Credit: @dogstrust_darlington

Can dogs eat watermelon?

This article is written by Pet Circle veterinarian, Dr. Carla Paszkowski, BVSC (Hons)

Who doesn't love a cold slice of juicy watermelon on a hot day? Even dogs enjoy chomping into this watery sweet fruit. But is watermelon safe for dogs to eat?

The answer is yes, so long as you remove the rinds. Both red and yellow watermelon fruit, and even their seeds, are completely safe for dogs. The rind, however, can cause gastrointestinal blockage and gut upset.

Health benefits of watermelon for dogs?

Watermelon boasts a number of health benefits for dogs.¹ There is a reason watermelon is routinely recommended as a safe treat by veterinarians!

Watermelon is:
-Full of nutrients including Vitamin C, A, and B6, as well as potassium
-92% water, which can help promote hydration
-Only contains about 50 calories a cup - making it a great option for pups on a diet.
-Also contains no fat or cholesterol, so it's a safe treat for dogs who experience pancreatitis or IBD.

Credit: @jmenujeme_se_baron_a_bibi

Can dogs eat watermelon seeds?

Absolutely - in small quantities. Watermelon seeds are not toxic to dogs, and even contian beneficial nutrients - just like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. In fact, many dietitions recommend that humans eat watermelon seeds rather than spitting them out, and suggest that roasting them creates a healthy crunchy snack.²

If your dog has eaten a few watermelon seeds, don't worry - it's completely safe. However, too many watermelon seeds can cause intestinal blockage, particularly in small dogs with narrow intestines. So ultimately it's best to remove the seeds before sharing watermelon.

Do watermelon seeds contain cyanide?

Watermelon seeds contain an extremely small trace amount of cyanide. Research from 2015³ demonstrated that watermelon seeds contain anywhere from 0.79 to 0.01mg of cyanide in every 100 grams of seeds. Researchers pointed out that this was less cyanide than in sweet potato leaves, which are edible. Ultimately, your dog would have to eat an awful lot of watermelon seeds - and chew them to get through the shells - for it to pose anything resembling toxicity.

Credit: @goldenretrievercc

How to feed your dog watermelon

Watermelon can be given to your dog in a number of ways. You can cut it into slices with the rind removed, you can freeze it and give as a natural popsicle on a hot day, or you can blend it into a puree.

Can all breeds of dogs eat watermelon?

Yes, all breeds of dogs can eat watermelon, but it must be given properly and in moderation. Watermelon is a hydrating, vitamin-rich treat, suitable on a hot day. However, always remove the rind and most of the seeds as they can cause digestive issues or blockages (a few watermelon seeds are ok). Introduce any new food gradually and observe for any adverse reactions. Always remember, treats like watermelon should not exceed 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake, and a balanced dog food should form the majority of their diet.

Are there any health risks associated with feeding dogs too much watermelon?

Feeding dogs too much watermelon can lead to diarrhoea. Consuming the rind or excessive numbers of seeds can result in serious gastrointestinal blockage, and the fruit's high sugar content could affect blood sugar levels, especially in diabetic dogs. Furthermore, even though watermelon is low in calories, overconsumption can contribute to weight gain and related health issues. Always serve watermelon in moderation and consult your vet if you notice any unusual symptoms after your dog eats it.

Are there any precautions that need to be taken when feeding watermelon to dogs with certain health conditions?

Yes, there are certain health conditions that might warrant precautions when feeding watermelon to dogs:

• Diabetes: While the sugars in watermelon are natural, they can still affect blood sugar levels in dogs. If your dog is diabetic, you should consult with your vet before giving them watermelon.
• Digestive problems: If your dog has a sensitive stomach or chronic gastrointestinal issues, introducing new foods can sometimes cause upset. Always introduce new foods slowly and monitor for any signs of discomfort or changes in stool.
• Obesity: While watermelon is low in calories, it should still be considered a treat. For overweight or obese dogs, any additional calories should be carefully considered in the context of their overall diet.

In general, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing a new food into your dog's diet, particularly if they have a known health condition.

Shop Pet Supplies

References