Nothing is quite refreshing as a bowl of fresh fruits, and pineapples will always be a staple in the mix.
While humans can enjoy pineapples at any time, as a German shepherd owner, you might wonder if it’s okay to feed your dog some.
If this situation puts you in limbo, worry not, as we’ve got you covered on whether you can feed your German shepherd this tropical, tart, sweet, and tangy fruit.
So, can German shepherds eat pineapples?
Yes.
Pineapples are full of fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals that will be of health benefit to your German shepherd.
They are also a great source of hydration.
As you introduce pineapples to your dog’s diet, remember moderation is key.
Add it in small amounts to prevent stomach upset in your German shepherd, and watch out for any negative reaction.
Before deciding if the pineapple is safe for your German shepherd, it’s advisable that you first understand the risks, health benefits, and what to consider before adding it to its meal.
This article expounds on all that.
Health benefits of pineapples for German shepherds
Hydration
Pineapples will provide your German shepherd with some serious hydration perks as they are 87 percent water.
Hydration will aid in moving nutrients into and out of cells.
This helps remove wastes from the body through urination and bowel movements.
Nutrient absorption
Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain, which assists in the breakdown of proteins and nutrient absorption.
Protein will help build strong and healthy muscles, ligaments, cartilage, skin, nails, and hair in your German shepherd.
It is also involved in making enzymes, antibodies, and hormones and strengthens the dog’s immune system.
If your German shepherd is prone to malabsorption, it will benefit from bromelain.
Supports immune system
Pineapples are full of vitamin C, which help support your German shepherd’s immune system.
Vitamin C also aids in the production of collagen in your pup’s body which ensures joint and bone health.
It also improves energy levels and reduces inflammation.
Red blood cell production
The folate in pineapples is essential in the production of red blood cells.
It is also essential in the production of nucleic cells like DNA.
If you own a pup, folate will aid in its rapid cell growth.
Blood sugar regulation
The high level of antioxidants in pineapples will help regulate your dog’s blood sugar and be good if your dog has diabetes.
High antioxidant levels may also aid in preventing cancer.
Energy production
Pineapples have high quantities of vitamin B6, which promotes energy production in German shepherds by facilitating adequate absorption of fats and proteins.
It is also responsible for hormone regulation and DNA synthesis and promotes a healthy immune system in dogs.
Regular bowel movement
Pineapples have a high fiber content which supports regular bowel movement in German shepherds.
High fiber also makes dogs feel fuller for long, aids in constipation, stabilizes blood sugar, and improves digestion in dogs.
Health concerns of serving tomatoes to your German shepherd
Digestive problems
The high fiber content in pineapples can cause digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation in German shepherds when fed in high quantities.
If your German shepherd has a sensitive stomach, even a small piece of the pineapple will cause digestive problems.
Diabetes
Pineapple has high levels of natural sugar, which can cause diabetes in your German shepherd.
If your dog is diabetic, high quantities of pineapples will worsen the disease.
Tooth decay
Pineapple has a high acid content which can wear down your German shepherd’s tooth enamel causing tooth decay.
Choking hazard
The tough central core of the pineapples can be hard for your German shepherd to chew on, and this can cause a choking hazard.
Similarly, the spiny skin of the pineapples can cause intestinal blockage in your German shepherd as it can be hard to digest.
Allergic reaction
Your German shepherd can have an allergic reaction to pineapples, so it will be wise to watch him closely if you introduce it to his first diet.
Common symptoms of allergic reaction to food include swelling of body parts, vomiting, diarrhea, itching, fever, and lethargy.
How to prepare pineapples for your German shepherd
First, peel the pineapple and discard the skin and core.
Cut the pineapple into small pieces for your German shepherd and prepare it in the following simple ways:
- Mix the pineapples in yogurt with other healthy fruits like watermelon and bananas. The mixture will make a nutrient-filled fruit salad for your German shepherd.
- Freeze a few pineapple pieces and feed your German shepherd as a refreshing, hydrating treat whenever the hot temperatures call for a cool indulgence.
- Puree some yogurt, a couple of chunks of pineapples, and boiled sweet potatoes. Freeze them, and once frozen, you can offer them to your German shepherd as a doggie ice cream treat.
- Dry up the pineapple pieces and feed them to your German shepherd in small portions.
- Mix pineapple chunks, pureed vegetables, yogurt, and water and blend them to make a smoothie that your German shepherd will enjoy lapping up.
How much pineapple is enough for my German shepherd?
Too much of anything will never be good.
When introducing pineapples to your German shepherd’s diet, start with once a week and in small pieces.
If your dog doesn’t negatively react to the pineapple, you can increase the frequency to twice a week.
As you offer your German shepherd pineapple slices, remember the 10 percent rule.
Pineapple shouldn’t make more than 10 percent of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
You can mix other fruits with the pineapple for your German shepherd to reap all the health benefits.
What to consider before feeding your German shepherd pineapples
- Discard the outer skin and core of the pineapple and feed the German shepherd the fleshy parts only.
- If your German shepherd has digestive problems, avoid adding pineapple pieces to its diet, as it can aggravate the problem.
- Moderation is key. The high sugar level in pineapples will be harmful to your German shepherd if fed regularly.
- Contact your vet immediately if an allergic reaction occurs after your German shepherd eats the pineapple.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can dogs eat canned pineapples?
No, dogs cannot eat canned pineapples because the syrup keeping the pineapple fresh is high in sugar which will be harmful to diabetic dogs and senior dogs.
Can dogs drink pineapple juice?
Yes, dogs can drink pineapple juice in small amounts, and not regularly.
The pineapple juice should be fresh and not contain any added sugar.
To wrap up
Small pieces of pineapple will be a nutritious addition to your German shepherd’s diet because of the health benefits it has.
Add the pineapple in moderation, watching for signs of a negative reaction in your dog.
Your German shepherd’s love for this delicious fruit shouldn’t override what’s best for its overall health.
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.
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