Food

Can Dogs Eat Bananas?

Written by: BARK

April 25, 2023

Can dogs eat bananas? The answer is yes! Bananas can be a healthy and tasty dog treat with many health benefits for your canine companion, but there are a few things to keep in mind when using bananas as one of your dog food ingredients or add-ons. We’ll discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of feeding your pup bananas and provide some tips on safely including them in your dog’s diet. So if you’ve been wondering what foods can dogs not eat, rest assured bananas are a safe option. Read on for more. 

The Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Bananas

Feeding your dog bananas can provide a number of benefits for their overall health and well-being because they are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Packed with vitamin B6, Vitamin C, manganese, potassium, biotin, magnesium, and copper, these nutrients are very beneficial for a dog’s health. Bananas also contain natural sugars that provide a great source of energy for your pup.

In addition to the nutritional benefits, bananas can also help with digestive issues in dogs. The dietary fiber in bananas can help relieve constipation and keep your pup’s stomach healthy. That said, it’s important to make sure you don’t give them too much. The recommended amount of banana for a pup is only one-eighth to one-quarter of a banana per day. Too many bananas could cause gastrointestinal problems.

dog eating a banana

The Risks of Feeding Your Dog Bananas

Bananas are a healthy and delicious occasional treat for dogs, but they can also pose some risks if not fed properly. Too much of anything, even something as seemingly harmless as a banana, can be dangerous for your pup. This is why it’s important to be mindful of how much banana you’re feeding your dog and the form in which you’re providing it.

One of the main risks when it comes to feeding your dog bananas is the risk of choking. Small pieces of banana can get stuck in your dog’s throat, so it’s important to cut them into small, bite-sized banana slices or make mashed banana treats. Another important safety tip is to avoid giving your dog banana peels. Dogs cannot digest banana peels, so they should always be removed before feeding the banana to your pup.

It’s also important to be aware of how much banana you’re feeding your dog. Bananas contain high levels of natural sugar, which can cause an upset stomach and dog digestive issues if too much is eaten. Generally, most dogs should not eat more than one banana per day. It’s also important to be mindful of the type of banana you’re feeding your pup. Overripe bananas can contain higher sugar levels and may cause stomach issues if eaten in large quantities.

dog with a bunch of bananas on its head

How to Feed Your Dog Bananas Safely

Bananas are a great, healthy treat for your dog, but as a pet owner, you must make sure you’re feeding them correctly to keep them safe.

Can Dogs Eat Banana Peels?

It’s not recommended that you feed your dog banana peels because they can be hard to digest and may lead to an upset stomach. If your dog does consume a small amount of banana peel, watch for any signs of digestive distress.

How Much Banana Can a Dog Eat?

The serving size of bananas for your pet can vary based on their weight and size. As a general guideline, many dogs can consume one to two banana pieces per day without any safety concerns. Be sure to cut the bananas into slices or small pieces so they are easier to chew and digest.

When feeding your dog bananas, make sure the banana is ripe and free of pesticides or other contaminants. Also, don’t give your dog too much at once, as it may cause an upset stomach. Finally, if you notice any adverse reactions after your dog has eaten a banana, such as vomiting or diarrhea, stop feeding them and consult your veterinarian.

What Types of Bananas are Best for Your Dog?

When it comes to feeding your dog bananas, the type of banana matters. While some dogs may be able to tolerate a whole, ripe banana, others may find it too difficult to digest. For this reason, it is best to stick with mashed or pureed bananas. It is also important to remove the banana peel before feeding it to your pup, as dogs can’t eat banana peels. The peels contain tough fibers that can cause intestinal blockages or other digestive problems.

When feeding your pup bananas, it is important to remember that moderation is key. A few slices of banana are typically more than enough to satisfy a dog’s sweet tooth, but too much of anything can be bad for them. So how much banana can a dog eat? It is recommended only to feed your dog no more than one small banana per day. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of feeding your pup a healthy snack without overloading them with sugar or calories.

Give Your Pup The Essential Nutrients They Need with BARK

It can be hard to say no to a pair of puppy eyes begging for food, but we know you have your dog’s best interest at heart, and so do we. High quality pet food ingredients are essential to maintaining your furry friend’s health and keeping their tail wagging. That’s why we’ve cooked up some adult and puppy food formulas that are tailored to all unique dog breeds. Whether you have a Shih Tzu or Great Dane, a young pup, or an adult dog, BARK Food has options for everyone! 

dog eating some peanut butter and banana slices

Sources

  1. Staff, Akc. “Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can or Can’t Eat.” American Kennel Club, 24 Mar. 2022, www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/
  2. Guthrie, Lynn. “Can Dogs Eat Bananas?” Pumpkin®, 15 Oct. 2022, www.pumpkin.care/blog/can-dogs-eat-bananas
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Written by: BARK

April 25, 2023

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