Why only in moderation for dogs
Bananas are not toxic to dogs. They contain potassium, fibre and vitamins, and the soft fruit is easy for a dog to chew.
A banana is still a sweet fruit. A dog has no need for sugar, and given regularly it adds to weight gain. All treats together should make up only a small part of what a dog eats in a day.
How to give it
- Peel it and cut it into small pieces.
- The first time, give very little and watch how your dog feels.
- Give it only now and then, as a treat, not as part of the meal.
- Do not give banana chips, cakes or other products with added sugar.
What to watch out for
- Too much can cause diarrhoea or constipation.
- Sugar and extra calories: take care with an overweight dog or one with a health problem that limits sugar.
- The peel is hard to digest and, if a larger piece is swallowed, can block the gut.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Flesh
In moderationThe flesh of a peeled banana is fine in small pieces.
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Peel
Not safeThe peel is not toxic, but it is hard to digest, so it is better not to give it.
What to give instead
- Apples Yes, apples are fine for dogs: give small pieces without the core and seeds, as an occasional treat. Safe
- Blueberries Yes, blueberries and bilberries are fine for dogs: give a few washed, unsweetened berries as an occasional treat. Safe
- Watermelon Yes, watermelon is fine for dogs: give small pieces of flesh without seeds or rind, especially as a cooling treat on a hot day. Safe
- Carrots Yes, carrots are fine for dogs: raw or cooked, unseasoned and cut into pieces, they make a crunchy, low-calorie treat. Safe
Looking for a treat?
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