[Pet-related knowledge] 7 great fruits for dogs
🐶 7 Great Fruits for Dogs - Super Detailed Guide
Many dog owners in Hong Kong want to feed their pets healthier foods, not just dog food. Sometimes, they even add fresh fruit as a snack. 🍎 But a word of caution: not all fruit is suitable for dogs; some can even be toxic! Therefore, owners need to know which fruits are safe to eat and use the right amount.
Below, we've compiled seven fruits that are perfect for dogs . Each one includes detailed explanations of its benefits, precautions, and actual dog-rearing practices in Hong Kong, so you can confidently prepare healthy snacks for your furry friend 🐾.
1️⃣ Apple 🍎
Nutritional value : Rich in vitamins A and C, and buried in fiber, it helps intestinal health.
- How to eat : Cut into small pieces, remove the core and seeds. The seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide and are not suitable for dogs.
- Benefits : Low in fat and calories, suitable for dogs who are losing weight.
- Note : Don’t eat too much, otherwise excessive fiber will cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Editor's thoughts 👉 Apples are often sold at a discount in Hong Kong markets, so you can just pick some up and take them home, which is simple and convenient.
2️⃣ Blueberries 🫐
Nutritional value : High in antioxidants, helps boost immunity and slow down cell aging.
- How to eat : Wash it directly and feed it to dogs. The fine grains are suitable for small dogs.
- Benefits : Naturally low in sugar, safer than strawberries.
- Note : Do not take too much at one time, otherwise it may cause loose stools.
Editor's perspective👉 Hong Kong supermarkets often have boxes of blueberries. Grab a few as a reward snack to keep your dog happy and healthy.
3️⃣ Watermelon 🍉
Nutritional value : It has high water content and can help dogs cool down and replenish water when eaten in the summer.
- How to eat : Remove the seeds and skin, and cut into small pieces.
- Benefits : Contains vitamins A and C and is low in calories.
- Note : Do not eat the seeds or skin. The seeds will clog your intestines and the skin is difficult to digest.
Editor's note: Hong Kong is hot and humid in the summer, and dogs are prone to heatstroke. Occasionally giving them a few pieces of frozen watermelon is like a "natural popsicle".
4️⃣ Banana 🍌
Nutritional value : Contains potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber, which can help gastrointestinal motility.
- How to eat : Slice or mash, suitable as a small reward.
- Benefits : Helpful for dogs prone to constipation.
- Note : It is high in sugar and not suitable for excessive consumption, especially for obese or diabetic dogs.
Editor’s take 👉 Hong Kong convenience stores sell bananas all day long. You can grab one and bring it home anytime, sharing it with your dog. It’s simple and convenient.
5️⃣ Papaya 🍈
Nutritional value : Contains digestive enzymes to help gastrointestinal digestion, and is rich in vitamin C.
- How to eat : Remove the seeds and skin and cut into small pieces. Do not eat raw green papaya.
- Benefits : A moderate amount of fiber can help improve constipation.
- Note : Eating too much at one time may cause loose stools.
Editor's perspective 👉 Many supermarkets in Hong Kong have boxes of pre-cut papayas. You can take them home and use them as a small dessert for your dog. They are very cost-effective.
6️⃣ Strawberry 🍓
Nutritional value : Contains antioxidants and vitamin C, as well as natural enzymes, which help maintain dental health.
- How to eat : Wash and cut into small pieces, remove the stems.
- Benefits : Low in calories, suitable for dogs who want to control their weight.
- Note : It is relatively high in sugar, so be careful with your portion size.
Editor's note: Hong Kong often has affordable strawberries during spring and summer. Owners can buy a few and dogs can enjoy them together.
7️⃣ Hami melon/honeydew melon🍈🍯
Nutritional value : Contains vitamins A, C and antioxidants, and is rich in water.
- How to eat : Remove the seeds and skin and cut into small pieces.
- Benefits : Helps replenish water and is low in calories.
- Note : Don’t compare too much, as it can cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Editor's thoughts 👉 Hong Kong supermarkets sometimes sell cut-up honeydew melons. Owners can keep a little for their dogs to share. It's really sweet and refreshing.
📝 Editor's Summary
Fruits that are safe for dogs to eat include:
✅ Apple (core and seeds removed)
✅ Blueberry (strong antioxidant)
✅ Watermelon (a great hydrating food in summer)
✅ Bananas (contains potassium but is high in sugar, so a small amount is fine)
✅ Papaya (aids digestion but must be deseeded)
✅ Strawberries (low in calories but portion control)
✅ Hami melon/honeydew melon (refreshing and hydrating)
I'd like to add: Fruit is just a "snack," not a staple food. Your dog's nutritional needs still depend on dog food. Fruit should only be used as a small daily treat. Remember, moderation is key. With proper management, your pet can enjoy healthy, happy little pleasures together with their owner. 🐶💖