Plantains are a type of fruit closely related to bananas, which are commonly eaten cooked rather than raw. But can dogs eat plantains, or are they toxic to our canine friends?
Can dogs eat plantains?
Dogs can eat a small amount of plantain, but only if it has been cooked first. This unusual fruit has some health benefits for dogs, and if prepared correctly it can make a tasty and rewarding treat.
As with all fruits, there are some things you need to be aware of before feeding plantains to dogs. Let’s take a look at the advantages of feeding plantain to your pooch, and how to prepare this fruit to make it safe for dogs to eat.
What are the health benefits of plantains?
The dietary fiber in plantains will help to balance blood sugar levels as well as maintain good digestive function. In animals that are exercised regularly, feeding small amounts of plantain as a treat will help assist in fat reduction and the development of muscle mass.
Plantains also contain antioxidants, known to boost your dog’s immune system and reduce cellular aging. They are also packed full of vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium and magnesium.
This combination of nutrients is effective at fending off infection, as well as having potent anti-inflammatory effects. These fruits also contain amino acids, tannins, and mucilage, that help to facilitate muscle strength and recovery.
What should I be aware of when offering plantains to my dog?
Raw plantain should never be fed to dogs, as it is tough to chew and difficult to digest. Plantains should always be baked or boiled, and then sliced into smaller bite-size pieces for your dog.
These fruits are high in starch, sugar, and carbohydrates, so feeding plantain to your dog will significantly increase their daily calorie intake. It is not a good idea to feed plantain to dogs that are less active or prone to weight gain, or those that suffer from pancreatitis.
Never feed fried plantain to dogs, as the oil can lead to digestive upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.
As with all fruits, plantain should only be fed to dogs in moderate amounts. Stick to two or three bite-size pieces at a time, and your dog can safely enjoy this delicious treat several times a week.
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