Can dogs eat peaches? Yes, peaches are nutritious fruits for dogs. They are abundant with vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, potassium, zinc, choline, iron, and folate. These nutrients help prevent diseases and promote proper organ functions.
Although peaches are considered a dog-friendly fruit, be careful how you prepare them for your dog to protect him from a few health concerns. Read on to discover the full health benefits this juicy fruit offers dogs and the best way to prepare it.
Are peaches good for dogs?
Peaches are good for dogs as they are packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants. Peaches are high in fiber and low in calories. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and E. which boosts dogs’ immune system.
Essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and copper are also found in this fruit. It offers a handful of nutritional benefits for dogs, such as:
- Boosting the immune system and preventing cancer
- Improving gut health
- Helping alleviate indigestion and constipation
- Aiding in lowering cholesterol levels
- Promoting healthy skin and coat
- Enhancing liver, heart, and kidney functions
- Supporting wound healing and tissue repair
- Assisting in fighting off infections
Can dogs have peaches?
In general, peaches are safe for dogs to eat, but there are a few concerns that you should be aware of. Here are the common health problems peaches may cause to dogs:
Cyanide Toxicity
Trace amounts of cyanide compounds are found in peaches’ pits, stems, and leaves. Although these are only in small quantities, if ingested frequently over time, they can cause cyanide poisoning.
If you have a peach tree in your backyard, make sure it is fenced in. Pick up fallen fruits to keep your dog from munching on them.
If you suspect that your dog has ingested toxic parts of the peach, observe for signs of cyanide toxicity. This includes:
- Severe panting
- Breathing difficulties
- Dilated pupils
- Gagging
- Appetite loss
- Red gums
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Regurgitation
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
These symptoms occur within fifteen minutes to about a few hours after ingestion. Get your dog checked by the vet immediately if he exhibits these signs.
Allergic Reaction
The most common allergens for dogs include egg, wheat, chicken, beef, dairy, and soy. It is rare for pooches to have an allergic reaction to fruits and vegetables. Regardless, it is always best to be cautious when introducing new food to your dog.
If you are uncertain that he is allergic to peaches, feed the fruit to him in small amounts. This way, an acute allergic reaction will be averted in case he proves to be allergic. Observe for any signs of allergic response, such as:
- Swelling
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Breathing difficulties
- Itching
- Red and inflamed skin
- Frequent scratching
- Hives
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
If he displays these symptoms, stop feeding him peaches and bring him to the vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. The vet may require you to exclude peaches from your dog’s diet if they are the cause of the symptoms.
How many peaches can dogs eat?
Feeding peaches to your dog must be done sparsely. Giving him 1-2 bite-sized pieces of pitted peaches is the ideal serving size. It should not comprise a big chunk of his diet.
Keep in mind that it is relatively high in fiber. A cup of peach slices contains around 2.5 grams of dietary fiber. Too much of it can lead to digestive problems such as upset stomach, constipation, and diarrhea.
Can puppies eat peaches?
Consult the vet first before allowing your puppy to eat peaches. Unlike full-grown dogs, puppies have a sensitive digestive system that isn’t completely developed yet. Making changes to their meals can bring about gastrointestinal problems.
Since puppies are still in their growth phase, they need to follow a strict healthy diet. Otherwise, they may suffer from undernourishment and other health issues.
If the vet does say it’s safe to give your pup peaches, introduce them gradually. This will help in getting his stomach used to the new food. Always remember to feed your dog in moderation as well.
Can diabetic dogs eat peaches?
Peaches are high in sugar. A cup of sliced fresh peaches contains at least 13 grams of sugar. Thus, it is not a recommended snack for diabetic dogs despite the health benefits. To find alternative fruit treats suitable for your dog, you can seek advice from the vet.
Can dogs eat peach pits?
Peach pits or stones contain amygdalin, a sugar-cyanide compound that is toxic to dogs. Apart from being poisonous, they can damage your pooch’s teeth due to their hard texture. They also pose as choking hazards and may cause severe stomach obstruction. So, avoid feeding peach pits to your dog.
Can dogs eat peach yogurt?
Peach yogurt is not a healthy snack for your dog. Dairy products like yogurt are among the most common triggers of allergies in dogs. Around 17% of canines are found to have dairy allergies. Besides that, peach yogurt contains sugar, preservatives, and additives that are unhealthy for them.
Can dogs eat canned peaches?
Canned peaches are bad for dogs since they have high sugar levels. Avoid feeding your dog other peach-flavored human food, such as peach pie, peach cobbler, and peach jam. They are packed with sugar, artificial preservatives, and additives. Some may even contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.
How to prepare peaches for your dog
First, consider buying organic peaches as they have less chemical exposure. Then, remove the leaves and stems.
Proceed by washing the peaches thoroughly to get rid of bacteria, dirt, and chemical residue. After that, cut them in half and remove the peach pit. Lastly, cut the peaches into small slices or chunks and serve them to your dog.
Home-made Peach Dog Treats
Here is a simple but delicious peach dog treat your dog will love, especially on a hot summer day:
Peachy Peanut Butter Pupsicle
Ingredients
- ½ peach
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 1 banana
- 3 cups Greek yogurt
Procedure:
- Place all the ingredients in the blender.
- Blend well until everything is properly incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into silicone molds.
- Pop into the freezer and wait until it is frozen solid.
- Serve it to your furry friend.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or Ziploc bag and place them in the fridge.
