

Can Dogs Eat Avocado?

Avocados are rich in nutrients and contain a great source of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids, and more. On the other hand, avocados also contain a toxin called persin that can be found in the avocado's pit, leaves, and skin. It is unclear how poisonous persin is to dogs, so it's best to keep the pit, leaves, and skin out of reach from your pet. In addition to possible toxin ingestion, the pit may also cause an accidental choking or an intestinal blockage in your dog. However, the fruit itself it safe and even healthy for dogs (and cats) to eat.

Avocado benefits for dogs

Avocados contain many beneficial nutrients that can give your dog a health boost. The vitamins and fiber help with digestive health. The fatty acids within avocados are great for your dog's coat, keeping it strong, glossy, and soft. It also helps support good bone and skin health, eyesight, and both the nervous and circulatory systems.

What to watch out for

Although avocados are a healthy treat for dogs, they should be given in moderation. Too much avocado can unbalance their diet. Because avocados contain high-fat content, too much consumption can lead to pancreatitis. If your dog does get a hold of the skin, pit, or leaves, symptoms of persin poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

Do not give your dog avocado products, such as guacamole. Generally, guacamole contains other ingredients like seasonings and onions that should never be fed to your dog. In fact, onions can cause your dog to go into kidney failure.

Foods that your dog can snack on

Sharing food with your dog is fun, not to mention how difficult it is to deny those big puppy dog eyes. There are many foods that are safe for them to eat. These foods include bananas, apples, eggs, carrots, tomatoes, pineapple, watermelon, broccoli, cantaloupe, strawberries, blueberries, and more. However, there are many foods that you should keep away from your dog to prevent poisoning or gastrointestinal upset. These foods include grapes, onions, chocolate, cherries, grapefruit, limes, and more.