6 Benefits of Dragon Fruit For Dogs

  It is summertime when fruits are ubiquitous. And if you planning to add fruits to your dog's diet, it is the right time for it. There are so many new and exotic fruits to choose from. For instance, there's the dragon fruit!

Dragon fruit is a spectacular, exotic, tropical treat, but can dogs eat dragon fruit?

It's good to know you're trying new things and want to introduce your pup to different cuisines.

A lot of fruits have plenty of benefits for our dogs.

But these kinds of exotic, unusual fruits are pretty hard to determine whether dogs are safe to consume since giving dragon fruits to dogs is not exactly common.

This blog will discuss everything you need to know about feeding dragon fruits to dogs.

Below, we'll tackle the benefits and potential risks (if there are any) of dragon fruits to dogs.

Without further ado, let's get right into it!

Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit?

Happy to report to you, dragon fruit lovers that, yes, dogs can enjoy dragon fruits in moderation.

But which variant of this fruit can dogs eat?

Generally, white, red, pink, purple, and yellow dragon fruits are safe for dog consumption.

They are sweet, juicy, and low-calorie treats for dogs. Your Fido can enjoy this exotic fruit as long as it’s given properly and moderately.

However, if you're introducing something new to your pet, like a new fruit, vitamins, or supplements, it's best to consult with your vet first.

Your vet knows what's best for your pup, especially the food or medication that should be given to him.

Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit Skin?

No, do not feed your dog dragon fruit skin.

Dogs will have a difficult time chewing and digesting this spiky and leathery skin.

If you plan to give your pup dragon fruit as an occasional treat, remember to remove the skin before giving him the fruit's flesh.

Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit Seeds?

Yes, dogs can eat dragon fruit seeds.

Dragon fruit seeds are small and soft and will not cause any blockage on your dog's stomach.

The best way to give your pup dragon fruit is also the easiest way, just fresh and natural.

Just peel the pink, leathery skin before giving it to them. This skin is not edible and can cause a digestive upset later on.

If you plan to feed your pup dragon fruit, follow the steps below.

Peel the bright pink skin off before serving it to your pup.

Cut the dragon fruit into bite-sized pieces.

See how your dog will react before giving them more.

Serve the dragon fruit in small amounts to prevent them from choking.

Monitor your pup's reaction and bowel movements to determine if the fruit agrees with your dog.

Health Benefits of Dragon Fruits on Dogs

Dragon fruit is safe for moderate consumption.

This bizarre-looking fruit actually has various benefits for our dog's health.

This fruit can be a great snack for dogs as it contains antioxidants, fiber, and many other nutrients such as calcium, iron, potassium, and more.

Dragon fruits offer these wonderful health benefits to your dog:

(1) Vitamin C

The first healthy benefit Fido can get from dragon fruits is it is rich in vitamin C.

Vitamin C helps strengthen a dog's immune system. It also improves their cognitive function and relieves body inflammation.

Yellow dragon fruit has the highest concentration of vitamin C.

However, remember that too much vitamin C can cause kidney problems and other health issues.

(2) Calcium & Iron

Like in humans, calcium and iron are needed for bone growth and development in dogs.

Luckily, both of these minerals can be found in dragon fruit.

Calcium is also essential to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system of dogs. It also supports proper nerve functions and helps in blood clotting.

Dragon fruit is a suitable snack for anemic dogs. It gives them the iron boost their body needs to manage iron deficiency.

(3) Antioxidants

Another health benefit that your pup can get from dragon fruit is antioxidants. This exotic fruit contains high levels of antioxidants.

This can help prevent severe health problems in dogs, like cancer, heart issues, diabetes, and arthritis.

It also helps protect the cells from aging.

(4) Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Dragon fruits are also a great source of fatty acids, such as omega-3 and 6. These are essential nutrients for dogs.

These healthy fatty acids help maintain the dog's skin and coat, making them shiny.

They also help reduce inflammation caused by allergies and arthritis.

Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids are also crucial for a dog's cognitive function. They help boost puppies' brain development.

(5) Low in Calories

Dragon fruits are also great for dogs since it is low in calories.

Low-calorie fruit means your dog can enjoy small portions of dragon fruits without exceeding his daily calorie limit.

(6) High in Fiber

Lastly, dragon fruits are also high in fiber, which helps improve the dog's digestive system functions. It helps prevent stomach issues like constipation.

Dragon fruits can also aid with weight management, regulating blood sugar levels, and lowering cholesterol.

Potential Risks of Dragon Fruits in Dogs

There are still plenty of fruits that contain natural toxins. Luckily, dragon fruits are not toxic to dogs.

However, excessive feeding of this tropical fruit can lead to high sugar levels and other health issues like:

Gastric Issues

High sugar levels in your dog's body can lead to gastric problems such as stomach upset, loose stools, and diarrhea.

Large amounts of sugar can also eliminate the good gut bacteria in your dog's stomach.

Weight Gain

Excessive dragon fruit feeding to dogs can also lead to weight gain. Overeating dragon fruits may lead to obesity due to high blood sugar levels.

Obesity is a serious problem that can lead to several other health issues, such as diabetes.

That's why dragon fruit is recommended to be given in small amounts only.

Poor Coat and Skin Quality

Large amounts of sugar can also lead to poor coat and skin health for your pup.

Sugars can disrupt the endocrine system, making it hard to produce the necessary hormones for healthy coat and skin production.

Tooth Decay

Just like with humans, sugar can damage dogs' teeth. Too much of it makes your dog prone to tooth decay and gum diseases.

Dragon fruit is recommended to be just an occasional treat.

Never feed your pup too much of this fruit to avoid these problems.

How Much Dragon Fruit Should You Feed Your Dog?

Dogs should not eat excessive amounts of dragon fruit to gain health benefits.

Usually, 2-3 spoonfuls of dragon fruit for dogs are good to go!

Just remember to remove the skin and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces to keep your dog from choking or causing blockage.

You can serve it as a frozen treat or mix it with his dog food.

What Other Exotic Fruits Can Dogs Eat?

If your dog is not fond of dragon fruits, that's okay!

There are still plenty of non-toxic exotic fruits to choose from that are safe for canine consumption.

Below, we've listed a short list of other fruits that dogs can enjoy.

Apricot

Boysenberry

Acai Berry

Kumquat

Blood Orange

Passion Fruit

Guava

Watermelon

Cucumber