The first year of a puppy involves continuous growth and requires a long time to eat, sleep and play. Because your tiny body is consuming calories like crazy, you have to eat all day to stay healthy. This program does not usually last a lifetime and tends to decline by six months of age.

We recommend giving your puppies food three meals in a day till they are between eight and ten weeks old, and reducing this to tow times in a day until the rapid growth stage is complete, which for a small dog can range from 8 months to two years for a large breed.

Eating like a big boy

If your little pup is still nursing his mother, he may not be aware of how often he eats. By around the first month’s birthday, you should be ready to eat again for older children, which usually includes serving soft, moist foods to make it easier to murmur. This soft porridge, served three or four times a day, is eliminated from breast milk in a few weeks.

Harder foods are eaten gradually every day, so by around two months of age, you should be able to grind your puppy’s food without any problems. This gradual introduction to solid foods also helps prevent an upset stomach because it is so different from the all-liquid diet he was eating with his mom.

Three full meals

Once your puppy comfortably eats solid food, your job is to feed him happily. Some people like to let their dogs feed for free, which necessarily means that they always skip a bowl of food and let the puppy decide when and how much to eat.

While it’s easier, it can lead to problems with indoor exercise and obesity, as your pup has to go to the bathroom after a meal and may snack when bored.

If you eat three meals of the same size throughout the day, you are getting adequate amounts of food and calories regularly, rather than eating small amounts of occasional bites here and there.

What age is a dog no longer a puppy?

Puppies mature and become adults at different times, meaning that large breeds of dog will mature after about 15 months into an adult, but the smaller dog breeds will mature for only nine months.

Therefore, you will need to feed a larger breed of dog that is specifically formulated for puppy food for much longer than a smaller breed of dog.

Ask a dog parent, and he or she will tell you that the puppies will grow up in no time. While this is true, the dog’s transition from childhood to adulthood is not that easy. Understanding your fur baby’s growth process is important as it will help you meet her needs. Knowing your dog’s level of maturity is key to providing her with the nutrition and lifestyle she needs to become healthy dogs.

When is a puppy a dog?

Each stage of your dog’s life is important to her overall development and requires extra care from you. As in humans, dog growth is divided into several stages:

Puberty

Physical maturity

Emotional maturity

The breed of your dog and his/her individual needs affects their emotional maturity. The good news about your dog is that when the dog grow, you will get to know your dog better than anyone. This will make it easier for you to understand where they are in terms of development and help them every step of the way.

Puberty

Most dogs can breed by the age of 6 months, which is usually called maturity in sexuality. While the six-month-old dog is still both a physical and emotional puppy, now is the right time to spay or neuter her if you are looking to avoid unwanted pregnancy. Yes, raising puppies is now a reality!

However, playback is not the only problem here. If you want to avoid behaviors like wandering or tagging, six months of age is the best time to start grooming your puppy. At this stage, your genitalia is fully developed and can be sterilized.

Physical maturity

Physical maturity is more of a grey area, as it depends on the breed and size of your dog. It is also independent of the maturity of the behavior. At this point, you may find that your dog is fully grown but still acts like a puppy. It would help if you also had a lot of calories and a lot of daily exercises to stay happy. Welcome to your adolescence!

If your puppy reminded you of himself when you were a teenager, know that this can be a difficult time. Be patient and consistent. With clear limits and expectations, your puppy will grow into an adult soon.

Emotional maturity

Once your puppy reaches emotional maturity, she is a dog in her own right. This stage of your life is very clear, and you will quickly notice the difference. Your dog will stop behaving like a puppy or a teenager. By the second year, your dog will be more focused and calmer.

As with humans, this is a point in your dog’s life where hormones balance out. They listen, respond better and understand even the social cues that previously flew overhead. At this point, you could say that your puppy is now a dog.

When to switch puppy to dog food

When should I stop feeding my dog puppy food? Well, the switch to adult dog food should be done when they are physically mature. This milestone will vary based on the breed and weight of your dog. Once your puppy physically grows into an adult dog, her nutritional needs will change, and you will have to adapt accordingly.

Puppy feeding chart by weight age
(images from purina.com)

A puppy’s feeding schedule will help ensure consistency and predictability for the new dog. A puppy feeding table establishes healthy eating habits. The right balance of delicious, semi-moist, and moist food creates variety and the right nutrition for your pup. Freshwater is always important. The measured amount of your puppy’s feeding schedule is a great way to show he’s an alpha when using treats and general feeding as training opportunities.

Puppy feeding table

All packaged puppy food has a table that lists the amount of food for a dog of a specific weight and age. Most puppy feeding tables also indicate how many times a day they should be fed.

FAQ

– Is it cruel to feed a dog once a day?

Most of the people who own dogs tend to feed them once in a day. However, this is a cruel practice because dogs digest food faster and makes it want to eat again during the day. Most people think that a single meal in a day is sufficient for a dog but this is not the case.

The stomach of a normal dog empties in 6 to 8 hours. However, if you feed your dog in the morning, he will be very hungry at the end of the day! Health problems can also be a reason to eat more often.

– How many times a day should a dog poop?

There are some basic rules for the frequency of bowel movements. In general, a dog should have a bowel movement at least once a day. Many people regularly walk two or three times a day.

But if you have a dog that defecates more than three times a day, don’t panic! So long as the stool of the dog is firm and bloodless, this is probably usual for him. Small dogs, such as puppies, often defecate more than three times a day due to their high metabolism, high food intake, and clean intestines.

When the dog poops severally in a day and that his stools are liquid, unformed, or blood-based, take a look. Diarrhea not only dehydrates your puppy, but there is also the possibility that he will not feel comfortable if his poop is irregular. Try to fix things by putting your dog on a makeshift diet of chicken and rice or cheese and rice. If he defecates excessively for more than 24 to 48 hours, contact your veterinarian.

Conclusion

As you can see, raising a dog is like raising a child. The care and attention that the dogs need to stay healthy and strong and the feeding schedule is important. Even if you don’t get any advice or gibberish, the dog’s maturation process is still important. From puppyhood to adulthood, your dog’s needs change, and you must adapt accordingly. Taking into account all aspects of your growth is important to building a healthy relationship that will continue to thrive over time.

There are many healthy remedies for puppies. Rewards should always be earned and used sparingly. Add the calories he eats so that the dog does not exceed the number of calories he should eat for his weight and age. Choose foods that are whole and easy to chew. Semi-wet treatments are usually the best for a quick fix.

The post Useful Tips on Feeding Your Dog Puppy Food first appeared on PetXU.com.

Can Dogs Eat Bananas?

This is one of the fruits enjoyed by humans that can be safely shared with our dogs. This fruit is soft and sweet so your dog will not have a hard time chewing it.

Bananas are rich in potassium and other kinds of vitamins. Vet doctors actually recommend bananas as good forms of dog treats because they are zero in fat and do not contain sodium. YES, your pet dog can eat bananas because they are a great choice for an occasional doggy dessert.

Are Bananas Good for Dogs?

YES, bananas are good for dogs and these are the nutrients that they can get from eating this delightful fruit:

• Potassium:

A balanced amount of potassium is required for your dog’s vital organs to function normally. Not only that, potassium works by improving the muscles.

Potassium also helps in the digestion of the nutrients in your dog’s food. And potassium is also responsible for your pet dog’s bone density alongside calcium and phosphorus.

If you are wondering which fruit is high in potassium, then a banana fruit is the winner in this category.

You can also give your dog potassium supplements like VET K-Cit Chewable Potassium Citrate Tablets.

• Vitamin B6:

Do you think that your pet dog gets the right amount of vitamin B6 from their daily diet? If not, bananas can add up to their daily Vitamin B6 requirements.

Puppies require vitamin B6 for proper protein synthesis. This provides a healthy growth of your puppies. This B vitamin helps to maintain a proper balance of potassium and sodium in the body of your pet dog as it gets older. In turn, it encourages healthy red blood cell production and brain function option.

Sweet bananas are also great sources of Vitamin B6.

• Vitamin C:

Not only is this vitamin good for humans, but it is also good for your dog as well. It has many advantages, but the biggest one is that it keeps the immune system of your dog in good condition. This means less susceptible to diseases such as the kennel cough.

In addition, Vitamin C is responsible for iron absorption, tissue and cell damage repair and for healthy skin and coat.

Your dog can beef-up its Vitamin C load by occasionally having bananas.

• Manganese:

Your dog needs this mineral for energy production, protein and carbs metabolization, and fatty acids. Manganese also has a vital role to play in maintaining your dog’s cartilage and bones. If you wonder if the meat is a manganese source, then you’re wrong. It is found in fruits such as banana.

• Fiber:

Bananas contain both the soluble and the insoluble fibers. The soluble fibers work by maintaining the normal glucose level while the insoluble fibers work by regulating your pet dog’s bowel movement.

Therefore, basing on the different types of vitamins and minerals that bananas give, it is safe to say that bananas are good for dogs.

Bananas Are Also Good for Your Dog’s Tummy Issues:

If your dog has an upset tummy, then you can give it some fresh banana servings. It will help calm the upset tummy by simply mashing some bananas and adding this to your dog’s diet.

But if your pooch has not eaten a banana all its life, it is best to give it a small serving to see if it will have a negative effect. Any type of new food can cause gas so it is best to give it a little portion only.

Are Bananas Bad for Dogs?

There are a few cautions that you need to know regarding feeding your dog with a banana. These are the following:

• Do not give your pet dog the banana peel. Though the peels are not exactly toxic, but there is a chance of getting choked since the banana peel is difficult to digest.

• Bananas are not free of sugar. Like any other type of fruit, bananas have fructose, and that’s why you should give it only in small quantities. This is particularly important if your pet dog has diabetes. And if your dog tries to shed a few pounds, give in moderation to bananas.

• Giving puppies bananas is not really bad but it is safer if you will seek its Vet’s approval. This is because bananas have sugar which may not be a part of a puppy’s diet. In addition, puppies may feel full after eating a banana and as a result, they may not eat their regular diet.

• If you give too many bananas, it can cause constipation.

