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Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Is dragon fruit safe for dogs?
Dragon fruit, also called pitaya, is a tropical cactus fruit with soft white or pink flesh and tiny black seeds. The flesh is non-toxic and can be an occasional low-fat treat, but it is sugary and fibrous, so too much can cause loose stools.
How to serve dragon fruit to your dog
- Peel off the skin and serve only the soft flesh
- Cut it into small pieces, especially for small dogs
- Offer one piece first and watch for stomach upset
What to avoid
- The tough outer skin
- Dried or candied dragon fruit with added sugar
How much dragon fruit can my dog have?
Treats, including dragon fruit, should stay under about 10% of your dog's daily calories. As a rough starting point, small dogs can have 1 to 2 bite-size pieces, medium dogs 2 to 4, and large dogs a small handful. Introduce it slowly and do not make it a daily habit.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat dragon fruit?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding dragon fruit. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my dog ate too much dragon fruit?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
How often can my dog have dragon fruit?
Treat it as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult dog, and less for small ones.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Dragon Fruit?