The use of the pineapple extends beyond being the home of Spongebob Squarepants. It actually makes for a lovely treat for your pup. That’s right, the answer to the question, “Can dogs have pineapple?” is a resounding yes!
Why Can Dogs Have Pineapple?
Dogs can eat pineapple for the same reasons humans can: pineapple isn’t toxic, the risk for a pineapple allergy is very rare, and pineapple contains a large variety of healthy nutrients. Just like watermelon, blueberries, strawberries, and apples, the pineapple makes for a delicious treat for your pup!
The sweet, tangy flavor of pineapple instantly transports your pup to the beach. That juicy bite of yellow sweetness lends them glorious visions of frolicking along the ocean’s shore.
Beautiful, isn’t it?
Can Dogs Have Pineapple and Benefit From It?
You likely wonder if pineapple is good for dogs. You know that you can eat pineapple and enjoy its nutritious, deliciousness. But you love your furry friend and want to make sure you’re feeding them the healthiest treats as possible.
So, is pineapple good for dogs?
Of course it is! The healthy benefits of pineapple apply to dogs as much as they do to us hoomans. Pineapple contains a ton of vitamin B, C, and a wide variety of healthy minerals.
In particular, pineapple contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, and B9. That’s a lot of B’s, unlike my college GPA (sorry Mom!). Jokes aside, these B vitamins are serious about making your pup even healthier.
In case you wondered, these B vitamins work wonders for your pup’s health and energy levels. Vitamins B1, 2, and 6 aid in converting carbs into usable energy for your dog. Vitamin B3 helps to lower cholesterol, ease arthritis, and boost brain functions. Vitamin B9 helps produce red and white blood cells, while also aiding in the production of DNA.
All those B’s will buzz your dog into great shape!
Pineapple also contains high amounts of vitamin C and minerals. Vitamin C boosts your pup’s immune system and helps with inflammation related disease like arthritis. As for the minerals, pineapple contains minerals like manganese and potassium, which aid your dog’s digestive health.
Sugar and Spikes, Not So Nice
Despite the amazing health benefits, pineapple tends to have high amounts of natural sugars. But this is easy to avoid. All you have to do is avoid feeding your pup more than a few pieces of pineapple a day. Also, as you wouldn’t eat the spiny skin of the pineapple, your furry friend shouldn’t either.
Anyways, pineapple is a special treat and should be used only when your pup has been on their best behavior. Using pineapple as a super special treat makes it a special occasion for your pup.
Make That Occasion Extra Special
While your dog already loves the heck out of pineapple, wait until you make them a special pineapple treat!
Courtesy of The Blond Cook, here’s a delicious homemade pineapple dog treat recipe:
- (1) 8 ounce can crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Of course, maybe you’re not the best baker in the world. I understand that, I truly do… Well, no, I don’t. I’m actually a great baker (and also apparently bad at being humble).
Nevertheless, courtesy of Dogster, here are some easy pineapple treat ideas for those that are less adept at making homemade treats:
- Sliced pineapple chunks: The easiest way to share pineapple with your dog is to give him small, fresh chunks of skinned and cored pineapple.
- Frozen pineapple: Blend fresh pineapple and freeze it in small dollops for a frozen treat to share with your dog. You can also add organic yogurt to this recipe for a more ice cream-like consistency.
- Pineapple topping: Add small amounts of pineapple to your dog’s dinner as a built-in dessert.
- Grilled pineapple: Having a barbecue? Throw some slices of pineapple on the grill and share a few with your dog. Just be sure to let the pineapple cool before serving.
To Close
There you have it! Your question, “Can dogs have pineapple?” has been answered along with much, much more. You’ve learned about the healthy nutrients pineapple contains, as well as a delicious recipe and some serving tips.
Surely your pup will enjoy!