Can Dogs Eat Dates

Can Dogs Eat Dates

Author WDF Staff

02.10.2021.


Dates are one of the sweetest, most delicious fruits you can eat. It is often served as a substitute for something sweet, and you can be sure your dog will want to grab a bite of anything you’re eating. Before you give some dates to your dog, make sure you know the answer to the question, “Can dogs eat dates?” Well, the answer is - yes.

Dates might be alright for your dog to eat, but there are a few things you should be careful about. If they aren’t properly given to dogs, they can cause some problems. Here’s what you should know about it.

dried dates

Are dates good for dogs?

If fed accordingly, dates can be good for dogs. This is a low-calorie, cholesterol-free fruit that is absolutely delicious. It is packed with healthy nutrients, and you shouldn’t be surprised humans love them. They can even offer some health benefits to your dog. Some of the best nutrients dates contain are;

  • Vitamin A
  • Several B vitamins
  • Vitamin C
  • Potassium
  • Fiber
  • Magnesium
  • Iron
  • Protein

Vitamin C is something we humans need in our diet because we cannot produce it. However, dogs can, and they shouldn’t eat foods that pack a vitamin C punch.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Before you include something new, like dates, into your dog’s diet, make sure you talk to your vet. Your vet can give you the best advice regarding your dog’s individual diet.

Can they be bad?

Dates contain nutrients that seem pretty healthy and good. However, dogs have different nutritional needs than we do. To them, too much of a “good” thing can be bad. Dates contain a lot of natural sugars, and they can quickly destroy the dog’s teeth and even lead to obesity. Another possible issue too much natural sugar can cause is high blood pressure. If your dog eats too many dates, they can get bloodshot eyes, loss of appetite, hyperactivity, vomit, and get nausea.

fresh red dates

Another potential issue is fiber. Dietary fiber might be crucial for your dog’s diet, but too much of it can cause gastrointestinal distress. Small bites might be good for dogs that have diarrhea, but there are better ways to get some fiber in your dog than dates.

How to include dates in your dog’s diet?

If you love eating dates and you often have them at home, it might be difficult to resist giving some to your dog. If you want to give them some, make sure you know how to do it safely. The best way to do it is by chopping dates into small pieces. Make sure you don’t allow your dog to eat too many, and remember the phrase - PORTION CONTROL.

World Dog Finder team

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