Tropical Treats: Can Dogs Eat Mango Safely?

Imagine enjoying a juicy mango, the epitome of tropical bliss, under the shade of swaying palm trees. As you savor the sweet, vibrant flavors, your four-legged friend gazes up with big, hopeful eyes, clearly asking for a taste.

But before you've shared a slice of this sunny fruit, have you ever wondered, "Can dogs eat mango?"

The answer is yes, they can!

Are Mangoes a Healthy Treat Option for Dogs?

Mango is high in fiber and vitamins B6, C, and E, making it nutritious for both humans and dogs.

Your canine companion is sure to love this sweet fruit. Mangoes are soft when ripe. Nevertheless, cutting them into small pieces is essential to avoid a choking hazard.

Nutritional Benefits of Mangoes for Dogs

Mangoes are safe and healthy for most dogs if they don't have diabetes.

Just like many other dog-safe fruits, mangoes are packed with nutrients. They are high in fiber and contain alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, and these essential vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Potassium

Parts of the Mango to Avoid

Peel the mango and remove the pit before feeding it to your dog. While dogs can technically eat the skin, it's difficult to digest, so it's best to remove it. Mango pits pose a choking hazard and might get stuck in your pup's digestive tract. Additionally, the pit contains small amounts of cyanide.

Fruits like mangoes are high in fiber, which can upset your dog's stomach and cause constipation. Mangoes also contain high sugar content, which can lead to digestive issues, diarrhea, tooth decay, and diabetes. Furthermore, dried mango should not be given to your pup due to its concentrated sugar content.

How Much Mango Can a Dog Eat?

When feeding your dog mango as a special treat, keep the portions small and offer the fruit in moderation. Healthy treats like mango should only make up 10% of your dog's diet, with the other 90% coming from a well-balanced diet.

Recommended Portion Sizes for Dogs by Weight and Breed

For extra-small dogs (2-20 lbs.), give pieces that are ½-inch wide by ¼-inch thick.

For small, medium, large, and extra-large dogs (21+ lbs.), give pieces that are 1-inch wide by ¼-inch thick.

Extra-small dogs (2-20 lbs.):

Portion: 1-2 pieces.Extra-small dogs: Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Pugs.

Small dogs (21-30 lbs.):

Portion: 2-3 pieces.

Small dogs: Basenjis, Beagles, Miniature Australian Shepherds.

Medium dogs (31-50 lbs.):

Portion: 3-4 pieces.

Medium dogs: Basset Hounds, Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs, Siberian Huskies.

Large dogs (51-90 lbs.):

Portion: 4-5 pieces.

Large dogs: Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds.

Extra-large dogs (91+ lbs.):

Portion: 5-6 pieces.

Extra-large dogs: Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, St. Bernards, Great Pyrenees.

If your dog overeats mangoes, watch for symptoms of an upset stomach, such as:

• Decreased appetite
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Looking uncomfortable

If more severe symptoms, like vomiting, diarrhea, blood in vomit or stool, or collapse, occur, immediately take your dog to the vet.

How Often Should Dogs Eat Mango?

Even though mango is healthy for dogs, it should be given in moderation. Feeding your dog mango once or twice a week is sufficient to provide the nutritional benefits without overloading their system.

4 Ways to Prepare Mango for Your Dog

When feeding your dog mango, thoroughly wash the fruit, peel off the skin, and remove the pit. Then, cut the mango into small, 1-inch cubes.

Plain and Simple

Feed small cubes of raw mango directly to your pup.

Mashed Mango

Mash up the mango pieces and add them to your dog's food bowl. You can also stuff some mashed mango into a KONG toy and other delicious treats for a fun and nutritious snack. This adds variety to your dog's diet while keeping them entertained.

Frozen Summer Snack

Place cubed mango pieces, blueberries, and other dog-safe foods into an ice tray. Freeze them for a refreshing and cooling treat on hot days. These frozen snacks help keep your dog hydrated and happy during the summer.

Mango Smoothie

Blend mango with other dog-safe foods. Add a small amount of plain, sugar-free, xylitol-free yogurt to create a deliciously creamy smoothie. Pour this mixture over your dog's food or freeze it in a dog toy for later. You can also serve the smoothie in a bowl as a special treat.

Start Adding Healthy Treats to Your Dog's Diet!

For more advice on dog nutrition, health, and training, contact us and check out our blog!

Volhard Dog Nutrition and its expert canine nutrition coaches are now offering online consultations to help more dog parents discover why and how to feed their dogs the healthiest foods!

Speaking to a Volhard canine nutrition coach will help you understand the inseparable relationship between healthy food, a healthy body, and a healthy mind.

If you want to contact one of our Volhard canine nutrition coaches, don't hesitate to access our consultation page!

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