As humans, we love fruit, including pears. It is natural to want to share the things we love with our dogs. Sometimes this tendency gets our dogs into trouble. Most pet owners know that not all fruits and veggies are safe for dogs, but can dogs eat pears? Luckily for our canine companions, the answer is yes.
Are Pears Good for Dogs?
In moderation, pears are a healthy snack, full of vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. Just because pears are safe for dogs to eat does not mean your dog should eat a lot of them on a regular basis. Just with any food you give your dog, too many pears could lead to an upset stomach. So how much is too much?
Veterinarians recommend limiting your dog’s treat consumption to 10% of their daily food intake. For small dogs, this means that one slice of pear every now and then, while a whole pear is probably too much. We also have a list of fruits and vegetables that dogs can and can’t eat.
Risks of Feeding Pears to Dogs
There are a few risks associated with feeding pears to dogs. In fact, even dog-safe foods like pears can be a choking hazard. Before feeding pears to your dog, cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces and monitor your dog carefully as they eat to prevent choking.
Can Dogs Eat Pear Seeds?
Can dogs eat pears’ seeds? Dogs shouldn’t eat the seeds from pears, which contain traces of the toxin cyanide. As tempting as it is to toss your dog your leftover pear core, avoid giving your dog the parts of pears with seeds in them. Pear seeds are toxic in large quantities and can also cause choking.
Can Dogs Eat Canned Pears?
Canned pears are not good for dogs, just like most canned fruit. Canned pears contain too much sugar, which can irritate your dog’s digestive tract and lead to dog obesity. Fresh, ripe pears are the best pears to feed to dogs.
It is always a good idea to ask your veterinarian before starting to give your dog a new treat. Your veterinarian has years of experience and knowledge that can help you keep your dog safe from harmful people foods, and they can also help you find other healthy snacks that are safe for dogs to eat.