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The delicious tropical taste of mango is loved by many, offering a refreshing burst of flavour and a host of health benefits. But when it comes to our furry friends, can they indulge in this tropical treat? Pet parents may find themselves pondering whether it’s safe to share a juicy slice of mango with their canine companion, but can dogs eat mango?
Can Dogs Eat Mango?
Yes, dogs can safely eat mango as part of a balanced diet. Mango is full of vitamins, and minerals, and is a great source of fiber. However, due to its high sugar content, mango should only be fed occasionally in small amounts. It’s also advised to remove the skin, to avoid causing digestive upset.
However, when it comes to human foods we need to know all the facts so that we can share these foods with our dogs safely. Understanding the nutritional benefits of mango, as well as any potential risks, ensures you have all the information you need to know to make an informed decision about offering mango to your dog.
So, let’s dive into the facts about mangoes, and discover whether this tropical fruit has a place on your furry friend’s menu.
Is Mango Good For Dogs?
Yes, mangoes are good for (most) dogs in moderation. Mangoes are full of fibre, vitamins, and minerals, offering many health benefits for our canine companions. However, their high sugar content means mango isn’t suitable for dogs that suffer from diabetes or those that are overweight.
While mangoes may not be suitable for all canines, their health benefits shouldn’t be overlooked for our furry friends that can indulge in this delicious treat. Here’s an overview of the nutritional benefits of mangoes for dogs:
- Fiber: Mangoes are a rich source of dietary fiber, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy digestive system in dogs. Fiber regulates bowel movements, helps prevent constipation, and promotes gastrointestinal health.
- Antioxidants: These juicy fruits contain alpha-carotene and beta-carotene, antioxidants that boost the immune system and help to protect against disease and oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
- Vitamins: Mangoes are packed full of essential vitamins, such as A, C, E, K, and B6. These vitamins host a plethora of benefits to your dog’s overall health, including supporting proper growth and development, strengthening the immune system, aiding collagen production, as well as supporting cognitive function and eye health.
- Minerals: In addition to vitamins, mangoes contain many essential minerals that contribute to your dog’s overall well-being. Mangoes are a great source of potassium, an important mineral that regulates nerve function and muscle contractions. They also contain magnesium, which is essential for many bodily functions, including enzyme activity, muscle and nerve function, and bone health.
Adding mango to your dog’s diet not only provides them with a tasty treat but offers an additional nutrient boost. However, keep in mind that mangoes are high in natural sugars and should be fed in moderation. When introducing new foods, it’s always good practice to consult with your veterinarian, especially if your dog has any underlying health conditions or dietary restrictions. Your vet can offer advice specific to your dog and their nutritional needs.
Can Puppies Eat Mango?
Yes, puppies can eat mango, however, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. Introduce mango slowly to your puppy’s diet and in moderation. Puppies have sensitive digestive systems that are still developing, so sudden changes or excessive amounts of new foods can lead to digestive upset.
Start by offering small, bite-sized pieces of mango as a treat. The pieces should be small enough so that they are easy to chew and swallow. Observe your puppy’s response and monitor for any signs of digestive issues such as diarrhoea or vomiting. If your puppy shows no adverse reactions, you can continue to incorporate mango into their diet as an occasional treat.
Can Dogs Eat Mango Skin?
While technically dogs can eat mango skin, it’s not recommended. Mango skin is tough and fibrous, which can be difficult for dogs to digest. If consumed in large amounts mango skin can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset, including stomach discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
Additionally, for smaller dogs or those prone to gulping their food mango skin can pose a potential choking hazard. To ensure your dog’s safety and prevent any digestive issues, it’s always best to peel mango before offering it to your dog. By removing the skin you eliminate potential risks and keep your pup safe and healthy.
Can Dogs Eat Dried Mango?
While dogs can eat dried mango, it’s not recommended. Dried mango has a higher sugar content, and some brands even add additional sugars. Furthermore, some prepackaged dried mango can contain preservatives, such as sulfites, which can lead to thiamine deficiencies, causing serious health issues.
If you do feed dried mango to your dog opt for homemade dried mango, free from added sugars and preservatives, ensuring the health and well-being of your pup. Due to its high sugar content, be mindful of how much you feed. Keep portion sizes small and only offer it as an occasional treat in moderation.
