If you are asking yourself “Can Dogs Eat Kiwi?”, we got the answer and everything you need to know before feeding your dog a kiwi fruit.

Kiwi is a delightful treat that dogs can enjoy in moderation. It is packed with nutrients that are beneficial for your pet, but it is essential to introduce it into their diet correctly and consider the dog’s overall health and dietary needs. The real question is, will your dog like Kiwi?

Is Kiwi Safe For Dogs?

Kiwi is non-toxic to dogs and can be included in their diet in small quantities. The proper preparation and serving size ensure that the fruit is safe for dogs to consume, eliminating risks such as choking or digestive discomfort.

Is Kiwi Good For Dogs?

Kiwifruit, abundant in vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, can be a beneficial addition to a dog’s diet, promoting digestive health among other benefits. However, it’s vital to monitor the quantity consumed to avoid any potential gastrointestinal issues. Many fruits like apples, pears and bananas are also great for dogs.

How Much Kiwi Can Dogs Eat?

The portion of kiwi served should correspond with the dog’s size, starting with smaller portions to introduce the new food slowly and monitor their body’s reaction. For a 10kg dog, an appropriate portion of kiwi would be a small slice or segment, approximately up to 1/4 of a medium-sized kiwi, given as an occasional treat. Remember that treats, including fruits, should not constitute more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. If you’re unsure or have concerns, always consult with your veterinarian.

3 Health Risks That Kiwis Pose for Dogs

1. Digestive Upsets: Consuming kiwi in larger quantities can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort in dogs, manifesting symptoms like an upset stomach or diarrhea. This is due to the high fiber and water content in the fruit.
2. Choking Hazards: If kiwis are not adequately prepared, for example, served without peeling and cutting into smaller, manageable pieces, they can pose a choking risk to dogs.
3. Sugar Content: Kiwis contain natural sugars, which, in excess, can affect a dog’s health, particularly for those with conditions like diabetes, as it may cause fluctuations in their blood sugar levels.

How to Introduce Kiwi Into a Dog’s Diet

Introducing kiwi into a dog’s diet should be done gradually to monitor for any allergic reactions or digestive issues. “Some dogs just don’t tolerate things other than their own food,” says Dr. Ann Hohenhaus, a staff doctor at New York City’s Animal Medical Center. Start by offering a small piece of fresh kiwi, making sure it’s ripe and peeled. Give this as a treat and observe your dog for any adverse reactions over the next 24 hours. If your dog tolerates it well, you can gradually increase the amount over time, but always ensure it remains a minor part of their diet, serving it in moderation to avoid any stomach upset.

When introducing anything new, especially human food, start off gradually to see how your dog reacts.

How to Prep Kiwi for Dogs

Remove the Skin

It is advised to peel the kiwi before serving it to dogs as the skin can be a bit tough for them to digest and may pose potential choking risks. However, if you have organic kiwis and want to feed them to your dog with skin, make sure to wash them thoroughly and cut them into small pieces.

Don’t Feed Whole Kiwi

Serving the kiwi in smaller, bite-sized portions is recommended, ensuring it is manageable for the dog to consume. It is also way less messy!

Can Dogs Eat Kiwi Skin?

The skin of the kiwi, while not toxic, can be hard for dogs to digest and is better avoided to prevent any possible digestive discomfort.

Can Dogs Eat Kiwi Seeds?

Kiwi seeds are generally safe for dogs to consume, not posing any significant risks such as choking or blockages, because they are very small.

Conclusion

Kiwi can be a refreshing and healthy treat for dogs when served with consideration of the pet’s size and overall health, ensuring that it is offered in suitable portions and adequately prepared. If your dog does however have any previous conditions, it is advisable that you speak with a vet before incorporating new fruits into their diet.