Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?

Many humans enjoy a juicy watermelon snack in the summer months. As your dog begs for a bite, it is tempting to give into their puppy dog eyes; but is this a safe snack to share?

Your dog will be happy to learn that the refreshing watermelon is a fido friendly food! Not only is watermelon safe, but it also is a healthy snack for dogs and a good way to help them stay hydrated. This article will tell you what you need to know about feeding watermelon to your dog.

Is Watermelon Safe For Dogs?

Yes, watermelon is safe for dogs according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, watermelon must be fed with care and in moderation, as detailed below.

Does Watermelon Provide Any Nutrition For Dogs?

According to Dr. Marty Pets, watermelon provides some important nutrients for your canine companion:

Hydration

Watermelons are approximately 92% water, making this fruit a great way to help hydrate dogs in hot weather. Dogs who do not like or do not feel like drinking water may be motivated to snack on some watermelon, which can be very useful when trying to help a hot dog cool down.

Calcium

According to Thomas Labs, calcium supports the transmission of nerve impulses, the coagulation of blood, bone and tooth health, muscle health and cell signaling.

Potassium

According to 1800PETMEDS, potassium supports heart function, kidney function, muscle function and digestive function.

Vitamin B6

The group of vitamins referred to as Vitamin B6 are also found in watermelons. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), these vitamins include:

• Thiamine, which controls carbohydrate metabolism and energy, and supports the function of neural tissue.
• Vitamin B6 which supports the propagation of glucose, the synthesis of niacin, the function of red blood cells, nervous system function, the management of hormones, gene activation, and supports the immune system.
• B12, Riboflavin, and niacin which support the function of enzymes.
• Folic acid which supports the metabolism of nucleotides, the synthesis of mitochondrial protein and which plays a role in the function of amino acids.
• Pantothenic acid which supports metabolism and energy.

Vitamin A

Watermelons offer you a yummy way to give your dogs Vitamin A, which contributes to cell function, healthy vision, immune support, and fetal development according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Vitamin C

Watermelons are a source of Vitamin C, which is a healthy antioxidant and may contribute to reducing inflammation according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Is The Watermelon Rind Safe For Dogs To Eat?

While your dog may want to chew on the rind, allowing him or her to do so is not recommended. The rind of the watermelon may cause digestive upset according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Further, since the rind is very tough, it also has the potential to cause an intestinal blockage.

To help your dog enjoy watermelon safely, simply prepare it to be dog safe before serving. Begin by cutting the rind off, then dice the watermelon into bite sized chunks instead of handing your dog a wedge of watermelon.

Should you want to feed your dog a wedge of watermelon like the rest of the family, someone should hold the watermelon for the dog and supervise him or her as she enjoys this sweet summer snack.

Can Dogs Eat Watermelon Seeds?

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), watermelon seeds are not safe for dogs. They have the potential to cause an intestinal blockage, which makes it important that all seeds be removed before serving a snack of watermelon to your dog.

How Much Is Too Much Watermelon For Dogs To Eat?

There is not a universal serving size of watermelon for dogs. The amount of watermelon that is healthy for your dog to eat varies by their size and their digestive system; a Chihuahua will eat a very different amount than a mastiff, and certain dogs are able to digest watermelon better than others.

As such, use common sense and good judgment; when in doubt offer less than you think your dog should have.

If your dog is trying watermelon for the first time, only offer a few bites to avoid severe digestive upset in the event that watermelon does not agree with your dog’s tummy.

To better understand canine serving sizes in comparison to human serving sizes, review the Hills Pet Dog Treat Translator.

What Happens If My Dog Eats Too Much Watermelon?

Since watermelon is mostly water, it can be tempting to give your dog a generous serving frequently; after all, fruits are healthier than high calorie dog treats, right? Yes and no.

According to Pet Insurance U, if dogs consume watermelon in excess, it can cause digestive upset. This sweet snack should be an occasional treat, the size served based upon your dog’s weight, not a daily indulgence served with a heavy hand.

Can I Freeze The Watermelon To Give To My Dog?

Absolutely! In fact, this is how I like to give watermelon to my dogs. Cutting up a section of watermelon, freezing it overnight, and then giving it to them outside allows for a cleaner, longer-lasting, tasty experience!

What Other Fruits Are Okay For Dogs To Eat?

There are many benefits to feeding your dog fruit; fruits are low calorie snacks that you can share with your dog, which improves both of your diets. The good news is that according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), there is an assortment of fruits that are fido friendly, such as:

• Apples
• Bananas
• Blueberries
• Cantaloupe
• Cranberries
• Cucumbers
• Mango
• Oranges
• Peaches
• Pears
• Pineapple
• Raspberries
• Strawberries

Conclusion

Watermelon is safe for dogs to eat in moderation and is a delicious way to help keep your dog hydrated in hot weather. Watermelon seeds should be removed before serving this fruit to dogs, and the rind should either be cut off first or promptly taken away when your dog finishes eating the watermelon. There are many other fruits that dogs can eat; consider purchasing some dog safe fruits on your next grocery trip to share with your dog.