Disclaimer: Always check with your vet on what “human foods” your dog can and cannot eat as information may vary based on their dietary needs and health conditions.
Bananas are a highly nutritious and delicious fruit for both us and our doggos! Fresh, frozen, or pureed, they make a delightful occasional snack.
Read on to learn more about whether bananas are good for dogs, how much should they be eating and more.
Table of Contents
Are bananas good for dogs?
Yes, bananas are good for dogs when given in moderation. Here are some benefits of having them as part of your doggo’s snack rotation:
- Fibre: Bananas contain fiber, which aids in digestion and can help regulate bowel movements. Fiber also helps prevent constipation and may support weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Vitamins: Bananas are packed with vitamins C and B6 which boosts the immune system, aids in brain function and healthy hormones.
- Potassium: Crucial for muscle and nerve function support.
- Low in Fat and cholesterol: Bananas are low in fat, making them a relatively healthy, low-calorie snack option when served in moderation.
Despite these benefits, it’s important to feed bananas to your dog in small amounts, remove the skin and watch for any signs of digestive upset or allergies.
Are bananas bad for dogs?
Bananas are generally not bad for dogs when given in moderation, but there are a few scenarios where they could pose risks:
Which is why at Petchef, we ensure that all the ingredients that go into our dog food recipes are made of fresh, clean ingredients only! All the meals tailored for dogs contain:
It’s completely free of preservatives, additives, fillers and grains! If you’d love for your dog to eat the food they were born to eat, come have a chat with our friendly pet nutritionist to find the ideal meal for your pet
So, while bananas are not inherently bad for dogs, it’s important to serve it safely and in moderation.
How much banana can a dog eat?
The amount of banana a dog can eat depends on their size, age, and health condition. Generally, it’s best to offer bananas as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet. Here are some general guidelines:
- Small dogs (under 9 kgs): 1–2 small slices (about 2–3 cm each, total 1-2 tablespoons)
- Medium-sized dogs (9 – 23 kgs): 2–4 slices (about 4 – 6 cm total, equivalent to about half a small banana)
- Large dogs (23+ kgs): 4 – 6 slices or a little more (equivalent to about half or one whole banana occasionally)
Keep in mind that bananas should only be given in moderation. Too much can cause an upset stomach or diarrhoea due to the high sugar content and fiber. A good rule of thumb is no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake should come from treats like bananas.
How to tell when a dog has had too much banana?
If your dog has had too much banana, they may show signs of digestive upset or discomfort. Some common symptoms to watch for include:
- Diarrhoea or loose stools: the high sugar and fiber content in banana can sometimes upset your dog’s stomach, leading to diarrhoea.
- Vomiting: if your dog eats too much banana, they might vomit as a way to get rid of the excess.
- Stomach discomfort: your dog might appear bloated, gassy, or have a hard time passing stools if they’ve eaten too much fruit.
- Lethargy: overeating fruits, especially if it’s rich in sugar, can lead to a temporary spike then a drop in energy levels, making your dog seem more tired than usual.
- Allergic reactions (rare): symptoms may include swelling, itching, or hives, though this is uncommon with bananas.
If you notice any of these symptoms after feeding your dog bananas, it’s a good idea to withhold food for a while to let their digestive system settle. Always ensure they have access to fresh water. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s best to consult your vet for advice.
How often can dogs eat banana?
Dogs can enjoy bananas as an occasional treat, but it’s important not to feed it to them too often due to its high sugar and fiber content. Treats like bananas should only make up a small portion of your dog’s daily intake—no more than 10% of their total daily calories.
As with any new food, monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset after giving them fruit. If they seem to tolerate it well, you can continue offering it occasionally, but always in small, manageable amounts.
How to feed your dog banana?
Feeding your dog banana is simple, but there are some key steps to ensure it’s done safely:
- Choose a ripe banana: opt for a yellow banana with no green parts (ripe and easy to digest).
- Peel the banana: always remove the peel as it is difficult for dogs to digest and could cause blockages.
- Cut into small pieces: slice the banana into small, bite-sized pieces to avoid choking, especially for smaller dogs.
- Serve as an occasional treat: banana should be given as a treat and not as a regular part of your dog’s diet. Keep it to a few pieces once or twice a week, especially since bananas are high in sugar and fiber.
- Observe for allergic reactions: as with any new food, it’s a good idea to start with a small amount of banana and watch for any signs of digestive issues, like vomiting or diarrhoea. If your dog shows any negative reactions, discontinue the banana and consult your vet.
By following these steps, you can safely treat your dog to some delicious banana!
Creative ways to serve banana to your dog
Bananas are a relatively versatile fruit that can be served in a few different ways for your doggo’s enrichment. As long as they’re not served piping hot, mixed with any oil, sugar and other harmful ingredients like chocolate, herbs and spices, here are some fun ways to experiment:
Freeze banana slices for a cool snack on hot days.
Dehydrate slices into crunchy, dog-safe treats (no added sugar or oil).
Mix a small amount into their regular food or with other small chunks of dog-safe fruits.
Stuff mashed banana into a Kong or similar toy for a fun activity.
