As far as fruits go, mangoes are one of the most delicious options available. People all over the world love mangoes and they are packed with a lot of juicy goodness as well as incredible nutrients. Mangoes are loaded with vitamins, fibres and numerous other essential nutrients/ They are incredibly tasty and healthy for humans. But what about dogs? Can dogs eat mangoes? Well, in this post, we will find out just that and answer all your questions about giving mangoes to your furry pets. Let’s get started.

Can Dogs Eat Mango: All You Need To Know

Can dogs eat mango?

The answer to this question is generally Yes. However, not all vets have the same opinion, so some may not recommend its consumption. We will find out more about this in the ensuing paragraphs.

Is it safe for dogs to eat mangoes?

The mango fruit is composed of 3 parts, the peel, the pulp and the pit or stone. In principle, the peel is not toxic nor is it considered dangerous for a dog. However, given its texture, it can be difficult to digest, causing stomach discomfort and pain.

The pulp handle is the tastiest and nutritious part, being a source of vitamins A, B6, C and E. Also, it is safe for dogs. However, it is also high in sugar, about 46 grams of sugar per mango on average. This poses a risk to the health of dogs in the long term, especially for dogs with a tendency to gain excess weight.

The seed, a potential danger

The seed, on the other hand, is the most dangerous part of the mango. Although it is not listed as toxic or dangerous, its size makes it a potential risk of intestinal obstruction. Among the symptoms that you may notice in a dog with an obstruction of his gastrointestinal system, are:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite or anorexia
• Constipation or small amounts of stool
• Lethargy
• Aggressive behavior, especially when carried or grasped from the abdomen

The aforementioned symptoms can occur with an intestinal obstruction caused by any foreign element, not necessarily related to mango.

Neither the Pet Poison Control, nor the ASPCA (American Association for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) includes mango as a toxic or dangerous fruit for dogs. Still, it is important to take into consideration the information that we mentioned above.

What are the health benefits of mangoes for dogs?

Mangoes offer several benefits to humans, such as their high content of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, cholesterol lowering and weight loss. In the same way, our dogs can benefit and improve their health, when consumed in moderation.

Mango is a rich source of various vitamins and micronutrients. A portion of 100 g provides:

• 65 Calories
• Carbohydrates 17 g (6%)
• Fiber 1.8 g (7%)
• Vitamin A 765 IU (15%)
• Vitamin C 27.7 mg (46%)
• Vitamin E 1.1 mg (6%)
• Vitamin K 4.2 mcg (5%)
• Thiamine 0.1 mg (4%)
• Vitamin B6 0.1 mg (7%)
• Folate 14 mcg (3%)
• Calcium 10 mg (1%)
• Potassium 156 mg (4%)

Mango does not contain cholesterol and has a low glycemic index, which makes it an ideal fruit for patients suffering from diabetes. Among the main benefits of mango for dogs, we have:

• It contains enzymes that facilitate the processing and digestion of protein. In the same way, the fiber it contains allows an efficient functioning of the digestive tract.
• Mango pulp contains prebiotics, which help maintain a proper balance in the intestinal flora.
• The high content of vitamin C helps support the immune system. In the same way, these antioxidants reduce cellular oxidation, preventing the appearance of certain diseases such as cancer.
• Vitamin A helps maintain good vision and keep bones strong and healthy. Also, its antioxidant effects help the immune system, especially to prevent degeneration of the macula or age-related loss of vision.
• It is a fruit with a low glycemic index, in other words, the sugar is slowly released into the blood, which prevents sudden spikes in blood glucose levels.

How many mangoes can dogs eat?

Before you give mangoes to a dog, you must remove the peel and remove the seed. Although there is no prohibition on this, the peel can be difficult to digest. On the other hand, the seed can cause obstruction or danger of suffocation.

As with any new food that we offer our dogs, and although it is unlikely to occur, we must pay attention to if they show signs of allergy. Before feeding your dog mangoes or any other food, consult your veterinarian, especially if your dog suffers from a specific medical condition.

To ensure that the portion of mango that you offer your dog is totally safe, you should follow these steps:

1. Offer ripe mangoes as they taste better for dogs.
2. Remember to limit the portion to 10% of the total daily meal, if you offer it as a reward.
3. Wash and disinfect the handle to remove traces of pesticides or bacteria and parasites.
4. Remove all the peel and remove the pit.
5. Cut the pulp into sizes suitable for your dog’s mouth.
6. You can freeze the mango pieces to offer them as a frozen snack.

So the answer to the question “can dogs eat mango” is a resounding YES. Mangoes are nutritionally dense and incredibly delicious. As long as you get rid of the peel and pit before feeding your dogs. So next time mango season comes along, sit down with your beloved dog and feed him as much mango as he can eat. Bon appetit!