Can Dogs Eat Banana?

A key responsibility among pet owners is to ensure that those in their care receive a well-balanced diet filled with nutrients needed for a long, fulfilling life. But given how humans hold different physiology to our pets, it can be challenging to understand which foods are best for them.

For example, we can enjoy a wide range of fruits, but a common question asked is, ‘Can dogs eat bananas?’
What about the peels?

And if so, how often should we include this fruit into their diet for optimal nutrition?

To help, this article will explore whether bananas are good or bad for dogs, as well as how often they should be present in their diet.

Are Bananas Good for Dogs?

So, can dogs have bananas in their diet?

The answer is yes!

Bananas are a safe and popular food source for dogs, offering one of the best fruit snacks available (when consumed in moderation). They are an excellent source of key nutrients, including:

• Vitamin B6: Necessary in the ongoing production of glucose, regulating hormones, and aiding the appropriate function of red blood cells and the nervous system.
• Vitamin C: An essential antioxidant that works to reduce inflammation within the body, as well as expel free radicals.
• Potassium: An electrolyte that promotes electrical charges throughout your dog’s nerves, muscles, and heart.

Many pet owners are aware of several fruits and vegetables dogs find toxic, such as avocados, cherries, grapes and tomatoes. Fortunately, bananas are a good, healthy snack for dogs as they do not contain any of these harmful ingredients.

With that said, it’s worth repeating that bananas should only be given in small amounts as a treat, and not as a large portion of their diet.

Can Dogs Eat Banana Peels?

Speaking of fruits that are bad for dogs, it’s no secret that there are many out there where specifically the peel is toxic. For example, orange peels contain toxic compounds which can prove extremely harmful to your pup when consumed, causing distress and potential blockages to their digestive system.

A banana peel, however, is not toxic, and if your dog happens to steal a whole banana before you have a chance to remove the skin, they should be fine. This may introduce them to more fibre than they’re used to, which could cause some difficulties during digestion, so it is still best to prevent them from eating the peel whenever possible. Instead, always make a habit of peeling the fruit and cutting it into bite-sized serving sizes before letting your dog eat it.

Can My Dog Have Too Much Banana?

While this particular fruit can offer a selection of nutritional benefits, it also contains a high level of natural sugars that can lead to weight gain in dogs if fed too many bananas. Weight gain can cause many other harmful conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and even some cancers. They may also experience periods of intense stomach upset and diarrhoea, or intestinal blockages, which can be very serious and may even require surgery if they persist.

Naturally, these issues with sugar only exacerbate when dogs eat banana bread, banana chips or other processed foods in high quantities.

Owners should view bananas more like a tasty treat and serve them to their pups in moderation or as an occasional pick-me-up. If you are concerned about overfeeding, try to limit their consumption to once or twice a week (perhaps less if you have a smaller dog).

How to Feed Your Dog Bananas

As a Nutritious Snack

The simplest way to feed your dog bananas is to cut them into bite-sized pieces and use them as a treat or reward. The small pieces make it easy for your dog to eat and digest, but this also makes a great way to simultaneously give your dog a healthy and delicious snack while introducing a new tool to help practise desirable behaviours. For example, owners can quickly peel and cut up a ripe banana and use the pieces as a reward for sitting politely, not barking, or accepting strangers – or simply as a treat for them to enjoy!

Mashed with Kibble

If you’re looking for a fun way to change up your dog’s meals and introduce some extra flavour and nutrition, another option is to mash a banana into your dog’s kibble. Simply mash the banana with a fork and then mix it into your dog’s kibble until it has been fully integrated. This is a great way to add a bit of variety to your dog’s diet, sweetening the flavour of everyday meals and ensuring that your dog is getting the most out of their food. The mashed banana will add some extra moisture to the kibble and make it more palatable for your pup.

Frozen

Frozen bananas can be a fun and refreshing treat for your dog, especially on hot days. All you need to do is slice up a banana into manageable, bite-sized pieces and place them in the freezer for a few hours. Your dog is sure to enjoy the different textures and temperatures.

A frozen banana is a great way to provide a refreshing treat for your dog and help them cool down internally on hot days. It also provides a different texture than a fresh banana and can be a fun and exciting treat for them.

Finding the Best Dog Food For Your Dog

While it can be beneficial to introduce your furry friend to new foods, it can also be quite tricky to manage their broader nutritional needs with a host of different meals. As such, most owners will look for balanced dog foods that hold the right elements to deliver a well-rounded diet meeting their dog’s individual needs and preferences.

When making your selection, be sure to review those with the right mix of:

• Macronutrients (such as protein, fat, and carbohydrates): These are essential for providing energy and building muscle.
• Micronutrients (such as vitamins and minerals): These elements are necessary for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and overall well-being.

Hypro Premium has a complete selection of grain-free products, wholegrain products, and treats designed specifically to give your pup the ideal balance needed within their diet. Explore our range today.