Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?

Yes, in moderation

Serve small amounts, and not every day.

Is watermelon safe for dogs?

Watermelon is a large, juicy summer fruit that is mostly water, with either black seeds or a seedless variety. Seedless watermelon flesh, with the rind removed, is a safe, hydrating treat for most dogs in small amounts.

How to serve watermelon to your dog

Remove all seeds and the rind before serving
Cut it into small, seedless cubes
Offer it as an occasional, hot-weather treat

What to avoid

The rind, which is tough to digest and can cause a blockage
Large amounts of seeds

How much watermelon can my dog have?

Treats, including watermelon, 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.

Emergency? Call your vet or an animal poison hotline straight away: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 (US numbers, a consultation fee may apply).

Frequently asked questions

Can puppies eat watermelon?

Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding watermelon. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.

What if my dog ate too much watermelon?

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 watermelon?

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.