Like many tropical fruits, mangoes are a popular healthy snack. The fruit is native to India and Asia, with nearly 500 different varieties growing around the world. Today, you might enjoy them in smoothies, breakfast cereals, or on their own as a refreshing appetizer. But have you ever wondered if your dog can enjoy mango, too?
Are Mangos Safe for Dogs to Eat?
The short answer is, yes – mangoes are non-toxic for dogs and safe for them to eat. Mangoes contain important vitamins for dogs, like vitamins A, B6, and E, as well as fiber for optimal GI health. Many dogs enjoy the sweet taste of mangoes, making them a perfect low-calorie snack.
However, some veterinarians do not recommend mango as a snack. While they agree the fruit’s flesh is safe for dog consumption, some say the high sugar content is unhealthy and may lead to health complications in the future if unmoderated.
Possible Dangers of Mango for Dogs
When mangoes are ripe they are soft enough for dogs to eat safely, but dog owners should cut them into small pieces to prevent choking or aspiration. It’s also important to peel the fruit completely and remove the pit, which can pose a serious choking risk. Mango pits can lodge is a dog’s digestive tract, causing impaction, discomfort, and pain. It also contains a small amount of the toxin cyanide, which can lead to severe illness.
Mango skins are not toxic, but they are hard to digest. To avoid gastrointestinal discomfort, it’s important to remove the skin you prepare mango as a snack for your dog.
In the event your dog swallows a mango pit, pay close attention to his behaviors. In some cases, it will pass throughout your dog’s GI tract without causing any abnormalities, but when your dog stops eating (or begins to eat less), it’s a sign he or she needs medical attention. Contact your vet immediately if your dog’s eating habits change after swallowing a mango pit, or if he experiences the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and tenderness
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Lethargy
- Aggressive behaviors when touched around his abdomen
As with any fruit, only feed mango to your dog in moderation. The fruit is mildly acidic and contains high amounts of natural sugars, which can make his or her stomach hurt and cause diarrhea. If you have any other concerns about your dog eating mangoes, it’s important to speak with your vet before offering them to him or her as a snack.
