Feeding the flesh of the jackfruit to your pups is a popular thing among pet owners. Due to its mild taste and health benefits, this is something that is being done more and more often, and in moderation, it is safe.
Unripe jackfruit has a neutral flavor and a meaty texture, so it is commonly added to dog food mixes as a meat substitute. In contrast, jackfruit that has been fully ripened has a flavor that has been described as something like pineapple and banana.
When prepared properly and given in appropriate amounts, jackfruit can be a safe and nutritious snack for your pup to enjoy.
Can Dogs Eat Jackfruit on a Daily Basis?
The jackfruit, sometimes known as the jackfruit tree, is a member of the fig, mulberry, and breadfruit family. It is found in its native habitat of the tropical region between the Western Ghats in India’s southernmost region.
Jackfruit is also found all throughout Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and deep in the rainforests of the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. As a tropical plant, it can be a little challenging to find, which makes some pet owners unfamiliar with it.
Dog owners who can find jackfruit at a local market or specialty produce stand can feed their canine companions this tasty treat in moderation. Daily consumption is not advised, and it could get quite expensive to do so anyway. But as a treat or an occasional addition to mealtime, most dogs are fine with jackfruit.
Before buying this tropical fruit for your pooch, there are several health risks to talk to your vet about and to consider for yourself.
3 Health Risks of Jackfruit for Dogs
One of the biggest risks of adding new food, especially some exotic and tropical like jackfruit to your dog’s diet is a reaction of some kind. Your dog could have unexpected issues with the nutrients and other elements in the fruit, so it is best to talk with your veterinarian before introducing jackfruit to your pup. Consider the following when choosing to add this tropical fruit to your dog’s diet:
1. Choking hazard: The seeds are very hard and can easily be swallowed, which can cause problems. Likewise, the hard and prickling rind of the fruit can be tough to eat and be a big choking hazard. And even if they are swallowed without major issues, they can be difficult to digest and will likely cause an intestinal blockage, which can be deadly for any dog.
2. Toxicity: The seeds of the jackfruit are potent and not that great tasting. This is a natural defense mechanism that helps keep the seeds from being eaten by animals in their natural environment. These chemicals and compounds can be toxic to dogs. The fruit also has a sap-like substance in the rind that contains latex and can be very toxic if ingested.
3. Stomach upset: Any dog can suffer from stomach upset when new foods are added to their diet or changes are made to their normal food regimen too suddenly. Additionally, consuming too much jackfruit can upset your dog’s stomach. This toxicity can lead to gas and bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, so always watch for possible symptoms.
3 Health Benefits of Jackfruit
On the flip side of the coin, there are a number of health benefits that your pup can enjoy if they get jackfruit added to their diet now and then. Jackfruit is rich in nutrients and helps boost canine health in the following ways:
1. Vitamins and minerals: Jackfruit is packed with nutrients and vitamins such as vitamins A, C, B6, B1, potassium, and magnesium. The high antioxidant content helps fight off illness and germs. Additionally, many of the nutrients in jackfruit can improve the health of your dog’s skin, fur, eyes, and nervous system.
2. High fiber: Jackfruit is a food high in healthy fiber, which can hugely impact your pup’s health. It can aid in a healthy digestive system, and proper blood sugar levels, and even promote heart health. Adding Jackfruit is a safe way to improve fiber intake and ensure your pup has a balanced diet.
3. Water content: Jackfruit flesh is mostly water, and the pulp is full of juice, which is good for hydration. Thanks to the high content of water, this fruit helps aid in healthy digestion and food breakdown. It is also believed that the unique composition of jackfruit juice can help with nutrient absorption.
Can Dogs Eat Jackfruit? Better Safe Rather Than Sorry
As pet owners, we want to take care of our furry companions as much as possible. The temptation to feed our canine friends human foods is often high. Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, which is why any changes or additions made need to be approved by a veterinarian beforehand.
Healthy foods and treats are a perfect way to show your pooch how much you love them. However, it is important to remember that too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. So, check with your vet and ask them their opinion on the question of whether can dogs eat jackfruit safely.