• High levels of potassium or Hyperkalemia may result in heart problems.

Bananas are good for dogs but do not get overzealous, feed your dog the correct amount of bananas only.

Can Puppies Have Bananas?

As I said a while ago, puppies may eat bananas, but it is necessary to seek approval from a vet. The fructose in bananas can upset the stomach of the pup. Bananas aren’t toxic, so make sure that the amount is minimal if you really want to give your puppy a banana.

Are Bananas Safe for Dogs?

YES, bananas are safe for dogs provided that you give it with the correct proportion only. If you overdo it, too many bananas can lead to constipation, potassium level increase, obesity, and sugar level increase.

Bananas are great treats for dogs, but they should not be used as a substitute for the diet of your dog. The small and toy breed dogs can eat three small slices of banana every day on average. While medium to large breed dogs can eat every day an average of half-sized banana.

But if your dog is active throughout the day or runs longer miles per day, then it is safe to feed it with one whole piece of banana.

Give just one small slice of banana for puppies and don’t do it daily. It’s enough every two days. But, as mentioned above, it’s better to get a vet doctor’s expert advice.

What Are The Signs that Your Dog Ate Too Many Bananas?

Your dog may show a sign of having a difficult time passing its bowel. Other symptoms are vomiting and tummy discomfort.

Did you know?…

Bananas belong to the berry family. The fruit berries that you know like blueberries and raspberries are actually closely related to bananas.

These fruits float both in freshwater and seawater, bananas are floaters. Why? Because when compared to water, bananas are less dense.

Can Your Dog Eat Banana Chips?

The dehydrated banana chips are good for your pet dog but give it moderately to your dog. There is no sugar in the dehydrated ones, but the fruit’s water content is removed and then dried.

On the other hand, if you are referring to the processed banana chips with sugar, then it is not good for your pet.

Banana chips are therefore a good snack for your dog as long as they are dried naturally and without adding any sugar and preservatives.

Can Your Dog Eat Banana Bread?

The banana bread made for human consumption is loaded with sugar and other ingredients such as nuts and chocolate chips. It’s safer if you bake a banana bread made with love for your dog, but not with sugar.

The Many Ways To Give Bananas to Your Dog:

• Banana Cake for Doggies:

2 cups of water

1 egg

2 pieces of mashed bananas

2 Tablespoons of honey or molasses

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 cups whole wheat flour

1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Then grease a cake pan that is 8 inches round or rectangular.

Mix bananas, water, egg, honey, and vanilla extract together by using an electric mixer. Add the entire wheat flour and baking powder slowly. Pour over the casserole and bake for an hour.

• Peanut Butter Banana Cookies for Doggies:

1 medium-sized banana, mashed

2 cups of rolled oats

1/3 cup of peanut butter. (Choose the one with less sugar and salt content)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place oats in a food processor until the flour consistency is reached. Embed peanut butter and banana into a ball. Cut into the shapes you want. Grease a sheet of cookies and bake for 20 minutes.

• Frozen Banana Treats for Dogs:

4 pieces of bananas

1/2 cup of peanut butter

mini cups

Peel the bananas and slice into pieces of bite-size. Freeze. Place the bananas in a food processor once frozen and mix until a creamy consistency is reached. Add the peanut butter. Place in the mini cups and then freeze again.

But if you have no time to prepare the above recipes, you can buy dog treats for your dogs like K9 Granola Factory Banana Chips Dog Treats and Harvard’s Finest Peanut Butter and Banana.

Conclusion:

Dogs love the banana taste. The good news is that having this delightful fruit is perfectly safe for them as long as you don’t allow it to eat more than it needs. Bananas are loaded with nutrients that can contribute to your pet dog’s overall health.

The post Can Dogs Have Bananas? Are Bananas Good For Dogs? Safe? Can Puppies Eat? first appeared on PetXU.com.

It is not known to many dog owners that dogs can eat yogurt. They can be given for your pooch as a treat or even for them as a quick snack. Yogurt is a delicious food for dogs and is also a common snack for them, and that is why knowing more about this dairy product is important.

If you are curious about it and you want to know more about yogurt, then never skip a single word in this article as it will surely be helpful for you – facts, benefits, and recipe – everything is here!

What exactly is yogurt?

Yogurt is also spelled as yogourt, yoghurt, or yoghourt. It is a milk product known as one of the oldest and most famous fermented foods in the world.

The word “yogurt” is a Turkish language. It is produced by milk fermentation with bacteria. How? The milk thickens when fresh milk is left in a canister with friendly bacteria. It becomes delicious, sour-taste milk. The lactic acid from the fermentation process will also act as a preservative. The fermentation additive can help cultured milk stay fresh for a longer period of time.

How to make yogurt?

Yogurt, as mentioned above, comes from the fermentation of milk. By combining milk with bacteria and allowing it culture, then yogurt is formed. This is known as a starter culture of yogurt. If you think this process is too complicated for you, you can buy a yogurt that has already been made in the market.

You can also buy a store-bought yogurt in the market if you want, other than buying an already-made yogurt. On the other hand, when you use the powdered one you will gain an advantage by knowing what ingredients are in the final product.

What are the benefits of yogurt to dogs?

Yogurt is good for digestion because it has probiotics that are good for their digestive system. This dairy product is also high in protein and calcium.

What else?

Yogurt is a healthy snack for both humans and dogs, as I mentioned earlier. It has many advantages that can be very helpful to the health of your dog. It is one of the best producers of natural calcium sources that help control or prevent certain gastrointestinal problems such as constipation, yeast infection, diarrhea, and irritable bowel movement, according to reports. It also helps to produce niacin and folic acid, both of which during pregnancy are important nutrients.

Other than that, through eating yogurt, your dog’s immune system will be improved and boosted. It is also a good source of protein for dogs. This said protein helps build muscle.

What more should you know about the benefits of yogurt to your dog?

• It gives potassium. The body of your dog will certainly improve as potassium has a key role to play in maintaining a healthy body. It keeps your nerves healthy and regulates the level of fluid in the body system of your furry friend.
• It provides calcium. Calcium helps improve your dog’s bones. It keeps them healthy and strong. 
• It provides animal protein. Animal protein has a key role in building muscle. 
• Yogurt improves the immune system of your dog. 
• This dairy product helps reduce the possibility of having a yeast infection. 
• Give him yogurt if you’re worried that your dog has high cholesterol! It controls and lowers high cholesterol levels.
• Yogurt helps improve the balance control, gluta flora, and digestion of lactose.

How much yogurt should you give to your dogs?

Sharing your yogurt to your dog is fine as long as you don’t give them too much. Remember, moderation is key. 

Give your dog about one to three tablespoons of yogurt, depending on your dog’s size. You can give it to them as a dessert or it can be given along with their meal. You can feed them or feed them several times a week.

Is yogurt good for dogs with allergies?

Some dog owners give their pet yogurt only if they have an active yeast infection or are on antibiotics. Giving him a little yogurt can help keep yeast infections away or in a manageable state if your pooch is taking antibiotics. You can also do this, but it is advisable to give yogurt as a treat it provides your dog with protein and nutrition.

What kind of yogurt should you give to your furry friend?

When feeding yogurt to your dog, make sure that it is plain and free of any additives. Natural yogurt without any sweeteners is better as it has lower levels of lactose. 

If your dog is intolerant to lactose, it is better to give them a plain Greek yogurt. Why? Because it is better and safer for dogs that are lactose intolerant. Greek yogurt has more probiotic concentrations. These probiotics are good for the intestine of your pet.

Can dogs eat yogurt: Facts you need to know

There are a lot of yogurt brands in the grocery store so I bet you are sometimes confused about which one to buy. Well, here’s what I learned about yogurt and the things about this delicious treat that you should know about.

• Yogurt can help dogs with an upset stomach. 

• If you are wondering which one you need to buy for your pooch, then the best way is to look for a yogurt product that has *CFU. Adding on, you should also look for yogurt with Live and Active Cultures. 

Note: Not all yogurts are Live and Active so beware. 

• Note that plain or natural yogurt is unlike plain Greek yogurt, all right? Yes, they’re both healthy for dogs and they provide protein and nutrients BUT, (note, there’s a but) they’re different in how the fermented milk is strained. Plain yogurt is strained twice while Greek yogurt is strained thrice.

How do you determine if the yogurt is plain or not? 

Plain yogurt is runnier. Meanwhile, Greek yogurt is thicker and has a tangier taste. 

Note: Some dog owners prefer plain Greek yogurt because unlike plain yogurt, this dairy product’s sugar has been strained away.

On the other hand, while some pet lovers prefer Greek yogurt, plain yogurt has more calcium than Greek yogurt and less saturated fats.

If your dog is on a diet, then buying a non-fat Greek yogurt is more advisable. Why? Because Greek yogurt is not helpful for an obese dog. 

Remember, you should first consult your veterinarian before you purchase yogurt. Although yogurt is good for dogs, talking to your vet is still advisable. Take a test to find out if your dog is lactose intolerant or allergic. Before buying any new food or treat, it is important to know the health condition of your dog.

Can dogs eat yogurt: Recipes you can follow

There are many ways to give yogurt to your dog. Here are some of the recipes that you can follow to make eating yogurt a lot more exciting and colorful.

Yogurt melts

What you need: Greek yogurt or regular yogurt, foil, and tray

Steps to follow:

• Use Greek yogurt or if you want to, you can strain regular yogurt to thicken it. 
• Use a bottle to create small dollops of yogurt onto a tray covered with foil.
• Once you are finished creating small dollops on the tray, freeze it. You can give it to your dog after their meal or you can use it as training snacks. 

Greek yogurt biscuits

What you need: 1 cup of quick oats, 3⁄4 cup of cornmeal, 2 cubes of crushed beef, 1⁄2 cup of lukewarm water, 1 egg, 1⁄2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1⁄2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 2 cups of whole wheat flour, 1⁄2 to 3/4 cup of water.

