Mary Allen
Even if our dogs are not monkeys, there are enough four-legged friends who cannot resist the sweet yellow temptation. But is feeding bananas good for the dog? Or are bananas even harmful?
In this article, we not only clarify the question of whether dogs are allowed to eat bananas but also whether and to what extent they are healthy or even harmful.
Nutrient content of bananas
The delicious yellow fruit is very nutritious and a good source of energy, which our dogs can also benefit from. 100g of banana contains 89 calories, of which 93% come from carbohydrates, 4% from protein, and 3% from fat. Unfortunately, around 53% of the total carbohydrate content is accounted for by fructose. For this reason, very ripe bananas in particular should not be fed to dogs that are already overweight.
Bananas are generally not suitable as a permanent food, but should only be given as a snack from time to time. For example, they supply energy in winter or in phases of increased demand. Bananas contain many valuable nutrients. We will now clarify what these are.
Potassium / Potassium:
In humans, potassium is essential for maintaining cell, nerve, and muscle function and is part of the very important sodium-potassium pump mechanism. In dogs, potassium has similar benefits, including increased metabolism and nervous system function, as well as maintaining normal fluid and electrolyte balance.
Potassium has been shown to be particularly useful in older people as it can help improve cognitive function. By dilating the blood vessels in the brain more efficiently, blood flow is increased and the delivery of oxygen and other essential nutrients is improved. This can also lead to a significant improvement in cognitive function in older dogs because potassium has such an effect on them too.
Potassium is also important in muscle contraction and helps prevent muscle cramps. This nutrient can also help improve your dog’s overall mobility. In addition, adequate levels of potassium in the blood can help increase the amount of calcium, which is used to increase bone density. This strengthens the bones and makes them more resistant to fractures.
Omega-3 fatty acids:
Although the plant-based type of essential fatty acid is in the form of alpha-linolenic acid, this fatty acid offers exceptional benefits that are somewhat similar to fish-derived EPA and DHA. Alpha-linolenic acid affects inflammation and protects the heart. Fortunately, heart and circulatory diseases are rather rare in dogs.
Vitamin C:
One of the best-known vitamins is vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. Our dogs also benefit from this vitamin, especially with regard to the antioxidant effect. But the effect on the skin by promoting collagen production should not be underestimated. Vitamin C thus promotes healthier skin, which is important as a defense against external threats such as germs.
Choline:
This micronutrient has several important tasks in the body. Among other things, it is responsible for maintaining optimal liver function. This is particularly important as the liver is the organ responsible for detoxification. In addition to healthier liver function, choline may also support improved brain and nerve function as it is essential for nerve cell communication. It also supports the function of the muscles, as it helps to transmit nerve stimuli faster and better.
Magnesium and Phosphorus:
Both minerals are important for the formation and maintenance of healthier and stronger bones, which in turn can help improve mobility in dogs.
Phytosterols:
These sterols are essential components of cell membranes and ensure that the various structures within the cell are adequately protected against various disruptions and threats. It is mainly believed to relate to the protective benefits of cancer and lowering cholesterol levels in humans. In dogs, phytosterols are important for maintaining skin integrity as well as overall coat health.
How many bananas are healthy?
Like all things consumed in excess, bananas can cause adverse reactions. Since bananas have a constipating effect, excessive consumption can lead to constipation not only in humans but also in dogs. However, in smaller amounts, bananas support bowel function because they contain fiber. The pectin it contains has a diarrhea-relieving effect, which is why bananas can be useful for dogs with diarrhea. Ripe bananas in particular, which have been mashed with a fork and have become slightly brown in the air, are particularly suitable here.
As for the amounts you can feed your dog, it obviously depends on how big your dog is. A small dog should not be given more than a small piece of banana. A large dog can eat half a banana or a whole banana. But please not every day. Better every 2 to 3 days or only very rarely as a special treat. But don’t overdo it, because as already mentioned, yellow bananas, in particular, contain a lot of fructose, which can lead to your dog gaining weight over time. Especially if you don’t take into account the calories supplied by the banana in your regular feeding.
Also, be careful not to give your dog banana peels. While banana peels are not inherently toxic to your dog, they may contain pesticides or block the digestive tract. To be on the safe side, bananas should therefore only be fed peeled.
Banana Snacks
Bananas can not only be given pure but prove to be an all-around talent when it comes to creating treats, biscuits, or other treats for dogs. Sliced and dried in the oven, bananas make a great on-the-go snack. But the banana is also suitable as a puree in combination with oatmeal, some water, and maybe some apple as a filling for the Kong. Or as a mash in a squeeze tube for on the go. Squashed bananas with a little flour, egg, and some oatmeal formed into cookies and baked make great treats. There are hardly any limits to the imagination, as the banana can be processed in many ways. The mix of banana and peanut butter is also popular. However, this snack has an insane amount of calories and should therefore be given very rarely and only in small quantities.