Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?

The quick answer: Humans love watermelon in the summertime, and good news - you can share it with your dog!

Benefits of watermelon

Watermelon is a safe and hydrating treat for our four-legged friends. It’s full of H2O (92% of it is water!), vitamins A, B6 and C, which can boost your dog’s immune system, provide a little energy and is also good for their eyes and teeth. It’s a great snack for pups because it replenishes vitamins and refreshes during hot summer months, helping to prevent heat stroke. There’s also only about 50 calories to a cup, so it’s a healthier, low-calorie choice compared to rich meats and cheeses.

Hazards

Here are some important things to remember:

• Remove as many seeds as you can; ingesting too many can cause GI upset like intestinal discomfort or even blockage.
• Same goes for the rind - throw it away because it can cause tummy upset (and if swallowed whole can block airways or digestion).
• As with any new food, watch your dog for potential allergic reactions (or disgust – some dogs are just picky eaters!).
• Don’t overdo it - even though it is a low fat, low calorie option, it is sweet with lots of naturally occurring sugar.
• Consuming large amounts of any type of food, especially ones your pet hasn’t tried before, can cause upset stomach or diarrhea.

Serving suggestions

Offer freshly cut watermelon with the seeds and rind removed as a hydrating snack. You can also puree watermelon and freeze it inside a Kong toy or silicone mold for a refreshing treat on hot summer days.

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