Steps to follow:

• Warm the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Put the ingredients (oats, crushed stock cubes and cornmeal) in a bowl and add 1⁄2 cup of warm water. Stir it to moisten. Then let it stand for ten minutes.
• After waiting, add the yogurt, the beaten egg, and the shredded cheddar cheese into the bowl then stir it. 
• After blending it well, stir it in flour. Add water so that you can make a rollable dough. 
• Roll out the dough to a lightly floured surface. Use a dog bone cookie cutter to cut it.
• Put the cut cookies on a large baking sheet and bake them for half an hour (350 degrees Fahrenheit).
• After baking it, let it cool down then store it in a covered basin. 

 Frosted yogurt

What you need: Peanut butter, flavoring, food color, ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, 2 to 3 teaspoons of milk, and ½ tapioca flour.

Steps to follow:

• Apply the mixture of yogurt to your dog treat. If you want, you can add a little flavor and food color to the yogurt.
• Once you are finished spreading the yogurt mix, leave it dry overnight on a paper wax or in the refrigerator. 

Final thoughts about giving yogurt to dogs

Yogurt is good for dogs, as I stated. It provides dogs with many health benefits, but you should always bear in mind that it should be given in moderation. Too much is bad. Prioritizing the health of your dog is important, but remember that every new food you give them should be carefully checked to keep them safe and healthy. 

The post Can Dogs Eat Yogurt: Facts, Benefits, Recipe and Is Yogurt Good For Dogs? first appeared on PetXU.com.

What Is A Plum?

Plums are part of the Prunus genus. Its close relatives are nectarine, peach, and almond. These fruits are known as drupe fruits, meaning, they all have seeds that are surrounded by a hard stone or pit.

The distinguishing characteristic of plum is its color that comes in different shades. There’s red, purple, green, orange, pink, and yellow. It can also be either big or small.

Not only do the plums burst with flavors, but they also have nutritional benefits. That’s probably why you want your dog to have this fruit as well.

Can Dogs Eat Fruits?

YES, but not all kinds of fruits. For dog lovers like you, it’s common to give some food whenever your dog begs. What’s good for you, after all, might be good for them too, right? But wait, it’s not always the case.

There are some fruits that can be given as treats, but at the same time, there are those that have to be off-limits for your pooch. The grapes and avocados are good examples. These fruits are totally bad for your dog consumption.

Good fruits for them are banana, apple, blueberries, mango, among others. Now the question is “can dogs eat plums?”.

Are Plums Good for Dogs?

YES, but with some limitations, plums are good for dogs. Don’t give it a huge plum serving and you shouldn’t let it munch on the whole plum. In short, the way to do this is moderation. Plums do not only taste good but it is also bursting with so many benefits such as the following:

• Plums are a good way to beef-up on fiber:

Do you ever wonder if your fur baby needs fiber like you? Many dog lovers think dogs are carnivores but they aren’t. In the wild, both animals and plants are eaten by dogs, making them omnivores. They get the roughage from the plants which is their natural fiber source.

So yes, your fur baby, just like you, also requires dietary fiber and plum is a good way to add fiber to its diet.

Fiber makes its bowel movement regular. It will also prevent the problem of constipation and cancer.

You may also want to consider giving fiber capsules such as the Virbac Vetasyl Fiber Capsules.

• Plums will make those bones stronger:

This sweet and tangy fruit bursts with vitamin K. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that works with calcium to strengthen the bones of your fur baby.

Dogs prone to arthritis require vitamin K as a means of preventing such a debilitating medical problem. You can add additional supplements such as K-Plus Potassium Citrate Plus Cranberry besides vitamin K rich dog supplements.

• Plums help diabetic fur babies:

Do you have a diabetic pooch? Perhaps the nagging question in your mind right now is ‘if plums are safe for your pooch to eat?’. The answer is yes but in small quantity only.

Plums are sweet, but they are fiber-loaded. What fiber does is slow down glucose absorption, which is good for any diabetic pet.

And, as fiber makes you feel full, it discourages your diabetic pooch from eating a lot. You should regulate your diabetic pooch’s diet in order to avoid shooting up its sugar.

So, yes, even if your dog is diabetic, you can give it a small portion of plum and other kinds of fiber-rich food like carrots and broccoli.

• Plums plump up its immune system:

Vitamin C is abundant in this fruit. We know this vitamins have many wonders and one of them makes the body harder and more resistant to infections.

Vitamin C is also a cure to many skin ailments like hotspots.

• Plums are rich in copper:

Do you ever wonder how to make the coat of your dog beautiful and shiny? Then add the copper to its diet. Your dog’s food contains the right percentage of copper, but by adding a few copper-rich dog treats like a plum, you can boost it.

Copper will not only contribute to your dog’s lovely coat, but it will also make its bones and tissues in good condition.

• Plums are potassium-rich fruit:

Potassium makes the organs of your dog work well. A balanced potassium level benefits the kidneys, liver, and heart. The digestive system will also work well if there is no potassium deficiency.

Now that you know the nutritional contents of plums, then YES, it is safe to say that plums are safe for your pooch to eat. BUT…

You should only feed it with fresh plums. The dried plums are not advisable because these already contain ingredients like sugar and preservatives.

How Do You Serve Plums to Your Dog?

You recognize the risks involved with chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Sadly, many farmers use these chemicals to prevent the infestation of insects. That’s why you’ve got to wash the plum very well. Just use clean water to clean the fruit. 

Then slice the fruit and remove the pit immediately. Then chop it up and give it as a summertime treat to your pooch.

What about Dried Plums and Prunes?

Though these are not totally bad for them the sugar and other ingredients are not exactly healthy. Adding on extra pounds can be an issue so you might as well stay away from dried plums.

Another thing is that prunes are sticky, so some particles can be left between the teeth of your dog. This can only make your pooch uncomfortable. Eating prunes can also lead to dental problems.

When Are Plums Bad for Dogs?

So what are the precautions you need to know? Slowly introducing new food to your dog is a good practice. I know you’re quite excited to give plum to your dog, but its digestive system isn’t the same as yours. The fruit may overwhelm her tummy. Try to give it a little slice just to avoid stomach upsetting.

There are three side-effects that can happen if you feed your dog with plums:

• Be prepared for some mess around your house if you were overzealous and you gave too many plums. Your fur baby is very likely to have diarrhea and vomiting bouts. Expect its health to improve in a day or two, but if not, you’d better take it to the Vet to avoid the dehydration problem.

• You forgot to remove the pits or the stones. You may find the pit safe for you, but it’s poison for your pooch. It got cyanide. Although poisoning your dog will take quite a few plum pits, but will you risk your pooch’s life? So, even if it’s just a single pit, remove it immediately.

• The pit can also cause choking. Not only that, the plum pit has sharp edges that can damage the esophagus and the intestinal lining.

What Happens If Your Dog Ate Too Many Plum Pits?

Since the pits of the plum are dangerous, here is what to expect in case of ‘ accident. ‘ This is especially true if you have a plum tree in your backyard and you have forgotten to clean the fallen fruits on the ground. 

• Muscles tremors
• Lameness
• Severe diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pains
• Reddening of gums
• Tremors
• Mouth foaming
• Coma
• Death

Taking your fur baby to the Vet is a matter of urgency if you suspect he’s eaten a huge number of plum pits. This is a life-threatening scenario so you have to act fast. 

How is Plum Poisoning Treated?

• Detoxification to flush-out the cyanide from its system.
• Observation and hospital confinement are necessary to monitor the condition of the dog. It will be provided with oxygen and intravenous fluid and other forms of care.

Recovery from Plum Poisoning:

The recovery of your dog depends on how many plum pits it has eaten and the timeliness of the therapy. If you could rush it to the Vet, then there’s a very high chance of recovery.

What are the Causes of Plum Poisoning?

• Amygdalin is a substance that releases cyanide to a dog’s bloodstream.
• Cyanogen is one of the most dangerous forms of natural toxins.
• Hydrogen cyanide
• Prunasin

Are Plums Seasonal?

Yes, plums are seasonal and it is abundant from May to October. You can give fruits that are as healthy as plums during those times when plums are not available. Bananas and blueberries are examples.

You may also want to buy dog treats that contain all the natural goodness of fruits and vegetables like the Doggie Palate, All Natural Dog Cookies, Fruit Veggie and Oats.

Another good product to be considered is the Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Duck Recipe with Plum Jerky Dog Treats. As its main ingredient, is made from duck plus the juiciness of fresh plums and sweet potatoes. Your dog will definitely fall in love with these dog treats ‘ taste and texture.

Conclusion

To answer the question, “can dogs eat plums?”…the answer is YES,  FOR AS LONG AS YOU REMOVE THE PITS.

Plums are very nutritious for your fur baby. It’s stuffed with many kinds of vitamins and minerals that your dog can take advantage of. However, what you need to keep in mind is that plums are given only as occasional treats and should not be part of its daily diet.

The post Can Dogs Eat Plums? Are Plums Good For Dogs and When Are Plums Bad For Dogs? first appeared on PetXU.com.

Fortunately, oatmeal is something that you can safely share with your pooch in moderation. In fact, oats can be a means of helping your dog lose weight and keep a shiny coat.

It can even be a great carbohydrate replacement in the diet of your pooch by giving your dog the recommended amount of oatmeal. While you can easily investigate the oatmeal serving suitable for your dog, it would be better to ask your veterinarian for advice just to be on the safe side.

Nutritional Value of Oats

Oats have a long history of benefits to both humans and animals, whether taken orally or topically. That’s why a lot of natural products have oats as ingredients. Shampoos, capsules and topical ointments are among the examples. Oats are also known to have healing properties apart from being nutritious.

