At A Glance
Dogs can eat the bright, pink flesh of a watermelon; however, they would need to remove the seeds and rind. This refreshing fruit is low in calories and rich in water content and nutrients, like vitamins A, B6, and C and potassium. But remember:
Last Updated on: July 6, 2023
There is probably nothing more naturally refreshing than a bite of watermelon on a hot day. As a dog owner, you’ve probably wondered, can dogs eat watermelons?
The answer is a big, fat YES! In addition to being refreshing, the flesh of the watermelon is a powerhouse that is low in calories and loaded with nutrients like vitamins A, B6 and C and potassium. The fruit is 92% water, has only about 50 calories a cup, and has zero fat and cholesterol.
However, a couple of terms and conditions apply.
Firstly, watermelon seeds could cause intestinal blockage in dogs. Be sure to get rid of them while feeding your dog. Secondly, remove the rind, as it can cause gastrointestinal upset.
It’s important to note that the fruit is also high in sugar, which means feeding it regularly can trigger the risk of diabetes.
“Watermelon can be seen as some of the tasty and nutritious treats for your dogs. But be sure to take out all the seeds from it in order to keep them safe from any serious problems that can cause your dogs with health issues.” – Richard Carver, Dog Lover.
As a low-calorie fruit, watermelon provides a number of health benefits to dogs, including:
Feeding watermelon to your stubborn dog is a great way to keep them hydrated, especially on hot days. Boosting dehydration levels inadvertently prevents a variety of health issues. This applies to humans, too.
Watermelons contain antioxidants such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and lycopene that can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This protects dogs from diseases and infections.
Watermelons are also rich in vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining good eyesight, healthy skin, and a strong immune system.
Anything fed in excess is bad, and watermelons are no exception. Here are other situations when watermelon may not be appropriate for your dog.
The seeds and rind of watermelon contain a hard outer layer that can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause intestinal blockage. Moreover, consuming too many seeds can even lead to intestinal obstruction, which can be life-threatening. The seeds and rind of the watermelon also contain small amounts of citrulline, a compound that causes digestive problems if ingested in large quantities.
According to James Johnson, Pet Nurturer, “Rinds are not poisonous for your dog, but it is hard to digest. It can cause a blockage in the digestive canal leading to other problems.”
Some dogs may be sensitive to the sugar content in watermelons and may develop issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, and an upset stomach.
Watermelons may not be ideal if your dog has a history of digestive problems. I would suggest starting with a small amount and monitoring your dog’s reaction.
Dogs are more sensitive to the harmful pesticides and chemicals sprayed on fruits than humans. Always choose organic produce and clean the fruit thoroughly before feeding them to dogs. Again, feed your pooch in moderation.
Loop in your vet before you decide to add watermelons to your pet’s diet.
There are many ways to feed your four-legged friend watermelons. The most common ways to feed dogs watermelon include:
You can also try some creative watermelon recipes for your dog.
Blend watermelon and low-fat yogurt or unsweetened almond milk. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray or silicone popsicle molds and freeze for several hours.
These frozen treats are perfect for hot summer days and can help cool and hydrate your dog.
Cut watermelon into small pieces and mix with cooked and shredded chicken. It can be served as a healthy and refreshing treat or as a meal topper.
Cut watermelon into small pieces and top each piece with a small amount of natural, unsweetened peanut butter. Freeze the bites for several hours and serve them as a treat.
Blend together watermelon, a ripe banana, and low-fat yogurt or unsweetened almond milk to make a healthy and tasty smoothie for your dogs.
The amount of watermelon your dog can have will depend on your dog’s size, age, and overall health. However, watermelon or any other “human” food should not account for more than 10% of your dog’s diet. This percentage reduces even more for older dogs due to a slower metabolism and reduced energy levels.
It is always best to start small, observe, and gradually increase the amount over time.
No, watermelons are not known to be toxic to dogs. However, the seeds and rind should be removed, as they can cause intestinal blockage, particularly in dogs of a smaller breed.
Also, the seed and rind contain citrulline, a compound that causes digestive problems in dogs when ingested in large quantities. Some dogs may be sensitive to the sugar content, so always be vigilant.
Yes, since watermelons are primarily made up of water, they’re easy for dogs to digest. That said, not all dogs may have the same reaction.
Overconsumption can lead to digestive upset and present symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. The best time to feed your dogs watermelon is during summer.
Unfortunately, yes. Too much of any food can cause diarrhea, and watermelons are no exception. And since watermelons are made up of 92% water, the chances of your dog suffering from diarrhea are highly likely.
Keep treats like watermelon down to 10% or less of your dog’s diet. Moreover, avoid artificial watermelon-flavored dog food and sweets.
Organic, seedless varieties of watermelons are the best for dogs. When looking for watermelons as a treat, it is best to pick a ripe one that is free of any bruises or cuts.
This will ensure that the fruit is sweet and juicy and will be less likely to cause digestive problems.
Although watermelon rind is not toxic, it’s not recommended not to it to your dogs, cooked or raw. The rind can be difficult for dogs to digest and may cause digestive upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea.
Additionally, the rind can lodge in the dog’s intestines, causing an intestinal blockage.
If your dog has accidentally eaten watermelon rind or seeds, it’s important to monitor them for any signs of digestive upset.
While some dogs may experience mild symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, others may not show any signs of discomfort. Either way, contact your vet. They can guide you to manage the situation and ensure that your dog stays healthy.
Meet Paul, a devoted dog dad to the delightful French Bulldog, Cofi. With a flair for humor and a deep understanding of Frenchie quirks, Paul brings a lighthearted touch to his writings. His relatable stories and practical insights are a blend of laughter and valuable advice and resonate with fellow dog owners.
Through his words, Paul aims to celebrate the joys and challenges of being a dedicated pet parent, reminding you that life is simply better with a four-legged, snorting sidekick by your side.
