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Can Dogs Eat Nectarines?

A dog with bowl in teeth.

Many of us can’t always wait for summer to come. Part of the reason is to consume sweet, nutritious fruits. As a dog owner, you would also want to care for it, especially by giving it what you take. Besides, dogs also love eating whatever they come across. This may keep you wondering: can dogs eat nectarines? You don’t want to feed your dog something, only to discover that it’s bad for it.

Therefore, this article shows you how you can feed your dog nectarines most safely and enjoyably.

Can Dogs Have Nectarines?

Well, the answer to the question “can dogs have nectarines?” is an overwhelming “yes!” Nectarines are not only rich in vitamins A and C but also magnesium, potassium, and dietary fiber. Despite the evidence of its numerous benefits, they may pose certain potential dangers. It is your responsibility as a dog owner to know how much nectarines you should feed your dog and conditions that may warrant that you stop feeding it nectarines.

Are Nectarines Safe for Dogs?

You might also want to ask, “are nectarines safe for dogs?” The answer to this is simple, nectarines are very safe for dogs. However, you have to safely ‘administer’ the fruit to it. This is due to its high sugar content. Therefore, what is considered a safe portion will depend on the breed of the dog and its size.

Spaniel eating from a bowl.

For instance, the recommended portion sizes for a small breed such as a toy poodle are a maximum of two slices while larger breeds such as a Rottweiler can have up to five slices. Besides, small dogs may find it easy to swallow but difficult to digest nectarine pits, which may cause intestinal blockage. This is why you should never give your dog a whole piece of nectarine.

Apart from the high sugar content, nectarines are also rich in fiber, which can cause gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, when consumed in excess. Though an organic nectarine is safe for dogs, you would want to avoid canned nectarines.

Remember that the latter would contain preservatives, which are used to preserve the fruit’s color and flavor.

The addition of preservatives simply means extra sugar. Of course, sugary foods would do your dog more danger than good. Such dangers could include obesity, diabetes, or tooth decay.

Are Nectarines Good for Dogs?

Since the fruit is a good source of vitamins A and C and other nutrients, we answer the question “are nectarines good for dogs?” in the affirmative. So, yes, we find nectarine safe for dogs to eat and enjoy. There is one thing: dogs synthesize their own vitamin C. So, it makes no sense to feed it nectarines in excess. Otherwise, they become harmful. However, your dog may benefit from its excessive consumption of nectarines when it is ill from ingesting a toxic substance such as propylene glycol.

Jack Russell Terrier eating from a bowl.

Similarly, when you give your dog nectarines, you help it get rid of constipation. This is one of the benefits of the dietary fiber that is present in the fruit. Also, the vitamin A nutrient of the fruit will help to improve your dog’s eye health as well as its skin and fur. Both potassium and magnesium contribute to the effective functioning of enzymes in the body.

Best Ways to Give Nectarines to your Dog

When you give nectarine to your dog for the first time, it tends to lap the whole fruit up quickly. Who wouldn’t want to consume delicious fruits in high quantities?

However, this may cause a great disaster. A good way to go about this is to feed it with little quantity first so you can study how its body reacts to it.

You may also want to consider your dog’s size. For instance, if your dog belongs to small breeds, then it is necessary that you chop the fruit into small, digestible pieces. However, you have to safely remove the pit, which contains a toxic ingredient known as cyanide. Consider it an occasional treat that should also be served in moderation.

Dog eats out of hands.

Serve your dog fresh nectarines. This is as rotten nectarines produce ethanol, which is toxic to dogs.

Conclusion

So, back to the question: can dogs eat nectarines? The answer is yes, as long as it is served fresh and moderately. Nectarines aren’t like grapes which you should never give to your dog. Your dog will reap its nutrients when it is fed the fruit in its organic state, in moderation and appropriate sizes, as well as occasionally. Above all, you should get a green light from your veterinarian before feeding the fruit to your dog.

I hope you found this article helpful. You may also want to check our pet product reviews page to find a product that suits your taste and fits into your budget.

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