Typically, dogs with grain or wheat allergies do well with oats as an alternative carbohydrate source. Oatmeal is also known as a food rich in good nutrients and low in bad ingredients. For example, high content of the following healthy substances can be found in oatmeal:

• Soluble Fiber: Usually this is what keeps the heart health in check, as it helps lower the cholesterol levels in the body. Fiber also provides relief for dogs dealing with gastrointestinal problems. If your dog is overweight at the moment, fiber will help him to feel filled much faster and thus manage his appetite.
• Vitamins and Fatty Acids: Oatmeal is rich in B vitamins such as pantothenic acid, iron, folate, manganese, zinc, and linoleic acid fatty acids. All these nutrients together serve as excellent coat enhancers and boosters of energy. This is why the main ingredients of many dog shampoos and conditioners are oats. Additionally, oats are great mood stabilizers, so with moderate consumption, you ‘re bound to have a healthy and happy dog.
• Protein: While protein is usually associated with meat, you might take it as a pleasant surprise that oats also contain protein. That’s what helps keep your pet healthy. This also helps him combat various infections and diseases. The good news is that oatmeal protein quality is almost the same as soy, egg, and milk protein, making it a good replacement for other reliable sources of protein.

On the other hand, oatmeal is low in:

• Gluten: Oatmeal contains a bit of gluten, but it doesn’t have a significant amount like wheat does.
• GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms): Oatmeal isn’t grown with the help of GMOs, so you can be sure that it’s completely natural.

Additionally, oats also have herbal healing properties, such as:

• Antispasmodic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Diuretic
• Stimulant
• Hormonal aid
• Digestive aid

As you can see, oats can be useful in a variety of circumstances. The key is to learn how to use oatmeal the right way for your dog’s health maintenance.

The Benefits of Feeding Oats to Your Dog

Listed below are a few other reasons why oatmeal is a good food choice even for our canine family members:

• Wheat Substitute: Many animals tend to have allergies to wheat and gluten, so oatmeal can be a safe and healthy alternative.
• Improved Circulation: Oatmeal stimulates your dog’s systems to produce more RBCs (red blood cells).
• Digestive System Stabilizer: The fiber in oatmeal can help to control the digestion of your dog. If constipation, gassy stomach, or diarrhea is the problem for your dog, oatmeal can help.
• Better Skin Condition: Oatmeal shampoos, soaps, and baths are typically used for alleviating skin itchiness in dogs.

What Kind of Oatmeal Can Be Given to Dogs?

Human Oatmeal products come in a variety of flavors. You should stick to the plain oatmeal flavors once you have decided to feed your dog some oatmeal. Do not choose the flavored ones because they may contain additives that are not safe for your pooch.

Go for organic or whole-grain oatmeal products because they are generally more nutritious than regular oatmeal products. You can also be sure they’re safer because they’re less likely to get rid by chemicals or pesticides. Always check the ingredient list and make sure it does not contain sugars and other unnecessary flavours, which may be bad for your pooch.

Although plain oatmeal is bland by human standards, you shouldn’t bother adding salt or sugar to your dog’s serving. Milk is also out of the picture because you wouldn’t want your pooch to suffer from lactose intolerance.

How Should You Feed Oats to Your Pooch?

If you are going to give oatmeal to your dog, you can give it in cooked oatmeal form or in uncooked rolled oats form. However, for better results, stick with the cooked version instead. That’s because raw or uncooked oats are harder to digest, and may therefore cause more harm than good.

When cooking oats, you should use only water instead of milk for preparation since dogs are known to be sensitive to lactose. Once you have finished cooking, wait before feeding until the oatmeal is cool enough. Dogs tend to be sensitive to temperatures so it’s best to wait until it’s almost room temperature before serving.

To introduce your dog to oatmeal, you can start mixing cooked oatmeal with his dog food. Serving size is generally 1 tablespoon for every 20 lbs. of body weight. It may not seem much, but that’s a good enough amount to test the waters and see whether your dog likes the taste or not.

Keep in mind that you should gradually introduce new foods to your pet as giving too much new food too soon can easily lead to stomach upset. Taste tests can be a good way of examining whether your pet finds oats yummy or not. Give him servings of sample oats after his meal and watch if he’s going to ask for more.

Once you’re sure that your dog doesn’t have any adverse reactions to oatmeal, you can increase his serving to a total of ½ cup of cooked oatmeal per week at the most. You may choose to divide this serving into two to three meals weekly.

Making Your Dog’s Oatmeal Yummier

The picture already contains ingredients such as salt, sugar, maple syrup, and milk. Luckily, when your dog gets bored with plain oatmeal, there are some food items you can add to make oatmeal exciting again. The permitted dog oatmeal additives are listed below:

• Fruits: There are many fruits out there that are safe for dogs to eat. Pick one that your dog likes and add small amounts to his oatmeal.
• Peanut Butter: Adding a teaspoon of natural, xylitol-free peanut butter can make your pooch’s oatmeal a lot tastier.
• Cinnamon: Dogs tend to love the smell and taste of cinnamon. Since it’s safe for dogs, you might as well spice up his oatmeal by adding a few sprinkles.
• Pureed Pumpkin: This can add more fiber and flavor to the oatmeal serving of your pooch. Make sure you use pure pumpkin instead of pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains dog’s bad sweeteners.
• Plain Yogurt: You can add it to his oatmeal if your dog is a fan of Greek or plain yogurt. Yogurt is full of vitamins, calcium and good bacteria so that the nutritional powers of the oatmeal can be further enhanced.

Safety Precautions

Although oatmeal is inherently good, it can cause digestive upset if you give too much to your pooch. This is because the excessive content of fiber may eventually result in vomiting and diarrhea. By following the recommendations of your veterinarian, these symptoms can be easily avoided.

Small portions should be enough to harness the benefits of oatmeal for your pooch. Depending on your dog’s size, one to two tablespoons per serving is usually enough. If your dog seems to like it, don’t be tempted to give more than what’s necessary.

Also make sure that in exchange for oatmeal, you do not completely eliminate high-quality dog kibbles. While we can agree that oatmeal is highly beneficial, the nutrients needed to make a complete and balanced diet for canines are still lacking. Oatmeal should only be used as a food supplement or as a snack. At Wadav you will find shops with the best Pet food discounts.

Oatmeal Treat Recipes

Oatmeal cookies and other snacks made for human consumption appear to be great food items to share with dogs, but the content of sugar makes it a bad choice for treats. After all, there are many flavors and ingredients in human food that amplify its taste. The problem is, these are not exactly safe for dogs to eat.

If you really want to make use of oatmeal to make snacks for your dog, there are recipes out there that can help you make dog-friendly treats. Listed below are a few recipes that you can try out:

Berry and Egg Oatmeal Snack

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup full grain or old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup of water
• ¼ cup of berries
• 1 large egg (beaten lightly)
• 2 pieces Berkley Jensen dog treats, pork and berry flavor (chopped)

Instructions:

1. Heat the water and oats over medium heat using a small saucepan. Do this for around 3 minutes.
2. Pour lightly beaten egg into the saucepan. Let it cook for approximate 2 minutes.
3. Add the berries. Let everything cook for the next 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and put the oatmeal mixture in a doggy bowl.
5. Sprinkle chopped treats on the bowl. Let it cool before feeding to your pooch.

Oatmeal Pumpkin Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 3 cups whole grain or old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup pureed pumpkin
• 2 eggs

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to reach 175 ºC or 350 ºF.
2. Pour oats into a food processor or blender.
3. Turn on the device and let it run for approximatly 2 to 3 minutes. Turn off the device when oats become flour-like consistently.
4. Add pureed pumpkin and eggs.
5. Mix until the dough looks even.
6. Prepare a parchment-lined cookie sheet pan. Then, using a small scooper, put small scoops of the dough on the pan.
7. Flatten the scoops using a flour-dipped fork.
8. Bake the oatmeal cookies for approximately 18 minutes. Turn the cookies over on the halfway mark.
9. Let cookies cool before giving to your pooch as a well-deserved treat!

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Doggy Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 cups flour (whole wheat or any other kind of flour)
• 1 and ¼ cups hot water
• 1/3 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
• Extra flour for rolling the dough

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 175 ºC or 350 ºF.
2. Mix oats and flour.
3. Add the water and peanut butter to the oat and flour mixture. Mix everything well.
4. Add extra flour if you find the dough very sticky.
5. Knead dough.
6. Roll the dough on a floured surface. Roll until it’s ¼ inches thick.
7. Use  cookie cutter of choice, cut the dough into your preferred shapes.
8. As for the leftover dough, you can roll them into balls instead.
9. Prepare a greased cookie sheet and transfer the cut doughs there.
10. Bake cookies for around 40 minutes.
11. Let it cool before feeding to your pooch.
12. Place cookies in a box that is airtight. When stored at room temperature, they’ll be good for a week. You can put it in the refrigerator to extend its lifespan by three weeks.

Conclusion: Oatmeal Makes Yummy Canine Meals!

Oatmeal has many health benefits for dogs, and best of all, it can be served in a variety of ways. You may choose to keep your servings of oatmeal as simple as possible, or you may level up to baked treats to take the boredom out of repetitive meals. In any case, always make sure you only give a moderate amount of oatmeal to your pooch as it can cause digestive problems if it consumes too much.

The post Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal? Nutritional Value, Benefits, What Kind and Is It Safe? first appeared on PetXU.com.

If you are a dog owner or a first-time dog parent, it is important to note that whatever food you want your dog to eat, make sure that it is healthy and has no life risk. Remember, animals’ digestive system is different from humans – what’s good for us might be bad for dogs.

It is common knowledge that not all vegetables and fruits are good for dogs. But what if you want some berries to feed your dog? Are they good for them? Is it safe for dogs to eat it? By reading this article, you will know whether giving blackberries to your dog is considered a smart move or a bad one

Are blackberries safe for dogs? Can they eat it? 

Well, here’s good news for everyone. If you want to give a few sweet treats to your dog, blackberries can do that trick. This fruit is low in calories and sugar, so if you give them a few blackberries once in a while, you don’t have to feel guilty.

What are the benefits of eating blackberries?

Blackberries are made of carbohydrates. It contains protein and fat, as well as, vitamins C and K, manganese, and potassium. 

In addition, blackberries, like the other types of berries, have many antioxidants. Since the fruit has a lot of antioxidants, it can help your dog balance their body’s free radicals. If free radicals are balanced successfully, it may prevent your dog from having diseases.

Are blackberries toxic to dogs? 

