Yes, but there are a few things you need to watch out for when giving your dog guava.
For instance, since guava is a rich source of vitamin C, it may help support your dog’s immune system.
Nevertheless, too much of it can cause diarrhea or other digestive problems.
Moreover, its high sugar content can cause weight gain.
So how much should you give your dog?
Check with your vet before giving Fido any unusual foods.
Benefits of Guava for Dogs
As a member of the myrtle family, guava is rich in vitamins A, B6, C, E, niacin, thiamine, and riboflavin. It also contains potassium, calcium, and magnesium. These nutrients help maintain your dog’s health and support his immune system. Vitamin C also helps promote the dog’s body healing, and repair.
Guava is vital for dogs recovering from surgery or illness because its vitamin C can reduce the severity of post-surgical infections.
It is a good source of fiber, which can help relieve constipation in dogs with dietary issues such as colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Guava is low in calories and fiber, which helps keep your pet’s digestive system healthy.
It’s an excellent source of antioxidants, which have been shown to help prevent cell damage and improve overall health. Therefore, dogs with arthritis or other joint disorders can benefit from it.
It has an antifungal property that may help prevent yeast infections in dogs with allergies or sensitive skin types. However, always consult with your vet before giving your dog any new food or supplement.
Guava Risks for Dogs
While guava is safe for most dogs to eat in moderation, there are some risks associated with them overeating certain types of this fruit:
It can cause gastrointestinal distress
If your dog overeats this fruit, it could experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Guava consumption does not directly cause this problem, but pectin in this fruit has been linked to gas and bloating. To avoid this side effect, feed your dog a small piece occasionally.
It’s not good for dogs that have kidney disease or diabetes
Guava has a high sugar content, which can spike blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs, and those with kidney disease. This can potentially lead to severe complications. If your dog has either condition, talk with their veterinarian before feeding them any fruit.
Guavas are not good for dogs who have allergies or sensitivity to histamines. Such dogs may experience an allergic reaction after ingesting them. For young puppies, avoid feeding them guavas until they’re old enough to eat more significant pieces of food safely (around six months).
Dogs can develop a vitamin A deficiency if they eat too many guavas. These fruits have a high concentration of carotenoids, interfering with their body’s ability to absorb vitamin A from other sources.
Guavas contain oxalates, naturally occurring chemicals found in plants and animals. Some dogs have trouble digesting oxalates because they lack an enzyme that breaks them down before reaching their digestive tract. So excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal problems like vomiting and diarrhea.
Guava does contain more sugar than many other fruits, which can lead to cavities in your dog’s teeth if you don’t limit their consumption.
Some types of guava may have higher acidity levels than others and may irritate your dog’s mouth, or esophagus when eaten before it ripens fully.
Suppose your dog ingests excess guava fruit, you may notice symptoms like; vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures.
In such a case, take him to the vet.
Can Dogs Eat Guava?
Yes, guava is a healthy treat for dogs. Ensure to feed your dog in moderation and only when it’s ripe. However, its seeds are very dangerous because they contain large amounts of amygdalin, also known as prunasin or laetrile.
Final Word
Guavas are generally easier for your dog’s digestive system than apples or pears, which contain more sugar and require more digestion.
In addition to their vitamins and minerals, they are a good source of fiber for dogs.
Add some to your dog’s diet and see how it goes.
Avoid giving him too much as the sugar in the guavas can cause diarrhea.
As long as the offering stays below five percent of your dog’s daily consumption, he should be fine.
Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
