Yes, dogs can eat cantaloupe. Since it is an excellent source of dietary fiber and vitamins, it is a safe and nutritious alternative to traditional treats. It can help your dog stay at a healthy weight. Just make sure to remove the seeds as they can be a choking hazard.
One cup of cantaloupe balls offers 60 calories, 14.4g carbohydrates, 1.6g fiber, and 14g sugars.
Health benefits
- Dietary fibers in cantaloupe provide a healthy balance of water and stool, decrease the risk of constipation, reduce post-surgery complications, and lower the risk of impacted poop.
- Dehydration can lead to health issues even in dogs. Adding some water or changing your pet’s diet to water-rich food can help protect them against chronic urinary tract infections, blockages, and kidney problems.
- Cantaloupe offers vitamins A, C, and B6. These vitamins are fantastic and essential for your dog. Not only do they build & strengthen bones, teeth, and connective tissues, but they also help maintain your dog’s health throughout their life.
- Niacin is a core vitamin in Cantaloupe that helps in the breakdown of fatty acids which improves the health of your dog’s skin.
- Floating is crucial for normal blood-forming, immune function, cell division, and tissue growth.
Risks
- Dogs love cantaloupe, but its tough fibrous rinds can block their digestive tract and cause problems. It can be a choking hazard for your pup.
- Like any food, you should give your dog treats in moderation. In fact, if you feed your dog too many treats, it could lead to obesity. On top of that, cantaloupe is high in sugar and diabetic dogs should not be fed this type of food.
- Even the healthiest of dogs can have gas and diarrhea when they eat too much. To avoid that happening to yours, be sure to give him a serving that’s relative to his size.
How to feed cantaloupe to dogs?
- It is important to wash and scrub the outer surface thoroughly. Depending on the size of your dog, you should slice it into small bite-sized wedges. Do not forget to remove the seeds before serving.
- You should only feed your pup cantaloupe as a special treat. Playing with the Kong or other puzzle toys can provide some mental stimulation.
- Freeze chopped or shredded cantaloupe in an ice cube tray if that’s what your dog enjoys as a sweet and healthy snack.
- Dehydrate the fruit and make it into a healthy and affordable chew for your pet.
- Do not forget the 10% rule when serving a new treat to your pup.
Can dogs eat cantaloupe rind?
No, Dogs can not eat cantaloupe rind as it is very fibrous and can cause gastrointestinal upset. It also poses a choking hazard. So, it is not a wise decision to feed cantaloupe rind to your dog.
Can dogs have cantaloupe skin?
No, dogs can not have cantaloupe skin. Swallowing a large piece of cantaloupe melon skin may lead to intestinal blockage in some dogs. This could have negative effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, and constipation.
Ankita is a passionate pet lover and head of content at Pet Food Brands. With her extensive knowledge and research, she provides pet owners with top-quality information on dog food and nutrition. Her dedication to improving the lives of dogs makes her a leading voice in the industry.