Berries are safe for dogs as long as you slowly give it to them. If you’re going out, keep an eye on your dog as they might snatch off some blackberries off a wild bush. Your pooch may have had something else with the berry. They may end up becoming sick or worse, poisoned as a result.

What you should remember when feeding blackberries to your dog?

The stomach of dogs is sensitive, so you should look out for the nutrition you’re going to give them. Feed them in moderation with blackberries or they will end up having an upset stomach, or in the worst-case scenario, they will have digestive problems.

Can you feed your dog eat frozen blackberries?

Are you fond of frozen berries? Would you like to share frozen blackberries with your pet? Well, you can do that, but you have to read the product label carefully. Be aware of the things that might be toxic to your dog. Never consider foods that contain harmful ingredients even if they contain so little of them.

Frozen blackberries with no additional seasonings are the best to give your pet as it is all organic. 

Meanwhile, the safest way to share your cherries with your pet is to give them through sprinkling it into their food as a treat. However, it is advisable not to do it more than twice a week. 

On the other hand, you should bear in mind the other fruits that you gave them that week when feeding them blackberries. If you think you’ve given them lots of other fruits that week, you should not give them blackberries or other sweet food — it has lots of sugar!

Can your dog have a blackberry jam?

Jams often contain a lot of added sugar so you might want to avoid it. While sugar is not poisonous to your dog, it can still cause stomachache. 

Can pooches consume Other kinds of Berries?

We all love berries, and indeed animals like to eat them as snacks. Since we know we can feed our dogs with blackberries, how about the other kinds of berries?

Well, the good news is you can share your love for berries with your furry friends! It’s fun to give your pooch some “berry” sweet treats sometimes. 

What are the other types of berry that dogs can eat? 

If you wonder what other types of berries you may give your furry friend, then don’t worry anymore, because here’s the list of delicious berries you can give to them:

1. Blueberries

Blueberries are superfoods. They’re also suitable for people and pets. If you’re on a diet, you may have found it on the list of “the best diet you can eat.”

Blueberries may also form part of the diet of your dog. Just a bit of this sweet treat for your canines is enough. Remember, too much is very bad. So, the key is moderation.

Benefits of Blueberries

It contains antioxidants, phytochemicals and fiber. They are a great low-calorie snack for your furry friends. They also contain vitamin C and vitamin K, in addition to antioxidants. These health benefits will support the immune system of your dog.

Note

Frozen blueberries are the best treat for your dog — dogs love crunchy foods. Adding blueberries to your pooch’s diet plan is the best way to help keep him happy and healthy.

2. Strawberries

Do you love strawberries? Would you like to share it with your friend? Then share it with them! Strawberries are safe, so feeding them this sweet treat is fine. People love the superfood because it is a nutritional powerhouse for both of you and your furry friend. 

Benefits of strawberries for dogs

Strawberries have antioxidants like blueberries — they’re full of antioxidants Another thing, they’re high in fiber and contain vitamin C. In addition, strawberries also have enzymes. It helps to whiten the teeth of your doggo.

Note

Keeping frozen strawberries can be turned into smoothies and crunchy fruity snacks. While dogs love sweet treats, their diet should always be balanced. Strawberries have natural sugar, but it doesn’t mean that you can always give it to them. Too much can have an impact on the health of your dog.

3. Raspberries

Raspberries have high fiber, vitamin C and manganese, although they are low in calories and sugar. This fruit has many health benefits and is a great source of dietary fiber, antioxidants and minerals.

● Raspberries have dietary fiber. Dietary fiber helps to improve your pooch’s digestive system. Add to that, it also fights obesity as this fruit is heavy in the stomach, meaning it can keep your furry friend full for a longer period of time.

● Raspberries can reduce the likelihood of having cancer, arthritis, heart problem and diabetes because it has powerful antioxidants.

● Raspberries are rich in minerals, apart from manganese. The fruit is made up of copper, iron, acid, magnesium, potassium, manganese and follicles.

● Raspberries are rich vitamins B-comp0lex, K and C. 

Note

If you love and eat raspberries, remember that unlike you, you can’t let your dog eat it all the time. However, you can give them two or three raspberries from time to time in moderation. Never allow your dog to eat more of the fruit as it may upset their stomach.

Remember, too much is bad because eating more than three berries could lead to digestive problems. 

What are the berries that are not safe for dogs?

Even as dogs may consume blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries, there are still some berries you should avoid giving to your furry friend.

Cherries can be toxic to your dog because it contains pits. These pits can choke your pooch, which could be really dangerous and can lead to death. 

The other cherries that are toxic to dogs are mistletoe berries, juniper berries, holly berries, baneberries, and pokeberries.

These berries should never be shared with your pooch because there are a number of berries that have similar risks associated with pit and!/or chemicals that are poisonous to your furry friend. 

Note: Some parts of these fruits contain chemicals that are harmful to your dogs — pooches are allergic to the stem and leaves of pf cherries.

Which fruits are safe for dogs? 

● Avocados

● Grapes

● Raisins

● Tomatoes

● Coconut

● Macadamia nuts

● Almonds

● Pecans

● Walnuts

Final thoughts about letting your dog have blackberries

Like what I said, if you give it to them in moderation, blackberries are good for dogs. It can improve their mood as well! It’s perfect to add cherries to the diet of your dog.

So, if you have a grumpy dog, why not try giving them cherries? 

Kidding aside, as a dog owner, you should always remember that it’s bad to give them too many sweets snacks. While cherries are good snacks and one of the best ways to make your dog happy and energetic, it should always be balanced also.

Keep in mind that too much is bad. Giving them enough can also teach them to be more obedient and patient. Never give them all what they always want.

The post Can Dogs Have Blackberries? Are They Safe or Toxic? What Are The Benefits? first appeared on PetXU.com.

As a result, we must always be careful to feed these natural food items, as they are not all safe for our dogs. For example, because of their toxicity, you should avoid feeding onions, garlics, cherries and grapes to your pooch.

But what about zucchini? Is zucchini bad for dogs, or are they a great treat?

Is Zucchini Good for Dogs?

While dogs tend to be attracted to meats, some vegetables make them a little more excited about their food. Zucchini is one of these vegetables. They make excellent treats for dogs, as long as they are not allergic to it.

Veterinarians actually agree that zucchini is one of the best vegetables that can be given to members of our canine family. Since zucchinis usually sprout like weeds in the summer, one of the easiest ways to eliminate the extra supply is to let your pooch “get rid” of them.

That’s because zucchinis are low-calorie and nutrient-filled. Here are some of the healthy stuff that can be found in zucchinis:

• Vitamin B complex
• Vitamin C
• Beta carotene
• Dietary fiber
• Calcium
• Folate
• Potassium

Generally, dogs will be able to get most of the nutrients they need from high-quality dog food. But giving them other food to munch on can be good once in a while, especially if it’s something as healthy as zucchinis.

This is a good weight management option. Since zucchinis contain only 20 calories per cup, it is a great alternative to other high-calorie doggy treats such as jerkies and milk bones. Fiber also helps in making your dog feel fuller. Adding a few zucchinis to her meal can therefore, be a good way to discourage her from munching on more food.

Zucchinis are also low in cholesterol and fat and can strengthen and enhance the bones and muscles of your dog, along with calcium and potassium. Also, vitamin C boosts her immunity, making her skin and coat smoother and healthier.

This doesn’t mean you should put your dog under a strict, zucchini diet only. Ultimately, using zucchinis as supplements or treats rather than meal alternatives is better.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Zucchini?

Raw zucchini is usually safe for dogs to eat. In fact, if you have a zucchini plant in your garden, you may be surprised at how fast your pooch devours your plant.

But most of the time, zucchini is a taste that has been acquired. So, if your pooch is a picky eater, the taste and texture of zucchini might turn her off. Luckily, if you dice it and mix it with wet, meaty dog foods, zucchini can easily turn into something they’ll love.

Depending on how tough the stomach of your dog is, it may be okay to eat raw zucchini, or it may need to be cooked. Many dogs, even if they are safe for consumption, have a hard time digesting raw food in general. Zucchini skin can also cause problems or the stomach, so peeled sticks can be a better treat.

You can have it steamed or boiled without adding any seasoning, oils, butter, garlic, or onions if you want to feed your pooch in the simplest way possible. Yes, this serving will seem bland, but anyway, these treats of zucchini are not meant for human. Dogs don’t need all those additives to appreciate the taste of a particular food.

Safety Precautions Before Feeding

Zucchinis may be low-calorie vegetables, but as with any other food items, too much of something will always be bad. Make sure that you only serve zucchinis moderately. Otherwise, your pooch will suffer a stomach upset due to nutrient imbalances. This also tends to happen if she ate too much, too soon.

If your dog has never previously tried zucchini, it’s best if you feed it with only a small amount to see if she likes the taste or not. This will also help you figure out if she’s going to respond well. Diarrhea and vomiting are common symptoms of bad digestive reactions. Stop feeding your zucchinis and contact your veterinarian ASAP if such conditions occur.

Additionally, large zucchini pieces may lead to choking if your pooch loves to gobble her food up without chewing. Thus, make sure that you chop and dice your zucchinis into smaller pieces to minimize the risks of choking.

Although raw zucchini is safe for dogs, giving her a whole uncooked zucchini to munch on is also not advisable. If it is given as a treat it is better to cut into manageable pieces. In this way, it can be served as a “dessert” after-meal, or it can also be used as a training treat.

Zucchini Serving Suggestions

The most convenient way of feeding zucchinis to dogs is by giving them sliced or cubed zucchini pieces. Raw would be fine, but you can also freeze it and give it as a cold treat. These are especially great desserts during the hot summer months.

You can use zucchini as the main ingredient for home-cooked dog food if you want to use it as a tool for weight loss or weight management. You can also grate raw zucchini over the dry dog food of your pooch to make it tastier and more inviting.

Technically, dogs don’t have to eat vegetables to maintain their health, especially if you feed it with the best kinds of dog food. However, if you need an option that fills the food requirements of your dog sufficiently as a substitute, then zucchini fits perfectly into the bill.

