Mary Allen
One of the questions dog owners sometimes ask is whether their dogs can eat mangoes. Perhaps you’re looking to add more nutrients and fiber to your dog’s diet, or you might just want to introduce them to some new treats and flavors. You may be looking for something edible that is more natural and doesn’t contain any processed foods to reward him for his good behavior.
Processed treats for dogs and other pets have been controversial in recent years. They are often made with animal by-products and substances that humans will never eat. Many pet owners are looking for ways to switch to more natural, higher-quality foods that we consume ourselves.
But aren’t dogs carnivores? Why do you have to eat fruit?
Your dog is a natural carnivore and relies on the fat and protein in meat for its health and well-being. Fruits and vegetables are carbohydrates, and he doesn’t need carbohydrates in his diet. This has been confirmed by research conducted by the Association of American Feed Control Officials, among others, who used this fact when creating their nutrient profiles for pet foods.
However, there is evidence that wolves, the closest relatives of dogs in the wild, sometimes supplement their diets with fruits and other herbs. While there is much debate in veterinary medicine and the animal world as to whether fruits and vegetables are necessary for good canine health, many experts agree that they are useful, if not essential, additions to dog food.
Mangoes and other fruits also have a sweet taste that many dogs love. Provided they don’t harm your dog, they can be an attractive alternative to processed dog treats and actually benefit them.
What are the benefits of a mango?
Mango is high in fiber and calcium. Additionally, this fruit contains other nutrients such as vitamins A, B6, C, and E. While mangoes should obviously not be an essential part of your dog’s diet, these vitamins, and other nutrients can play an important role in your dog’s health and well-being.
Fiber
Important for the prevention of diarrhea and constipation. Helps your dog feel full for longer, preventing overeating and weight gain. Helps produce fatty acids, which help prevent harmful bacteria from entering your dog’s gut.
Calcium
For healthy bones, teeth, muscles, and the nervous system. It’s also important for pregnant dogs who are prone to eclampsia if they lack calcium.
Vitamin A
For a shiny coat, healthy skin, good vision, and healthy growth in young dogs.
Vitamin B6
For a strong immune and nervous system, healthy brain processes and red blood cell production.
Vitamin C
Contributes to a healthy immune system and the development of skin, teeth, bones, and cartilage.
Vitamin E
An antioxidant that prevents the formation of harmful free radicals and promotes immunity, brain function, and good vision.
How to add new food to your dog?
Whenever you plan to introduce a new food into your dog’s diet, the first thing you should do is check online or with your vet to see if he can eat it.
Some foods that are safe enough for humans may contain substances that are toxic to dogs. For example, chocolate contains theobromine, a compound derived from cocoa beans. Although humans can metabolize this easily, dogs cannot and this can build up toxic levels in their system.
When it comes to fruits and vegetables, there are some that your dog can happily eat and digest, and others that can cause everything from stomach pain and mild diarrhea to other, more serious health conditions.
For example, avocados contain persin, a toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Grapes and raisins can cause sudden acute kidney failure in dogs. Therefore, it is always important to research new foods before introducing them into your dog’s diet.
Once you’ve determined that a food is generally safe for dogs, it’s worth checking to see if it’s specific to your own pet. Does he have any food allergies or intolerances? Your vet’s advice is helpful here.
After your dog has eaten the new food, monitor him for signs of stomach pain, diarrhea, or vomiting for the next few days. He may have some fruit intolerance.
Preparing and introducing your dog to eating mangoes?
Wash the fruit thoroughly to remove dirt, dust, and bacteria from the skin’s surface.
Peel the meat and cut into small pieces if necessary. Larger dogs have less trouble with large chunks, especially when the mangoes are ripe, as the fruit will be soft and juicy. But if you have a small breed of dog, you should cut it up for him – the smaller your dog, the smaller the portion you need to give him.
It’s okay for dogs to eat the skin, but they may have trouble digesting it. It’s a good idea to remove all of the skin.
Feed him a small meal first to see if he is attracted to this fruit. As above, wait a few moments to see if she reacts negatively before giving another mango.
The mango has a large seed in the middle. Remove these seeds completely and dispose of them safely and out of reach. Ingestion may result in obstruction of the intestines or stomach.
Mango seeds also contain small amounts of cyanide, so chewing or swallowing them is not good for him for this reason either.
What if Dogs Eat/Swallow Mango Seeds?
If you notice any of the following symptoms, whatever you suspect your dog has ingested, seek veterinary advice if the problem becomes urgent:
- choking
- diarrhea, vomiting – or both;
- decreased appetite;
- A stomach that seems tender to the touch;
- lethargy or weakness;
- dehydration
If your dog isn’t showing any symptoms, but you’re fairly certain he’s ingested the mango seeds, you should take it to the vet just to be safe. It’s entirely possible that the seeds will pass harmlessly through his digestive system, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
How many mangoes can a dog eat at once?
Use your discretion based on your dog’s size and tastes. However, it’s worth noting that a dog’s digestive system is not designed to handle large amounts of fiber. If you overfeed him in one sitting, your dog will develop diarrhea or an upset stomach. As with anything in life, moderation is key for both dogs and humans!