How Much Mango Can Dogs Have?
When it comes to feeding mango to your dog, portion control is key to maintaining balance and preventing any potential digestive issues. The amount of mango your dog can have depends on their size and activity levels. Large and more active breeds may be able to tolerate slightly larger portions. Remember mango is high in natural sugars, so should be given occasionally and in moderation.
To help you determine the right amount of mango for your canine companion we’ve put together a guide based on your dog’s size. However, first, you will need to prepare the mango by cutting it into slices about ¼ inch thick. These slices can then be cut into smaller pieces to suit the size of your dog.
- Toy Breeds (e.g., Toy Poodle and Chihuahua): Cut the mango slices into bite-sized ½ inch pieces. Recommended portion: 1 to 2 pieces.
- Small Breeds (e.g., Cairn Terrier and French Bulldog): Cut the mango slices into bite-sized ½ inch pieces. Recommended portion: 3-4 pieces.
- Medium Breeds (e.g., Border Collie and Chow Chow): Cut the mango slices into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. Recommended portion: 4-6 pieces.
- Large Breeds (e.g., Labrador Retriever and Weimaraner): Cut the mango slices into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. Recommended portion: 6-8 pieces.
- Giant Breeds (e.g., Great Dane and St Bernard): Cut the mango slices into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. Recommended portion: 8-10 pieces.
Remember, when cutting the mango pieces for your dog, ensure that they are small enough for them to chew and swallow easily to prevent possible choking. Always monitor your dog while they’re enjoying their treat to ensure they can manage the pieces of the mango comfortably.
These portion sizes should only be used as a general guide. Portion size can vary depending on your dog’s specific dietary needs, activity level, and overall health. It’s always advisable to consult with your veterinarian to determine the exact portion size that is appropriate for your individual dog.
How To Feed Mango To Dogs
There are several ways to offer mango to your dog, providing them with a variety of textures and experiences. Before feeding any mango make sure you have removed the skin and stone. The fibrous skin can cause digestive discomfort and the stone can pose a choking hazard, potentially intestinal blockage. So, be sure to take time to carefully remove both and dispose of them properly.
Here are some methods you can try when feeding mango to your furry friend:
- Fresh: Fresh is the simplest way to serve this tropical delight to your furry friend and requires little advanced preparation
- Frozen: When cut into bite-sized pieces and frozen, mango can be an extra refreshing, cooling treat for your dog on a hot day. However, you will have to plan ahead and get your mango slices in the freezer a few hours before treat time.
- Pureed: Blitzing fresh mango turns this delicious fruit into a versatile food enrichment tool. Pureed or mashed mango can be mixed into meals or used as a Kong filling which you can then freeze. Freezing stuffed Kongs is a great way of making a treat last longer and encouraging your dog to actively work for their food, providing them with a rewarding task. Additionally, mango puree can be smeared on a Lickimat. Lickimats are another food enrichment tool that can help reduce anxiety by redirecting their stress and providing your dog with an engaging activity.
Remember, regardless of the method you choose, always introduce new foods gradually and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions. If you notice any digestive upset or allergic symptoms, discontinue feeding mango and consult with your veterinarian.
Final Thoughts
Mango can be a safe and nutritious addition to your dog’s diet when fed in moderation and with proper precautions. This tropical fruit offers a range of health benefits, including fibre, essential vitamins, and minerals that support your dog’s overall well-being.
When feeding mango to your dog, remember to first remove the stone and peel to prevent any potential choking hazards or digestive issues. Additionally, be mindful of its high sugar content, as it may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions, such as diabetes, or those on a calorie-controlled diet.
Offering small, bite-sized pieces of fresh or frozen mango can be a refreshing and enjoyable treat for your pup, but you can also consider mashing mango. Mashed mango can be mixed into meals or used as a filler for interactive toys, such as Kongs or Lickimats, offering mental stimulation, and redirecting unwanted behaviours.
As with any new food introduction, do so slowly and observe your dog for any adverse reactions. Consult with your veterinarian to ensure mango aligns with your dog’s specific dietary needs and health considerations.
If you’re looking for more treats to share with your canine companion, check out our list of Human Foods Dogs Can Eat to give you some ideas.
Happy snacking friends!