Treats should amount to below 10% of your dog’s daily diet. This number serves as a good estimate of how much zucchini you can give to your pooch.

After all, small dogs and big dogs ‘ food requirements vary greatly. A small dog may have as little as 1⁄2 cup of dog food per day, while a big dog may need a total of 4 cups to maintain its lifestyle. Therefore, to measure how much zucchini you can add to their meals, it is best to refer to your dog’s usual daily intake of food.

Cooked Zucchinis and Zucchini Products: Which Ones Are Safe?

As mentioned earlier, raw or cooked zucchinis are safe enough for dogs, provided that you skip any kind of seasoning. Boiled or steamed zucchinis are usually the healthiest cooking options.

In the meantime, no matter what, zucchini breads and other human baked zucchini products should be of limit to dogs. Usually, these food items are filled with unhealthy calories that usually cause obesity. They are also high in sugar and fat that can cause your pooch stomach upset. You can’t also be sure what other ingredients are in those products, so if you just stay as far away from them as possible, it’s for the better.

Another ingredient that you have to worry about when it comes to baked products is xylitol. This particular sweetener is poisonous for dogs so you should make sure that these products are inaccessible to your dog at all times.

If you really want to feed your pooch with treats or desserts filled with zucchini, we will to share some of the recipes you can make at home. Usually, this is a safer option because you know exactly what’s goes into the food of your dog. You can therefore adjust the ingredients accordingly and avoid anything that does not add value to the treats of your pet.

Should I Worry If My Dog Munches on My Zucchini Plants?

Dogs are curious creatures, so there is a high likelihood that they can munch on your zucchini plants in the garden. They just like eating stuff on the ground, as long as it looks delicious — even if it isn’t supposed to be eaten.

Fortunately, there’s no need to worry if your dog happens to eat zucchini leaves or flowers. All parts of the zucchini plant aren’t poisonous. In fact, the flower is edible and it’s usually added to human foods.

If you let your dog roam around your garden, take note of any plant or fruit you have in your garden. While zucchini plants are safe for canine consumption, you still need to make sure that they are unable to access anything toxic to them.

Keep an eye on all the plants that you have so that you know if you have to call the veterinarian upon seeing a bald patch in your garden!

Zucchini Recipes for Dogs

Zucchini slices are convenient, but if you don’t offer any other variety, dogs can get bored of it very quickly. Fortunately, there are a number of delicious and dog-approved zucchini recipes. A few ways to make your zucchini surplus into yummy doggy snacks are listed below!

Zucchini Cupcakes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup zucchini (grated)
• 2 cups flour (whole wheat)
• 1 cup chicken stock
• ¼ cup canola oil
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 1 tbsp. baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 ºF.
2. Except for the zucchini, mix all other ingredients in a bowl.
3. Add the zucchini into the mixture. Make sure that everything is blended properly.
4. Pour the batter into regular-sized, paper-lined muffin tins. Stop pouring when the tin is ¾ full.
5. Bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
6. You can insert a toothpick into the center of the cupcake to see if anything sticks if you want to check if they’re done. If the toothpick comes out clean, it’s nice to go!

¼ of a cupcake is usually a good enough serving for your pooch. Of course, for bigger dogs, they may be able to get away with more.

Zucchini Doggy Biscuits

Ingredients:

• 2 small zucchinis (shredded)
• 2.5 cups flour (whole wheat)
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 3 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled) – Optional, but highly recommended!
• 1 tsp. cinnamon – Optional
• Chopped Brazil nuts – Optional
• Dried cranberries – Optional

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 ºF.
2. Dice or cube zucchinis. You can choose whether to peel the skin or leave it depending on what happens in your garden.
3. Use a food processor to shred. You can also use a cheese grater if you don’t have a food processor.
4. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl.
5. If the dough is sticky or wet, add more flour.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s around ½ inches thick.
7. Flour your cookie cutters ‘ insides. Cut the dough into the shapes you prefer.
8. Prepare a greased or parchment-lined cookie sheet. Put the cut biscuits there.
9. Roll out the remaining dough. Cut more biscuits until the dough runs out.
10. Bake for approximately 20 minutes.
11. Turn the biscuits over after 20 minutes. Then, bake for another 20 minutes.
12. Turn off your oven after a total of 40 minutes of baking. Leave the biscuits inside for the next 20 minutes.
13. Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool.
14. Store in the refrigerator and give to your dog as treats!

Depending on the size of your biscuits, you may need to cut it into smaller pieces per serving, or if it’s small enough, you can give it all. In any case, make sure you give only what’s recommended daily for your dog’s serving of treats.

Conclusion: Zucchinis are Worth Sharing with Your Pooch!

If you’re looking for ways to use the extra zucchinis you’ve got in the garden during the summer, you’d be happy to hear that you can “use” your pooch to clean them up. Zucchinis are perfectly safe for dogs, and they can be eaten raw or cooked.

When preparing zucchini recipes for your pooch, make sure that you only use ingredients that are safe for canines. It’s also recommended to introduce zucchinis gradually to minimize stomach upsets.

The post Can Dogs Eat Zucchini or Raw Zucchini? Is It Good? Benefits and Is It Safe? first appeared on PetXU.com.

If you are wondering whether cucumbers are safe for them or not, then keep on reading this article to find out.

What Is A Cucumber?

Cucumber is a plant belonging to the family of gourds with a scientific name Cucurbitaceae. Compared to other fruits, the nutritional value of this fruit may not be as high, but flavor and texture are a great addition to delightful dishes such as salad.

A cucumber is crunchy and very refreshing. It is a good reason that you may want your pooch to have some of these.

Can Your Dog Eat Cucumbers?

YES, there may be a few cucumbers in your pooch. This is a great tasting vegetable that can help your dog’s hydration, particularly during the summer months. Cucumber is 96% water, which will keep your dog refreshed.

Cucumbers also have some minerals and vitamins that are beneficial for your dog’s health. These are the goodness that comes with this vegetable:

• Vitamin C to fight all forms of infections.
• Vitamin K for blood clotting and rapid wound healing. Also, vitamin K is good for strengthening bones. So if you’re taking your dog with you during your outdoor activities, this vitamin will help make its bone is less prone to injury.
• Vitamin B1, B5, and B6 for tissue and muscle repairs, appetite stimulation, and for the metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins.
• Potassium is for the proper functioning of your dog’s digestive tract.
• Maganese Your fur baby needs manganese for the metabolization of proteins and carbohydrates and to maintain healthy bones and teeth.
• Copper is for iron absorption and the formation of red blood cells.
• Molybdenum is to stop the formation of tumor growths-whether benign or cancerous.
• Biotin is very important because it is used to keep the tissues healthy, to make the skin healthy and to treat allergies, particularly in puppies.
• Silica is a mineral that helps reduce the pain and swelling of the joints. Thus, cucumber is good for dogs that are prone to have rheumatoid arthritis.

Apart from the nutrients mentioned above, cucumbers also provide your pooch with calcium, fiber, iron, and zinc.

Is Cucumber Safe for Dogs? Can Puppies Eat It, Too?

Being a fur parent, I know that the safety of human food for your pooch is one of your questions. You might wonder if your dog can receive from the cucumber the same amount of nutrients as you do. The answer to that is YES! Cucumber is completely safe for your dog to munch on, it’s so safe that even puppies can eat it.

You can feed it with a few slices of cucumber for as long as your puppy has been weaned from her mother. The idea is to give it a little and see if it has some problems with the tummy. If none, you can increase the amount gradually.

The important thing to remember when feeding a cucumber to puppies is that they should no longer be drinking milk because it can cause an upset stomach.

Is Cucumber Bad for Dogs?

Despite dogs eating cucumbers ‘ nutritional benefits, there are some instances where the two “do not see eye to eye.” Since cucumber is 96% water, it can cause some trouble in its tummy when you feed your pooch with too many of this veggie. It can cause diarrhea and a gassy stomach in them.

These symptoms will go away in a few days, there’s really nothing to be afraid of. But, if the symptoms persist, you might need to talk to the Vet about your pooch just to make sure it doesn’t get dehydrated.

Additionally, dairy products and cucumber are not entirely good when combined. So, if you give dairy treats like milk or cheese, then stay away from cucumber for a while.

Is Cucumber Good for Dogs?

Now that you know that cucumber is safe for dogs, then the question is “if it is good for them?”.

Cucumbers are good for dogs but in moderation. It contains nutrients that are good for the overall health of your dog. However, you should remember that your dog’s main diet should contain the right proportion of carbs and protein and some percentage of fat.

Dogs can be given fresh fruits and veggies, but those are not part of their main diet. These human food are only given as treats, which should only comprise 10% of their total diet.

Therefore, in the case of your fur baby, unlike the human parents who are required to eat more fruits and veggies than meat, it’s the opposite.

What Are The Health Benefits of Giving Your Dog The Right Proportion of Cucumber?

First, you can combine giving cucumber as a treat along with the right exercise if you have an overweight dog. The cucumber is low in calories, so it won’t add to your dog’s weight problem.

Second, cucumber is a healthy treat that is low in fat and calories. This is much better than the dog treats that are laden with artificial flavoring and calories.

Third, since it’s mostly water, you can bring a few slices while you are at the park. You can enjoy the hydrating and refreshing cucumber goodness with your fur baby.

Fourth, since cucumber is loaded with vitamins and minerals, then giving it as a form of treat will make your dog healthier.

Can Your Dog Eat Raw Cucumber?

YES, you can give fresh and raw cucumber. Your dog will definitely enjoy the crunch and the oozing juice that comes out from cucumber.

Some dog owners prefer boiling the cucumber. This can be done but it loses the crunch.

What About The Skin Of The Cucumber?

Do you think that if you feed your pooch with an unpeeled cucumber, you’ll hurt it? The reply is NO. The cucumber’s skin also contains essential nutrients.

The first thing you need to do is to wash the cucumber and remove any traces of chemicals. Then you slice it thinly so that it won’t be difficult to chew by your pooch.

What About The Seeds?

There are a number of dog-toxic fruit seeds. An example is the peach’s seed. But, the refreshing news is that eating the cucumber seeds is perfectly safe for your dog.

