Dates are a delicious treat that many of us regularly enjoy, and you might be wondering if it is OK to share a date or two with your canine friend. But can dogs eat dates, or are they toxic to dogs?
Can dogs eat dates?
The good news is that dogs can eat dates, and many dogs will enjoy snacking on this tasty fruit! When prepared and fed correctly, dates can be a delicious and healthy snack for your buddy.
Dates are packed with nutritional benefits, but, as with all fruit, there are certain things to take into consideration before feeding dates to your dog.
What are the health benefits of dates?
Dates are a sweet and tasty fruit that many dogs will enjoy eating. Luckily, they are also highly nutritious too!
The high fiber content of dates means that they are great for maintaining digestive health, particularly in dogs that are prone to constipation.
They are also packed full of natural sugars, making them the perfect energy-boosting snack for very active dogs.
Dates contain high levels of vitamins A, B, and C, as well as potassium and calcium. These help to maintain heart and eye health, and also reduce the effects of arthritis in elderly dogs.
What should I be aware of when offering dates to my dog?
Whilst your dog would quite probably eat a whole bunch of dates, these delicious fruits should only be fed in moderation.
Too many dates can have a laxative effect, giving your dog a nasty stomach upset and diarrhea. This can be very uncomfortable, so stick to just one or two dates at a time!
Dates are also very high in sugar, which can also lead to digestive problems. Sugary fruits should not be fed to dogs that are prone to obesity or suffer from conditions such as diabetes or dental problems.
The pits, or stones, in dates should never be fed to dogs. These can be a potential choking hazard or may cause an intestinal blockage.
Maven is all about proactive pet care. Be your best friend’s best friend by giving them 24/7, high-quality, industry-leading vet care to improve their mental health, physical health and more. No more frantic googling or unneeded stressful visits to the vet – Maven helps you save hundreds while also ensuring your pet lives the best life possible. Get your kit now!
