s considered roughage and might lead to gas or other digestive discomfort for your dog.
As you peel the kiwi, cut it into small bites for your furry friend. Only allow your dog to eat a whole kiwi by slicing it into smaller pieces. Swallowing an entire kiwi could cause your dog to choke or even result in an intestinal blockage. Remember, safety comes first!
Can dogs eat kiwi seeds?
Yes. These tiny black seeds within the kiwi are small enough that they shouldn’t pose any risk of choking or causing blockages in the intestines. Your dog can safely enjoy the kiwi seeds along with the rest of the peeled fruit.
Recipe: Kiwi Cool Bites
Ingredients:
1 ripe kiwi
1/4 cup plain yogurt (make sure it doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners)
Instructions:
Peel the kiwi and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. Make sure to remove the seeds.
In a bowl, mix the plain yogurt. Yogurt is a great source of probiotics and can be beneficial for your dog’s digestive health.
Gently dip kiwi pieces into the yogurt mixture until they are well-coated.
Spoon the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds. This will help you create nicely shaped treats.
Place the trays or molds in the freezer and let them freeze until solid, which usually takes a few hours.
Once frozen, pop the treats out of the molds and store them in an airtight container or resealable bag in the freezer.
Remember that these treats should be given in moderation, and you should always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your dog’s diet. Additionally, be mindful of any allergies or sensitivities your dog might have to certain ingredients. Enjoy making these tasty and refreshing treats for your furry friend!
Vet Q&A
Can I feed my dog Kiwi every day?
It’s best to offer kiwi as an occasional treat, not a daily staple.
Is there a risk of allergies from Kiwi?
Dogs can develop allergies to any food, including kiwi. Watch for signs of allergies if you introduce it.
Can I give my dog the Kiwi skin?
No. Removing the skin is safer as it might be difficult for dogs to digest.
Are there other fruits dogs can eat?
Yes, some dog-friendly fruits include apples, blueberries, and watermelon.
What should I do if my dog eats too much kiwi?
If your dog shows discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea after consuming kiwi, consult your vet immediately.
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