You can also find a variety of seedless cucumber in the market, which is equally good as the ones with seeds.

What About Picked Cucumber?

We love to make a vinaigrette dressing for our cucumber. Can we also flavor our dogs ‘ cucumber? Well, that’s not a good idea. The pickled cucumber has some spices that are not healthy for our fur babies, such as salt and sugar. So, let’s just feed them with raw cucumber and let them savor the crunch of it.

My Dog Has Bad Breath, Can Cucumber Fix The Problem?

YES, that’s because cucumbers have phytonutrients as well as phytochemicals that act as breath fresheners. But don’t replace it with the toothpaste for your doggie. Even if you feed it with cucumbers, your dog’s teeth still need to be cleaned.

Buy a good quality of dog toothpaste, like Petrodex Enzymatic Toothpaste for Dogs.

How Do You Give Cucumber To Your Dog?

If it’s the first taste of cucumber by your dog, give it slowly. This is to enable its tummy to adjust to the vitamins and minerals present in cucumbers like fiber and potassium. If your pet has no symptoms of tummy pain, you may be able to increase its cucumber consumption.

It’s up to you whether or not to peel the skin. Whatever you choose, cutting the cucumber into small pieces is important.

Then, you can also add the cucumber to its regular dog food.

If you have a teething puppy, you can freeze some cucumber small cubes and then give these as teething veggies for your pup.

How Many Cucumber Can Your Dog Eat?

Always follow the 10% rule, just like all other types of dog treats. You can give a few slices or about 1/8 cup of the cucumber for small dogs. 1/4 to 1/2 cup sliced cucumber can be given to the medium to large breed of dogs.

Cucumber Recipe for Your Fur Baby:

This recipe is a mixture of chicken and cucumber. If your dog is allergic to poultry, please feel free to replace chicken with beef or pork or even fish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of grated cucumber
• One piece of half-cooked chicken breast or any type of meat
• One tablespoon of parmesan cheese (optional)
• 4 pieces of chopped mint leaves
• One cup of flour

Directions:

• Preheat the oven
• Mix all the ingredients in a bowl
• Form the dough into small balls and then roll out and flatten onto a baking pan
• Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown
• Cool and give to your fur baby as a treat

You can store the left-overs in the fridge.

Conclusion

There’s nothing like giving a healthy form of snacks or treats to your fur baby. You may choose to give low-calorie dog treats but feel free to let your fur baby taste the cucumber’s goodness on some occasions. It’s healthy and low in calories and fat. Then, how can your dog withstand a cucumber’s crunchiness and juiciness? So, go ahead and let your dog indulge in this healthy and refreshing snack.

The post Can Dogs Eat Cucumbers Or Seeds? Safe? Can Puppies Eat? Good, Bad and Benefits first appeared on PetXU.com.

I will also share with you the right proportion of kiwi that they can eat and if there are certain parts of the kiwi fruit that are not safe for them.

What Is A Kiwi?

This fruit is from China. It came to New Zealand in the 20th century and it was also known by the name of the Chinese Gooseberry later on. But the term Chinese Gooseberry has been changed to kiwi fruit due to high import taxes levied on berry fruit.

Ever wonder how the name kiwi was coined? It got its nickname kiwi fruit because it shares some features with New Zealand’s native bird, the kiwi bird. The kiwi bird is small and brown in color, just like a kiwi fruit.

Some Fun Facts About Kiwi:

• Kiwi belongs to the berry family
• It induces good sleep and improves the quality of the skin
• China is the highest producer of kiwi fruits
• A kiwi only contains 54 calories

The Health Benefits of Kiwi for Humans:

• It has collagen which is beneficial for the skin
• Improves the quality of sleep
• It is high in fiber and potassium
• It lowers blood pressure
• It prevents constipation

Can Dogs Have Kiwi?

There’s no denying how healthy a kiwi fruit is, as you’ve seen. And YES, your fur baby can also have a kiwi as an occasional treat. You must bear in mind, however, that it does not offer the same benefits to humans as dogs. Overall, your fur baby should only eat a kiwi fruit in moderation.

It is worth noting the dogs should only consume 10% of treats on a daily basis. When I say dog treats, it also includes fruits like a kiwi.

Which Parts of The Kiwi Are Safe for Dogs?

The kiwi’s meat is perfectly safe for your fur baby. But before you give the skin, it’s best to consult a vet. Although many dogs love the skin’s texture, it’s still best to get the experts ‘ opinion.

The kiwi’s skin is a bit tough. It also has a high content of fiber or roughage. It acts as a stimulant because it is a roughage that encourages a fast bowel movement. Thus, the kiwi’s skin may lead to diarrhea, although it is not toxic. Your fur baby can also suffer from choking if you feed it with the kiwi’s skin.

The seeds of the kiwi fruit can also be toxic to your dog.

Is Kiwi Safe for Dogs?

YES, kiwi is safe for your fur baby. But keep in mind that you shouldn’t give it too many as it can make itchy the tongue of your dog. Kiwi fruit contains Actinidain, an enzyme capable of irritating the tongue.

Moreover, it is safe, but only up to certain amounts only. Never allow your fur baby to eat as many kiwis that it wants because its tummy may act up.

How Nutritious Is Kiwi for Your Dog? Is Kiwi Good for Dogs?

• Kiwi has a good amount of Vitamin C:

In fact, a kiwi has a higher content of vitamin C than an orange fruit. One piece of kiwi can give your dog 75% of vitamin C. No one can deny the power of vitamin C-it makes your dog’s immune system tougher and more resistant to many types of canine diseases.

• Kiwi is high in potassium content:

If your fur baby is having a hard time defecating, it’s a sign that it’s low in potassium. If your dog has no regular bowel movement, he may get cancer later in his life. For healthy heart, liver, and kidneys, potassium is also needed.

• Kiwi contains Vitamin K:

This is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that helps in the process of blood clotting. If your fur baby gets wounded, its lesion will heal faster if its body has the right amount of Vitamin K. 

• Kiwi is an excellent source of fiber:

Fiber-rich food is recommended for obese dogs because it makes them feel full. This is also true for dogs with diabetes. Having the right amount of fiber helps in the digestive system.

• Kiwi is rich in antioxidants:

Your dog needs these to pump up their immune system. Just like us, it can easily catch diseases such as colds and kennel cough if your fur baby has a weak immune system. This is the antioxidant function — to make your dog tougher and more resistant to disease.

• Kiwi fights cancer:

Unfortunately, there is also a chance for our fur babies to suffer from cancer. Genes, as well as environmental factors, play a major role. But if you are going to give dog treats that have anticancer properties such as kiwi fruit, it will lower the chance of getting this life-threatening disease.

• Kiwi is free from saturated fats:

You may hear your vet say you shouldn’t give high-fat treats because it can make your dog gain too much weight. Fruits like kiwi are fat-free, so it’s safe and healthy as a snack for them.

• Kiwi is loaded with mineral copper:

Your fur baby needs 3.3 mg of copper on average. This mineral’s function is to form its connective tissues properly.

The Nutritional Contents of Kiwi:

• Total fat; 1 gram
• Calories: 54
• Saturated fat: 0
• Cholesterol: 0
• Dietary Fiber: 3 grams
• Sugar: 9 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams
• Protein: 1 gram
• Vitamin C: 92.7 milligrams
• Calcium: 34 milligrams
• Iron; 0.31 milligrams

Therefore:

• Kiwi is good for your dog’s digestion
• Kiwi is good for increased immunity
• Kiwi is good for your dog’s eyesight
• Kiwi makes the bones healthier
• Kiwi makes the skin and coat more radiant and resistant to skin diseases.

What Are The Possible Problems of Feeding Kiwi To Your Dog? Is Kiwi Bad for Dogs?

Now that you are aware of kiwi’s goodness to the health of your dog, there are also some possible downsides which are as follows:

• Most of the seeds of fruits are toxic to dogs and kiwi in no exception. That being said, make sure that you scoop out the small seeds before giving the kiwi.

• Even if the kiwi’s flesh is soft, it is still advisable to cut it into small pieces so as to prevent choking. Dogs are well-known for fast eating, more so if the food tastes delicious.

• Do not give the skin. Even if it has no toxins, the skin is on the hard side, so it can cause choking. Plus, the skin is very high in fiber that can cause a bout of diarrhea for your dog.

• Do not give canned kiwis because of its sugar content.

• Do not give your fur baby dried kiwis even in small quantities because of the added sugar.

How Do You Give A Kiwi?

1. Buy fresh kiwi for your fur baby. The ripe kiwis can be purchased and stored in the fridge for up to a week. To decipher if a kiwi is fresh or not, the skin should not be wrinkled and there should be no mold signs. Also, when pressed down lightly, the skin should not be too mushy.
2. Remove the skin and then cut the kiwi into half. Scoop out the small seeds.
3. Dice the kiwi into bite-sized pieces.
4. Limit its intake to two small pieces for large dogs and 1/2 to 1 piece for small to medium-sized dog breeds since kiwi has sugar content.

If your fur baby has a kiwi taste for the first time, serve it with very few pieces. Be on the lookout for allergy signs. If there is none, the next time you want to give it fresh kiwi, you can increase the quantity.

Some ready-made dog treats contain kiwi. You can give these treats during training sessions. The K9 Granola Factory Apricot and Kiwi Coconut Crunchers are packed with the flavor and the nutritional goodness of kiwi.

Can Puppies Eat Kiwi?

If you have adult dogs and puppies at home, your pups will probably become jealous if you don’t give them what the adults do. YES, pups may have some kiwi, but in small pieces, but cut the fruit. Don’t forget that they can only have very few pieces of this fruit. 

Can Obese Dogs Have Kiwi?

Since this fruit is high in fiber and potassium, then it can also be eaten by obese dogs. Plus the fact that it is very low in calories and fat.

What Happens If Your Dog Ate Too Many Kiwi?

