Yes, with pits removed, dogs can eat prunes in moderation. Prunes are a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion. However, as with any human food, it is generally advised that you feed prunes to your dog in moderation, as too many prunes can cause digestive distress.
Safe: This food is generally considered safe by the veterinary community. Dogs can eat this food sometimes or in small amounts but contains little to no nutritional value.
| Food Safety | Safe, in small amounts |
| Nutritional Issues | Vitamin A, Fiber, Potassium1 |
| Potential Risks | Abdominal Pain, Vomiting, Lack of Appetite |
Prunes: What Are They Exactly?
Fun fact: prunes are dried plums that are typically treated with a preservative to extend their shelf life. Like plums, they boast an impressive nutritional profile for humans, being rich in potassium, antioxidants, and fiber. Their consumption is widely thought to confer a range of benefits, including improving digestion, lowering cholesterol, and promoting bone health.
But Are Prunes Good For Dogs?
The short answer is that dogs can consume prunes, albeit not without some potential risks. While prunes are generally safe for dogs to consume in small quantities, larger doses can result in digestive issues, particularly in dogs with sensitive stomachs or those that are prone to gastrointestinal problems.
The Burden of Fiber
One of the primary concerns surrounding the feeding of prunes to dogs is their high fiber content. While fiber is undoubtedly an essential component of any healthy diet, excessive fiber consumption can lead to a range of digestive problems, such as constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. The high fiber content of prunes, therefore, makes them a potentially problematic snack for dogs if quantities are not carefully monitored.
Sugar: A Double-Edged Sword
Another concern surrounding prunes’ suitability for canine diets is their high sugar content, which comes in the form of fructose. Dried fruits like figs and dates, also have these high fructose levels. Sugar, as we all know, can cause a range of health issues when consumed in large quantities, including weight gain, tooth decay, and diabetes. Dogs are, of course, not immune to these risks, and excessive sugar consumption can lead to digestive upset, obesity, and other health issues.
The Peril of Pits
Another factor to consider when it comes to feeding prunes to dogs is the presence of pits. The small amounts of cyanide are concerning, but pits can pose a choking hazard, particularly in smaller dogs. Intestinal blockages would be another serious concern that could quickly require emergency care. All that considered, it’s essential to remove the pits from prunes (and any other stone fruit for that matter) before feeding them to dogs.
Feeding Prunes to Dogs: Tips and Considerations
If you are considering feeding prunes to your dog, there’s no downside to consulting your veterinarian first. Your vet can help determine whether prunes are a beneficial snack for your pup based on their individual health needs. You may also want to get a suggestion on the appropriate serving amounts from them directly.
Generally speaking, vets will tend to approve feeding prunes to dogs in moderation. Limit the amount to a small piece or two per day, and monitor your pet for any signs of digestive upset. Removing the pits from prunes before feeding them to your dog is also essential to minimize the risk of choking or intestinal blockages.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
No, it is not a good choice to give your dog dried prunes.
-
Pitted prunes are not recommended for dogs as they contain high amounts of sugar.
-
Dogs should not have prune juice because there is generally more sugar or added sugar.
