Dogs have different nutritional needs than humans. That’s why you need to think twice before feeding your canine. Some fruits can be beneficial for dogs. Although some types of fruits should not be given to them. But can dogs eat guava? Yes, dogs can eat guava and it’s good for them.
Guava is an exotic fruit that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s healthy for canines as long as you don’t overfeed your pup with it. Feeding fruits to dogs is recommended so that they can get the essential nutrients they need. If you’re still unsure, keep on reading to learn more.
Is Guava Safe for Dogs?
Yes, guava is safe for dogs to eat so you can feed it to your pup. Even the rind is not toxic for canines. It can be eaten without peeling it which makes it easy to prepare. The seeds should be removed as these can be a choking hazard. It’s easy to remove so you don’t have to worry.
Feeding guava to your dog doesn’t have a lot of risks involved. Although overfeeding guava to your pup can cause serious tummy aches, diarrhea, or vomiting. Even if the guava rind is safe for dogs, it’s best to just avoid giving it to them. It’s harder to chew and the seeds can choke your dog.
Guava has an anti-diarrheal compound which is called pectin. If your canine is having diarrhea, feeding the guava will help with that. However, if your dog is constipated, it will be a problem. It’s best to skip feeding guava if your pup has this concern. Check with the vet to be sure.
Guava should be safe for your dog, whatever variety or form it may be. Ripe guavas are the best since they are sweeter and softer. It will be easier for your dog to chew and enjoy this tasty snack. Unlike other fruits, it has a smooth peel which dogs can also eat. Don’t overfeed guava to your dog to avoid any problems.
Benefits of Guava to Dogs
Guava is a tasty fruit that’s packed with nutrients. Dogs will enjoy eating guava occasionally. Like other fruits, ripe guava contains a lot of sugar. The key is to ensure to give a moderate amount. Even if it’s healthy and nutritious, too much of something can be bad. But here are the benefits of guava for canines.
- Vitamin C
Guava contains vitamin C for a stronger immune system. Dogs can absorb this nutrient by eating guava. It will help them to fight diseases. Consuming food with vitamin C is recommended. Especially if the dog is pregnant or nursing. If the dog is sick, feeding food with vitamin C will help them recover faster.
This type of antioxidant will fight the harmful substances that enter the canine’s body. Feeding your dog some guava will help to support their health and immunity. The vitamin C in guava can help to prevent stress, bacterial infections, and kennel cough. It’s helpful for canines to avoid spinal issues and hip dysplasia.
- Vitamin A, K, and B Vitamins
These vitamins can be found in guava. Offering it to your pup will benefit them to have better cell function from vitamin A. While vitamin K helps with bone health and avoids blood clots to form. Both vitamins A and K are needed for canines’ healthy metabolism. Just make sure not to overfeed guava to your constipated dog.
B vitamins are also present in guava. It supports the dog’s neurochemical synthesis. There are enough B vitamins in guava to keep your dog healthy. Vitamin A is responsible for a healthy reproductive process. It’s also best for dogs that are lacking in vitamin A. While vitamin B will preserve the balance of your dog’s neurotransmitters.
- Iron and Fiber
As a dog owner, you want your pup to have all the nutrients they need. Of course, to have that, you need to feed your dog the right amounts of nutrients. Guava happens to have iron. It helps in the production of red blood cells. Guava will help canines to have healthy blood cells.
Aside from iron, this fruit also contains fiber. It contains a lot but it’s enough for dogs to benefit from it. Fiber aids digestion and bowel movement regularly. It’s essential to have a healthy gut for dogs.
- Potassium and Magnesium
Potassium can be found in guava and it’s a high amount. It’s exactly 417 grams per 100 grams of guava. These will make muscles grow faster. It should also keep the organs in great shape. In dogs, potassium can break down fats and carbs to make their digestive system work better.
While potassium has a lot of advantages for your dog’s body, they also need to have magnesium. It absorbs excess zinc and potassium for canines. Potassium improves cognitive performance, controls PH levels, and encourages organ functions. Magnesium will help dogs to relax when they’re in pain or just upset.
How to Prepare Guava for Your Dog
Guava should be offered to your dog in moderation. Just like other fruits, it has high sugar content especially when ripe. It’s best to monitor their sugar intake. Too much sugar will end up in stomach aches or diarrhea. Consuming a lot of guavas will lead to constipation in other cases.
There are different types of guava but most of them are safe for dogs. However, there are some things to consider before feeding guava to your pup. Be careful when it comes to the quantity over the size of the dog. Big or small canines should not consume too much guava for their size.
Regardless of how big your dog is, guava seeds should be removed. If your dog consumes a lot of seeds, it may end up in a serious problem. A few seeds ingested are fine but a lot of them can lead to intestinal issues. The best thing to do is to get rid of the seeds and rinds before feeding.
Ripe guavas should be given in small amounts. It’s a healthy fruit for dogs but this should not be their regular meal. A small piece of guava can be offered as an occasional treat or snack. If your dog’s response after eating guava is bad, stop giving more. It may not be a good idea for your dog.
Photo Credits:
Guava Fruit (Unsplash)
Guava Cut Up On Plate (Unsplash)
