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Since many people like to share what they eat with their four-legged companions, it’s important to know what’s safe and what’s not before giving it to a dog as a treat.
Luckily, mangoes are generally safe as long as they are prepared a certain way and fed in moderation. In fact, they may even provide some healthy nutritional benefits. However, mango should only be used as an occasional treat and not as a regular part of your dog’s diet.
Mangoes are a sweet type of fruit that originally comes from South Asia. They have bright yellow-orange flesh that can be eaten raw, juiced or cooked in a variety of ways and are popular around the world.
Mango is the national fruit in India and Pakistan and the national tree in Bangladesh. This is partly due to the versatility and popularity of the sweet, leathery-skinned fruit. Popular dishes with mango include chutney, various drinks, salsas, jams and salads. They are widely available in grocery stores and usually have yellow skin when ripe.
Like many fruits, mangoes contain a variety of nutrients. One mango only contains about 60 calories but is full of beneficial vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in vitamin C. This is good for supporting the body’s immune system and promoting healthy growth and repair functions.
Mango pulp also contains various carotenoids, including beta-carotene, which can act as an antioxidant, and is also rich in vitamin B9 (folate).
This fruit is also high in water and fiber, so when fed in moderation, it can help support a healthy digestive system for your dog.
Mango allergies are uncommon in humans, but are extremely rare in dogs. There is usually nothing to worry about if you give your dog a piece of mango fruit. However, if the mango is not peeled or your dog swallows the core of the fruit, there may be cause for concern.
Mangoes are called drupes or drupes and have a large stone in their center. This pit contains small amounts of toxic cyanide, so of course this should be avoided.
Excessive amounts of mango can cause vomiting and diarrhea, just like any food in large enough quantities. Therefore, this fruit should always be introduced gradually and fed in moderation. Because they are naturally high in sugar, dogs with diabetes and overweight should only be given very small amounts. The vast majority of companion dogs today are considered overweight, and if this applies to your pet, it’s better to find an alternative, low-calorie treat. If you are unsure whether your dog is overweight, ask your veterinarian or check one of the following sources:
Mango peels are extremely tough and may not break down in your dog’s stomach. The pit or pit of a mango can cause constipation or pose a choking hazard to your dog.
If your dog accidentally gets mango peels or the mango seed, they can easily pass through your dog’s digestive tract, but you should monitor him for any changes in behavior. If lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhea occur, contact your veterinarian.
If your dog is a big mango fan, you can dehydrate the fruit to offer a chewier, crushed, longer-lasting (albeit higher-calorie) treat that can be used during training. Once dried like this, they can be stored in the bag without getting dirty or getting soggy. You can also freeze mango strips or blend them into a smooth popsicle using an ice cube tray. This is a perfect option as a cooling, hydrating and refreshing treat on a hot day.
Ripe mangoes can also be added as part of the ingredient combination for a stuffed Kong or other treat-dispensing toys. It can be mashed and mixed with other pet-friendly fillings like peanut butter (make sure it’s a variety without xylitol) or added to the ingredients for dog-friendly cookies.
By peeling your ripe mango and removing the pit, you can safely share a small piece of this delicious and nutritious fruit with your dog.
It’s not just mango that can be a healthy and nutritious treat for dogs. There are many other fruits and vegetables that can sometimes be fed to your dog in moderation, but avoid feeding lots of treats on a regular basis or using the dog food as a topping. A balanced dog food should be formulated to contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals that your dog needs. Adding too many treats can upset the important nutritional balance. Additionally, there are some vegetables and fruits that should be avoided entirely. Onions, garlic, avocado, and grapes are just a few examples of fruits and vegetables that are toxic foods for dogs. If you are unsure, ask your veterinarian before giving your dog anything new.