Fresh, juicy pears are a treat most of us enjoy. We also like to share the foods we enjoy with our dogs. Unfortunately, not all people foods are good for our canine companions.
Pears are one of those rare fruits that dogs can eat without complications, as long as moderation is used. So go ahead and enjoy a fresh pear, and slice a few small chunks off for your dog too.
Pear Nutrition
Pear are rich in vitamins C, K and A, plus the fruit has a high fiber content. Pears also contain trace amounts of copper and protein. All of these nutritional elements are good for dogs with the exception of the fiber.
Digestion Issues
The digestive system of canines and humans are different; we need fiber to promote good digestion and elimination, dogs do not.
When a dog consumes too much dietary fiber it will lead to stomach upset and diarrhea. An occasional small chunk or two from a fresh pear will not create digestion issues for your dog, but frequent feedings of fruit will cause your canine companion to have stomach problems.
Risks
A whole or half of a fresh pear (or the pear core) presents choking risks for a dog. Always give small peeled, de-seeded chunks or slices to them as a treat.
Seeds and peel pose certain risks for dogs. Peel the pear to ensure the dog is not eating any residual pesticides that may still remain on the pear. The tough pear peel can also become lodged between their teeth and cause dental issues too.
The pear seeds are a choking hazard for small dogs and could cause internal issues if digested by any size dog. Remove seeds from pear slice before feeding to your dog.
Canned Pears
Canned pears contain added sugar and preservatives which will irritate your dogs digestive system. The extra sugar in canned pears may contribute to canine obesity and a host of related health issues. Only feed your dog a small amount of fresh pears, never canned pears.
