Chew Test Is Watermelon Good for Dogs?
If you are asking: can dogs eat watermelon, then the answer is a definite yes. Your dog and watermelons should become best friends in the summer! Though watermelon is high in sugar and should be fed to your dog in moderation. On the other hand, it also hydrates your dog with its 92% water content with added benefits of a sweet taste and pleasant odor. Watermelon does not contain cholesterol and has almost no sodium or fat. Combine that with its many nutrients and fiber; you’ll have a great snack that is an excellent part of your pooch’s diet.
How Is Watermelon Good for Dogs?
Watermelon contains vitamin A, which benefits your dog’s cells, eyes, and immune system. They also have vitamin B6, which helps with a healthy and shiny coat. The fiber in watermelon is soluble and wraps around the sugar content, slowing down its absorption. Why else is watermelon good for dogs? It also contains potassium which helps your dog’s body maintain proper fluid balance. With that said, avoid feeding your dog watermelon-flavored products as they can have large amounts of sugar and artificial sweeteners that may harm your pooch.
Dogs and watermelon are great together, but too much of it can be bad for your pooch. On average, one cup of diced watermelon has about 45 calories. Keep that in mind, as treats should amount to 10% of a dog’s healthy daily calorie intake. The rind is terrible for your dog and can cause stomach issues like gastrointestinal distress when ingested. In rare cases, it can even trigger vomit and diarrhea. Feeding your dog too much watermelon can also cause an upset stomach. Consult your vet before feeding your dog any kind of human food to be sure about how often and how much is good for your dog.
How Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?
Make sure your dog and watermelon have a great edible relationship by removing the seeds and rind. Smaller dogs are more likely to choke or experience gastrointestinal blockage from eating watermelon seeds, so be extra thorough. If you’re wondering when can dogs eat watermelon, then ideally, it should be late morning to late afternoon. The high sugar and water content will fuel your dog’s activities. You should avoid feeding your dog watermelon at night as the sugar could increase your dog’s weight from the lack of activity. Chill the watermelon for a refreshing treat in the middle of a hot summer afternoon.
Buy seedless watermelon if you want to give your dog frozen watermelon cubes or balls. Cut the watermelon in half, then use a scooper to form balls or dice them up with a knife and place them in the freezer. You can remove them from the freezer early for a popsicle-like texture or let them freeze completely to get watermelon ice cubes. Make sure the balls or cubes aren’t too small, as they can become choking hazards.
