Cantaloupes are a great summer fruit that gives humans a fresh breeze of air. But what about dogs? Many people wonder about “can dogs eat cantaloupe?”
The answer is – YES! Your dog can eat cantaloupes!
We understand the unsaid rule of sharing everything delicious with your dog, and when it comes to these tasty treats, it can be hard to resist.
So here are all the benefits and risks cantaloupes can bring to your dog, along with fun ways to add punch to these fleshy treats!
Benefits of Cantaloupes
Dogs have different dietary needs than that of humans. Fortunately, cantaloupes can benefit your dog in multiple ways. It’s one of the human foods that dogs can have safely if served in moderation.
1. Rich in vitamins
Cantaloupes are rich in vitamins A, C and minerals like potassium that supports the immune system and improves your dog’s health. Cantaloupes also have great hydrating powers that keep your pooch fresh and away from heat-related illnesses during sunny summer days.
2. Super source of fiber
In addition, this fleshy fruit is packed with fiber that improves bowel movement and alleviates constipation and other gastrointestinal problems. However, anything over limits has repercussions. If cantaloupe is ingested in massive amounts, instead of treating constipation, it can lead to diarrhea or runny stool.
3. Low in calories
They are great if your doggo is on a diet plan. As they have low calories, they do not add much to your dog’s weight and are a yummy treat that does not lead to excessive calorie intake.
Risks of Dogs Eating Cantaloupe
Food that is made for humans is not always great for dogs. There are several options in the market that you can choose food specifically for your dog.
Feeding them cantaloupe has benefits, but it also comes with a few risks that a responsible pet parent should consider.
1. High in sugar
Containing almost 13 grams of sugar (article), a cup of cantaloupe can bring a lot of sweetness and horror to your dog’s life. Especially if your dog is diabetic, ensure NOT to feed this sugary treat.
If your dog loves the flavor of cantaloupe, you can mix a few chunks with plain unsweetened yogurt and serve them so it does not contribute to blood sugar levels in your dog.
2. Upset stomach
Dogs and stomach aches go hand in hand. They have a sensitive stomach that is very susceptible to being infected or affected by any alien food item. In this case, cantaloupes in massive amounts can lead to digestive issues, including diarrhea or vomiting, discomfort, or stomach aches.
To avoid this, you should first serve your dog cantaloupes in small amounts, observe their behavior, and notice if they show any signs of discomfort. Gradually, as your dog gets familiar with this fleshy yummy treat, you can increase the doses.
3. Allergies
Dogs can be allergic to certain food items. As a responsible pet owner, you should check with your veterinarian before introducing new food items to your dog, as it might show allergic reactions.
Possible Symptoms After Dogs Eat Cantaloupe
If your canine companion has cantaloupes in awfully massive amounts, it may not suit your dog’s digestive system, and they might show unusual behavior or symptoms.
Here is a list of signs that dogs can pose if cantaloupes have ill effects on them.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gas issues
- Itchy skin
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst
- Choking hazard
If your dog faces these consequences, immediately seek veterinary attention.
Safe Ways to Feed Your Dog Cantaloupes
Here comes the exciting part, where you and your doggo get to be creative and become the world’s best chef pair.
Considering the risks and benefits associated with cantaloupes, we have some recipes and ways you and your dog can share a bowl without one of you going on some sick adventure.
1. Cantaloupe slushie
This is for your lazy yet “I wanna be creative today” days. All you need to do is scoop out the fleshy part from cantaloupes, remove the seeds, freeze them overnight, and blend them until it all gets smooth, and tada! Your slushie is ready.
You can add other ingredients like frozen melons, apples, and blueberries to make it as luxurious as possible.
Note: This can be an extremely sweet treat, so remember not to go over to feed your dog this slushie. Moreover, avoid giving it to diabetic dogs. Consult your veterinarian for better advice.
2. Hiding pills
The best way to get your dog to have medicines is to hide them. When it comes to their favorite snacks, dogs can become eager eaters. Make productive use of this, and hide their essential pills into a chunk of cantaloupe. This way, they will gulp the treat down happily and don’t give you the headaches of running after them!
3. Remove seeds and cantaloupe rinds
Cantaloupes alone are not that problematic; however, it gets tricky if a dog ingests its rind or seeds. Even though the seeds are not toxic, they can cause upset stomachs or choking hazards.
Never give your pooch whole cantaloupe, as they will end up eating the rinds, which can cause choking hazards and life-threatening situations. Therefore, always give your dog small cantaloupe chunks without seeds.
4. Top it over kibbles
Another way you can incorporate these yummy fleshy bites into your dog’s diet is to serve it over their regular kibbles or dog food. This will enhance the flavor and add new texture and fun to their bland meals. Also, cantaloupes do not give your dog a lot of nutritional value; they can still be a flavor bomb for them!
Final Thoughts
So, can dogs eat cantaloupes?
Well, cantaloupes are an excellent treat for your dog. Don’t fear the risks; some dogs can tolerate this fruit without showing signs of allergy or digestive problems. To be safe, consult your veterinarian before adding new fruit to your dog’s menu.
Furthermore, cantaloupe may have benefits, but they are not enough to substitute their primary meals. Hence, they should be served as treats for small nutritional value but as a party for your pooch’s taste buds.
So next time you cut cantaloupes, toss a piece or two to your dog as well!
Frequently Asked Question
Dogs can dry cantaloupes, as they only pose risks once overfed. Moderation is the key when feeding cantaloupe to your dog. Moreover, each dog is unique, and veterinarian supervision is recommended before adding anything new to your dog’s diet.
It depends on the size of the dogs. Small dogs should only be given small amounts of cantaloupe, while large dogs can have half a cup. Also, it depends on the appetite and dietary needs of your dog. Keep their weight and health in check before giving them this fibrous treat.
The cantaloupe leaves are not considered toxic or deadly but can potentially cause choking hazards, upset stomach, or allergic reactions. Therefore, giving your dog cantaloupe leaves is not good, as it provides no nutritional benefits.
Dogs should not be given cantaloupe rinds at any cost. Rinds can easily get stuck in their throat, especially in the cases of small or toy dogs. Generally, it will be challenging to digest and can lead to stomach aches, vomiting, constipation, and discomfort for your dog.
