If you've ever tried to open a pomegranate, you know that the seeds tend to go flying. So in the case your dog gobbles a few up, know that they'll likely be OK.
Pomegranates aren't toxic to dogs, but there are some things you should avoid doing when serving up this sweet treat.
(Even though pomegranates are generally safe for dogs, always consult your vet before introducing new foods to their diet.)
Your dog should digest small amounts of pomegranate just fine, Dr. Emily Singler, VMD, Fetch’s on-staff veterinarian, explains — but it's always good to check with your vet to be sure of that.
Before sharing a pomegranate with your pup, remove the fruit’s rind and stem, as both parts can cause an obstruction. If dogs eat too much pomegranate, they can also experience vomiting, diarrhea or intestinal obstruction.
As far as health benefits, pomegranate contains fiber, potassium and antioxidants, Dr. Singler says. However, treats shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake, so it’s unlikely that their health status will change after eating the snack.
If you’re serving this fruit to your pup, it’s important to avoid giving them chocolate-covered pomegranate, as that addition is toxic to dogs.
“Most food allergies in dogs present as vomiting and/or diarrhea or skin irritation and itchiness,” Dr. Singler shares. “Dogs don’t typically have anaphylactic-type allergic reactions to foods like some humans do.”
Contact your veterinarian if you think your pup is allergic to pomegranate. They can advise you on the best next steps — and Dr. Singler warns against attempting to make your dog throw up unless your pet’s doctor advises otherwise.
RELATED: Can dogs eat cranberries?
Talk to your veterinarian about how pomegranate supplements can benefit your pup. According to Dr. Singler, they’re usually considered a safer option than feeding your dog the fruit as-is because they don’t risk intestinal obstruction and are less likely to cause vomiting and diarrhea.
“Supplements have been shown to help with digestion and to have antioxidant properties that can also help keep dog food fresh if they’re added to it,” Dr. Singler adds.
We’re confident that pomegranate isn’t the only human food your dog would love to sink their teeth into (cue the drool). Check out our series “Can dogs eat ... ?” to learn more about which human foods are off-limits and what’s fair game.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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