Nectarines can be fed to dogs as a treat on occasion. Learn about the health benefits of nectarines and the best ways to feed them to your dog.
Can Dogs Consume or Eat Nectarines?
Dogs can eat nectarines in moderation. Nectarines are high in vitamins and antioxidants while being low in calories. However, because they are stone fruits, they contain a pit that can be harmful to dogs if consumed. Nectarines are high in dietary fiber but high in sugar, which can cause health problems in dogs if given as a treat too frequently.
3 Nectarines Health Benefits for Dogs
Nectarines are a refreshing summer treat that is also good for your pet's health. They are as follows:
1. Mineral-rich: Nectarines contain minerals such as magnesium and potassium. Magnesium promotes bone health and increases the efficiency with which your dog's body absorbs vitamins and produces enzymes, whereas potassium supports muscle and nerve functions.
2. Beneficial to digestive health: The fruit is an excellent source of fiber for your dog's diet. The high fiber content of nectarines helps your dog's digestive system by preventing constipation.
3. High in vitamins and nutrients: Nectarines are high in phyto-nutrients and antioxidants, which aid in the immune system of your dog. These summer fruits are high in beta-carotene, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
The Dangers of Feeding Nectarines to Dogs
Before feeding nectarines to your dog, keep the following points in mind:
1. Nectarine pits can cause choking. The pit or stone poses several health risks to your dog. Nectarine pits are dangerous because they can choke your dog or cause a blockage in his digestive system. Pits also contain trace amounts of cyanide, which causes illness and, in extreme cases, death in small dogs. If you suspect your dog has become ill after eating a nectarine pit, a peach pit, or a pit from another stone fruit such as plums or apricots, look for signs of cyanide poisoning such as drooling, vomiting, or dilated pupils.
2. Dogs are poisoned by rotten fruit. Fresh nectarines should always be fed to your dog. Rotting fruit causes a variety of health problems, ranging from stomach upset to mycotoxin poisoning, which is caused by mold that grows on fruits and other foods. Fruit that is decaying also produces ethanol, which is toxic to dogs and necessitates immediate medical attention. Ataxia, or loss of muscle control, and repeated vomiting are symptoms of both toxins.
3. They contain a lot of sugar. Excess sugar consumption can cause stomach upset or tooth decay in your dog. The added sugar is also harmful to dogs who suffer from obesity or diabetes. Avoid feeding canned fruits to your dog because the syrup in the can contains a lot of sugar.
How to Cook Nectarines for Dogs
To feed nectarines to your dog, prepare the fruit as follows:
1. Wash all of your fresh fruit. Before preparing the juicy fruit for your dog, rinse it to remove pesticides and preservatives. Give your dog only ripe, fresh fruit and keep an eye out for decay, which poses a health risk. Remove any rotten parts.
2. Remove the pit and serve in small portions. Remove the pit and cut the fruit into small pieces to avoid a choking hazard and digestive issues in your dog.
