Why dogs can have it
Watermelon flesh is not toxic to dogs. It is almost all water, contains potassium and vitamins A and C, and is low in calories, so it makes a cooling treat on a hot day.
The seeds and rind need care. The hard rind is difficult to digest, and seeds swallowed with a large piece can block the gut, especially in a small dog.
Watermelon contains natural sugar, so give only a little, and only now and then.
How to give it
- Cut off the rind and remove the seeds.
- Cut it into small cubes; on a hot day they can be chilled.
- The first time, give very little and watch how your dog feels.
- Do not give watermelon-flavoured sweets, ice cream or other sweetened products.
What to watch out for
- The rind is hard to digest and, if a larger piece is swallowed, can block the gut.
- Many swallowed seeds can block a small dog's gut.
- Too much watermelon can cause diarrhoea.
- Natural sugar: take care with an overweight dog.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Flesh
SafeThe red flesh without seeds is fine in small pieces.
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Seeds
Not safeRemove the seeds: many of them can block the gut.
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Rind
Not safeThe rind is hard and difficult to digest, so do not give it.
What to give instead
- Cucumbers Yes, fresh cucumber is fine for dogs: it is mostly water and low in calories, but do not give pickled cucumbers. Safe
- Blueberries Yes, blueberries and bilberries are fine for dogs: give a few washed, unsweetened berries as an occasional treat. Safe
- Apples Yes, apples are fine for dogs: give small pieces without the core and seeds, as an occasional treat. Safe
- Strawberries Yes, strawberries are fine for dogs: wash the berry, remove the leaves, cut it up and give it as an occasional treat. Safe
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