Key Points:
- Dogs can eat bananas, but they should be offered in moderation.
- Bananas provide dogs with vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber.
- While not toxic, the banana peel can be hard for dogs to digest and may cause an upset stomach.
Have you ever peeled a banana and felt those puppy-dog eyes laser-focused on you, almost like your dog’s trying to use Jedi mind control on you? Or, maybe your pup has already swiped a piece, leaving you panic-Googling, “Can dogs eat bananas?!”
Well, the good news is — yes! Dogs can eat bananas safely in moderation. This yellow fruit is packed with nutrients that are good for your pooch, including antioxidants and vitamins.
Keep reading to discover how bananas affect your dog’s tummy, how much to share, and some fun ways you can treat your pup to this healthy snack.
Health benefits of bananas for dogs
Bananas can be a tasty treat for dogs and have many health benefits if eaten in moderation.
The fruit contains many essential vitamins and antioxidants like potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C that support your dog’s health. One ripe or slightly ripe banana (100g) is 98 calories and contains the following nutrients:
- Fat: 0 grams
- Protein: 1 gram
- Carbohydrates: 23 grams
- Sugar: 16 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Potassium: 326 milligrams
- Vitamin C: 12 milligrams
Feeding your pup the occasional banana treat can help prevent the following:
- Weight gain: Bananas are naturally high in fiber which can add bulk and a feeling of fullness to a pup’s diet.
- Stomach upset: Bananas are gentle on the digestive system and can be particularly beneficial if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
- Constipation: Bananas’ dietary fiber can soften stools and create regular bowel movements.
- Dehydration: Since these fruits also contain a lot of water, this can contribute to overall hydration and a healthier digestive process.
If your dog has any health problems, like diabetes or kidney disease, you should avoid giving them bananas. In this case, the high sugar content and high levels of potassium can be harmful.
How much banana can dogs eat in a day?
Treats should only make up 10% of your dog’s diet, so the amount of bananas your dog can eat daily depends on their size.
For example, an adult dog weighing 12 pounds should eat a total of 400 calories daily. Since a medium banana is 100 calories, a dog of this size can only eat about a quarter to a half banana per day.
As a general rule of thumb:
- Toy and small dogs: A few slices to a quarter banana
- Medium-size dogs: A quarter to half a banana
- Large and giant-size dogs: A half to a whole banana
Too much human food is never good for your dog. This is especially true about bananas due to their high sugar content.
The high amount of fiber in bananas can also make your dog’s digestion too smooth. It’s a case of “too much of a good thing.” For this reason, dog owners who want to avoid a cleanup on aisle two will want to start with very small amounts.
Remember: The majority of your pup’s diet should consist of balanced dog food and occasional tasty snacks to keep those tails wagging.
Safe ways to feed your dog bananas
Bananas can serve as a great dog treat every once in a while. Plus, they’re convenient to bring on the go. Here are a few ways to serve your dog bananas as an occasional treat.
Mash: You can mash a piece of banana and add the fruit to your dog’s kibble or place it directly in their dinner bowl. This is a great way to share bananas with puppies and small dogs to avoid choking hazards.
Slices: Slice fresh bananas into small pieces to avoid a choking hazard. Discard the banana peel before you offer the slices to your dog.
Frozen: Slice and freeze bananas for a treat that’ll keep your pup cool all summer. Top them with peanut butter or yogurt before freezing for an extra-sweet reward. You can also mix with water or ice and blend this mixture into a purée or smoothie.
Fillable dog toys: Put mashed bananas in a dog toy (like a KONG) and freeze it. This will keep your dog mentally stimulated, too.
DIY banana treats: Commercially prepared banana chips may contain sugar and preservatives your dog doesn’t need. Try baking thin banana slices in your oven until they’re crispy for a healthy snack you and your pup can share.
Can dogs eat banana peels?
Banana peels are not toxic to dogs but contain a high dose of fiber that can be tough on a doggie’s digestive system. This can cause an upset stomach or intestinal blockage at worst.
Unless your dog starts vomiting, having diarrhea, or straining to poop, you probably don’t need to take them to the vet for eating a banana peel.
Can dogs eat banana bread?
Dogs can’t eat banana bread since it contains too much natural sugar. Some banana breads also contain toxic ingredients for dogs, including chocolate, raisins, and macadamia nuts.
As if this isn’t reason enough, some dogs are allergic to wheat flour or grain, making banana bread a definite no-go. The same rule applies to banana cake and banana pudding. Discover what your pooch is allergic to with dog allergy testing.
Can puppies eat bananas?
A puppy’s diet is specifically designed to support their growth and development. After your puppy is weaned, you can serve them bananas very sparingly. When caring for a new puppy, trying out human foods can be risky until they’re big enough to avoid choking.
Bottom line: Dogs and bananas
Your dog can enjoy bananas and other fruity delights, including cherries, blueberries, strawberries, and others — but remember, this isn’t an all-you-can-eat fruit buffet. Snacks should stay under 10% of their diet, or you might find your pup sprinting for the nearest patch of grass.
Having a dog insurance plan in place is a smart move to cover future accidents. Learn more about how Pumpkin dog insurance plans can help cover the cost of eligible vet bills in the future, protecting your pup and your wallet.
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