Not only are they lovely to look at, but pomegranates are the crown-jewels of superfoods. The perfect combination of both sweet and tart flavoring, this fruit is a pain to pull apart. But once you manage to get to the juicy goodness in the middle, you can enjoy a nutritiously dense treat packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, fiber, protein, potassium, and vitamins C and K.
But can you share the health benefits of pomegranates with your pet? The simple answer is yes. Your pooch can eat pomegranates. Are pomegranates a forbidden fruit for dogs? In this article, we’ll answer that exact question. Additionally, we’ll take a deep dive into the perks and drawbacks of feeding this fruit to Fido, the best ways dogs can safely consume pomegranates, and some tasty alternative treats.
Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates?
This fruit isn’t toxic to canines. In fact, your pet can actually benefit from eating pomegranates. However, moderation is key. If your dog eats a large amount, it may upset his stomach. So, small tidbits are always better instead of an entire bowl full of this fall fruit.
Many people think that the tannins in pomegranates are the culprits behind upset tummies. If you want to skip feeding Fido pomegranates all together, you can opt for dog treats that contain pomegranate but aren’t so rich in tannins to get all of the health benefits without the risks.
Are Pomegranates Healthy for Dogs?
Most of us are now aware of the insanely good health benefits that come with consuming pomegranates. Not only can they help manage diabetes, but eating pomegranates may help ward off certain kinds of cancers, may lower blood pressure, and can help fight joint and arthritis pain.
Of course, these health benefits are for humans. But do pomegranates lend a helping hand to healthy pups? In fact, many studies suggest that they do!
One study found that pomegranate extracts from the fruit’s peel could boost Fido’s digestive health by aiding in hindgut fermentation, which improves a canine’s ability to thoroughly digest other fruits and veggies. Don’t feed your dog raw peels, as they are tough to digest.
An additional promising study concluded that pomegranate extracts can be positive for Fido’s heart health.
Can I Feed My Dog Pomegranate Seeds?
While a number of folks think that the seeds are the healthiest part of a pomegranate, they can actually be tough on your pooch’s digestive system. Unlike other fruits that are super toxic to dogs, including rhubarb and grapes, pomegranate seeds aren’t actually poisonous. However, they are highly acidic and may cause Fido to have some tummy troubles, including vomiting and diarrhea. Because of this, it’s best to only feed him pomegranate extracts.
What Do I Do If My Dog Ate a Pomegranate?
If your dog gobbled up a raw pomegranate, you don’t have to worry too much. Even if he ate the entire fruit, peel, seeds, and all, you don’t have to immediately rush him over to the vet. It’s best to keep an attentive eye on him, provide plenty of water, and monitor his symptoms. If your dog does have an adverse reaction, such as vomiting, but nothing else, his upset stomach should sort itself out shortly. His digestive system is simply trying to expel the fruit.
Unless his reaction is severe and prolonged, your dog won’t need medical attention.
How to Feed Your Dog Pomegranates
Now that you know pomegranates are safe, and actually healthy, for dogs, it’s time to cook up something creative! Let’s take a look at a couple of homemade pomegranate dog treats that your pooch is sure to savor!
- Related Read: Can Dogs Drink Powerade? Is Powerade Safe for Dogs?
Pomegranate Dog Treat Recipe from PetGuide
This easy recipe will take you about 15 minutes to whip up. Made from wholesome ingredients including pomegranate juice, tapioca flour, eggs, and honey, these little doggy cookies will have your pooch going nuts.
Makes 25-30 cookies
- 1 cup tapioca flour
- 2 cups oat flour
- 3/4 cup pomegranate juice
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- Add oat flour, tapioca flour, and egg into a large bowl and mix well.
- Add coconut oil and honey and mix until both are combined with the flour.
- Slowly add pomegranate juice while stirring. Add more or less juice as needed.
- Knead dough in bowl until a firm dough is formed.
- Separate dough into 4 balls. Roll each ball out on parchment paper-lined countertop to ¼ to ½ inch thickness.
- Cut the dough balls with cookie cutter and place on sheet.
- Place in oven and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 4-5 hours to harden.
- Store in airtight container and keep in fridge or freezer until needed.
Bottom Line
You can definitely feed your dog pomegranates. In fact, he will get some sweet health benefits out of the deal. However, you should always feed your pet pomegranates in moderation, because the seeds and tannins can lead to an upset stomach. If your pooch gets into a whole pomegranate, don’t worry. Keep an eye on him, provide plenty of fluids, and take him to the vet if he’s severely ill.
Featured Image: stevepb, Pixabay
