Everyone knows that bananas are super healthy, but what about for dogs?
Here’s the deal:
Sharing is actually a great idea!
In no way are bananas poisonous. In fact, this fruit is fabulous as long as it’s fed in moderation.
You Can Give Your Dog Bananas
Just follow these basic guidelines:
- Always remove the peel
- Slice up the banana into small pieces
- Provide modest portions (more on this later)
- Do not feed your dog bananas all the time. Make it a special treat only
Do Not Go Bananas!
Vitamin C (ascorbate) and B6, fiber and potassium are valuable nutrients.
Your dog can benefit from these vitamins and minerals. You bet!
But you also have to consider a few downsides…
Banana is fairly high in sugar, carbs and calories.
Maumee Bay Veterinary Hospital rightly points out that, “medium bananas have 101 kcal!”
So it makes a lot of sense to limit this fruit to snack status. Bananas are a wonderful choice for a dog treat assuming you don’t overdo it.
How Much Banana?
Note: The following are conservative recommendations.
Large to medium-sized breeds can be given half a banana daily.
Smaller dogs should only eat a few small pieces. Not frequently!
Do not crowd out regular meals. Keep tabs on carbohydrates and calories for your canine.
The Bountiful Benefits
In the world of fruits, ripened banana is truly among the best. The antioxidants are particularly powerful.
Your dog’s skin and coat could benefit. Some joint relief is possible as well.
Ripe is right!
Banana is also heart healthy. Further, the soluble carbs can boost a pet dog’s energy!
For Doggie Digestion
Does your dog have colitis (inflammation of the colon) or other bowel problems?
Ripe bananas may help!
Much like a probiotic, the natural enzymes can soothe intestinal irritation.
Colon spasms (AKA IBS) sometimes respond well to banana which means the fruit could clear up a case of canine constipation.
Conversely, feeding a bunch may have an opposite effect.
So go easy! Otherwise you may temporarily upset your dog’s bowels.
The Potassium Factor
Bananas have a ton of potassium. While healthy, it may not be well-tolerated.
Not to scare you but excessive potassium, or Hyperkalemia, can lead to heart issues.
This doesn’t mean they are toxic.
Personally, we are more concerned with the amount of natural sugar in bananas.
Ideas For K9 Treats
First, an example of a bad treat: processed banana chips.
When it comes to your pet, as best you can, try to avoid providing products that contain unhealthy preservatives.
What’s smart is simply using part of a plain banana as a nutritious reward. Do it!
What else…
How about a banana bread soft chews recipe!
Whipping up a homemade treat is always best.
But, however you ultimately decide to incorporate bananas, remember they often go with raisins as well as nuts. And, for dogs, these can be downright dangerous!
The Bottom Line
Ripe banana is a nice treat for your dog, but don’t get carried away.
The high levels of sugar, calories and carb count are why bananas should be a special treat only.
And, when you do share, be sure to remove peels and prepare slices. Doing this prevents choking and aids digestion.
Bananas, in moderation, are a fantastic reward for your dog.