If this fruit is used to overindulge your fur baby, it can lead to tummy ache and diarrhea. This fruit is a natural laxative therefore it will make your dog poop too much. So, just give the kiwi in the right proportion to avoid this happening. How often is it possible to give kiwi? It is safe to give it at least every three weeks interval.

Conclusion:

“Can dogs have kiwi?”.”YES, ABSOLUTELY! The only thing to bear in mind is just giving kiwi as an occasional treat (every three weeks) and giving it in small portions. I know how much you want to spoil your fur baby, but you’ve got to understand that their digestive systems are different from ours.

They can eat human food but only in the right amount only.

The post Can Dogs Have Kiwi? Is This Fruit Safe For Dogs? How Nutritious Is Kiwi For Them? first appeared on PetXU.com.

The question is: is it okay to share apricots with your pooch? The short answer would be, it depends. The rest of this post will explain the conditions that would make apricots safe for your dog to eat!

Nutritional Benefits of Apricots

In their daily nutritional requirements, dogs don’t need a huge amount of carbohydrates. Having carbs through fruits, however, offers some health benefits. Some of the key nutrients found in apricots are listed below:

• Vitamin A: Boosts immunity, maintains eye health
• Vitamin C: Boosts immunity, helps maintain healthy skin and coat
• Potassium: Optimizes functions of organs, improves the health of muscles and nerves, prevents muscle pain and cramping
• Beta Carotene: Minimizes risks for cataracts

Apricots can also be used as an enhancer of appetite. You can mix apricot flesh with the usual kibble of your pooch, or you can use it to get them to drink their medicine. This is particularly useful if the medicines are in the form of capsules or tablets.

Since the taste of apricots is usually palatable, it’s an excellent means of getting your dog to eat more — but only if he needs to!

Apricot Toxicity in Canines

Apricots once belonged to the list of poisonous human foods for dogs. That’s because its leaves, pits, seeds, and stems contain cyanide. This substance is highly toxic to canines.

When cyanide enters the bloodstream, the enzymes that help cells distribute oxygen throughout the body of your pet will be inhibited. As a result, your dog will become very sick, and it can lead to death if not treated immediately.

Your dog will not be able to tell what parts of the apricot are edible or not without training. If apricots lie around just where your dog usually stays, it’ll probably swallow it up like the excited pup he’s.

Hence, it’s either you keep the apricots far away from your dog’s reach, or you train him never to touch the apricots unless you’ve already peeled it.

Training Your Pooch to Leave Apricots Alone

It’s not that easy to teach your pooch to avoid certain items while allowing him to munch on other stuff. To solve this, rules and clear boundaries must be set.

You can begin by training your dog to eat only the things that come from you and leave those that lie around. It usually takes a lot of patience because dogs need to build that self-control in order to resist the delicious things that are before them.

The great thing about this is that, once your dog learns how to leave apricots alone, it will be easier for you to make him avoid other harmful stuff.

In order to achieve consistency, the other members of your household must also be on board. Otherwise, it may be difficult for your pooch to learn that treats should it only come from you — at least during the training phase.

Another thing to take note of is to teach your dog to keep out of the areas where the apricots are — or where most of your food are, in general. This minimizes the chances that your dog will eat something that it shouldn’t.

Crate training should also solve your concerns, which when you’re away can be really helpful. That way, at certain times of the day, your dog gets used to the crate. Two things are achieved:

• Your dog won’t be able to devour things mindlessly.
• Your dog will learn how to soothe himself in your absence.

Symptoms of Apricot Poisoning

Of course, even if you manage to take all the preventive measures you can think of, there will still be moments when accidents happen. Signs that your dog may have ingested the toxic parts of apricot are listed below:

• Bloody stools
• Breathing difficulties or raspy breaths
• Bright red gums
• Diarrhea
• Dilated pupils
• Drooling
• Heavy panting
• Fatigue and lethargy (especially obvious if your dog is high-energy)
• Shock, seizures, or spasms
• Sweaty paws
• Urinary incontinence (urinating even when they don’t want or need to)
• Watery eyes

The signs will be obvious around 15 minutes after exposure to cyanide. This will be a crucial time and you’ll need to act calmly but urgently.

What Should You Do in Case of Apricot Poisoning?

Although it may not be that dangerous to ingest a small amount of cyanide-infused parts, it is still advisable to contact your vet ASAP so that you know exactly what to do. Some apricot parts may block their digestive tract, depending on the size of your pet.

If you’re afraid he’s eaten a lot, you’ll need to take your dog to the vet right away. Your vet will be able to flush the cyanide out of the system of your pooch. In any case, you must prepare your pooch for the upcoming detox and possible shots.

As for your mental preparation, your vet will usually ask questions about the following:

• The onset of the symptoms as mentioned earlier
• Amount of apricot you think your dog ate
• The approximate timeframe when the apricot was eaten

They will ask other questions that can help them get to a proper diagnosis. Therefore, it’s important to remember as many details as possible about what’s gone down. Depending on how severe the condition of your pet is, tests such as urinalysis or blood work may be needed to be performed by your vet to ensure the accuracy of their diagnosis.

Your veterinarian will need to act quickly as soon as they notice life-threatening symptoms such as tremors, convulsions, and difficulty breathing. Otherwise, it may cost your pet’s life not to act in a timely manner.

No matter what happens, you must keep calm and show support for your pet, as this might be a tough endeavor for him if the apricot poisoning is quite serious.

Should I Worry If My Dog Eats Apricot?

There are generally no problems with apricots for dogs as long as they only eat the flesh. Since it is filled with beneficial nutrients, they can be treated well by an occasional apricot treat.

Additionally, apricot seems to have the kind of sweetness that dogs love. Try giving a little piece of apricot flesh and see if it suits their taste.

Make sure your dog can only eat apricot under your supervision, however. As mentioned earlier, unless you permit them to eat it, it is worth the effort to ignore apricots. This greatly reduces its chances of eating the cyanide parts.

How About Dried Apricots?

Without any problems, dogs can eat dried apricots. Because dried apricots are harder than fresh ones, it can be a good snack for pets who love chewing and nibbling on things. You can even use it as a treat for training. If your dog loves those, it can also be a good alternative to jerky-type treats.

Some dogs don’t even bother chewing on their treats, though. They just go straight to swallow it without trying to find out how it tastes. If your dog is like this, you have to watch out because they can get stuck in their digestive tract with these food particles.

When this happens, the dog will usually have a stomach upset. In this case, a trip to the vet may be needed to clear the blockage carefully.

If you’re ever going to feed your dog with dried apricots, it’s best to cut them into smaller pieces. That way, you wouldn’t have to worry about stuck apricots in your dog’s system. If he’s an avid chewer, however, you can leave the dried apricot in his normal size and let your pooch chew away as he likes!

Feeding Recommendations

After a meal, you may give your dog some apricot flesh. It should be fine to have a few small pieces. Remember not to overfeed your dog because too many apricots can cause diarrhea and stomach upset.

Apricots also have sugar content, so it’s best to limit its consumption to a few times per week, and with only small servings.

If you go for fresh apricots, thoroughly wash the meat before cutting it into smaller, more digestible pieces. Get rid of the toxic parts in a safe place and make sure your dog can’t find it no matter what. You don’t want him to be curious and sniff it out of its place of hiding. And you certainly don’t want to be caught off guard when he eats something that should have been inaccessible to him.

As for dried apricots, small parts of the pit may be left over during the production process. Go over the piece thoroughly before giving it to your pooch.

Like any new food, introducing apricot to your dog’s diet gradually is important. You can try to start with only two small pieces. Then you can raise the limit to five small pieces per day when there are no adverse reactions.

In any case, ask your veterinarian for recommended amounts of apricot servings. Also, don’t forget to brush your dog’s teeth afterwards as you don’t want to leave a lot of sugar residue in his mouth.

Avoiding Cyanide Poisoning from Apricots

The best way to deal with apricot poisoning is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Following a few key steps, making sure your pooch is safe from cyanide poisoning goes a long way.

In summary, here’s how you can keep your pet from being poisoned by apricot cyanide:

• Make all apricots at home inaccessible to your dog.
• Train your dog to stay away from areas where you store your food.
• Train your dog to only get treats from you (for now).
• Train your dog with the crate. This will reduce the likelihood of any unfavorable accidents if you are not there to monitor.
• Create a first-response plan with your veterinarian just in case an apricot poisoning happens.

Apricot for Dogs FAQs

Can dogs have apricot nectar?

Feeding your dogs, ready-made apricot nectars sold on the market are not safe. Because it is made for human consumption, to produce a sweeter taste, it has added sugars.

However, if you make it yourself, you can give your dog apricot juice. That way, you know exactly what’s in it. You can either go for plain juice, or if it’s hot outside, you can make him an apricot smoothie.

Can dogs have canned apricot?

Canned apricot doesn’t only have added sugars; it also contains salt and spices. These ingredients are not safe for dogs, particularly if the quantity is tailored to people.

Can dogs have apricot yogurt?

Most flavored yogurts may have ingredients that are unsuitable for dogs. They also have added sugars to make the fruity flavor stand out.

If you want to give your dog yogurt, go instead for the plain yogurt. You can make a yogurt apricot smoothie for your pooch together with the fresh apricot.

Can dogs have apricot jam?

Jams from apricot sound like they really taste good. And while the nose of your dog may agree, it’s better to withhold fruit jams from your dog of any kind. That’s because it’s full of sugar as well.

Can dogs have apricot jelly?

Like jams, jellies also have high sugar content. Keep these food items away from your dog to ensure that he won’t be tempted to eat them.

Conclusion: Only the Apricot Flesh is Safe!

Dogs love eating fruit during snacks time, especially when it’s as delicious as apricots. If your dog seems to like to sniff the apricots lying around at home, you might want to give him some apricot flesh. Only the flesh is safe for canine consumption.

Remember, apricots should only be accessible to your dog if they are peeled or dried. Otherwise, the mistake of eating the poisonous parts (pits, stems, seeds, leaves) may be made. Contact your veterinarian immediately in case of apricot poisoning.

The post Can Dogs Eat Apricots? Benefits and Is It Dangerous For Dogs? first appeared on PetXU.com.