How to serve bananas safely
Bananas are safe for dogs in moderation. Peel the banana, and never feed the peel, then cut the flesh into small, appropriately sized slices. Because bananas are high in sugar, they are an occasional treat rather than a daily food.
The peel is not toxic, but it is hard to digest and can cause a stomach upset or even a blockage, so it always goes in the bin. The flesh can be sliced, mashed into food, frozen, or stuffed into a Kong for a longer-lasting treat.
Are bananas good for dogs?
Yes, in small amounts. Bananas are high in potassium and also provide vitamin B6, vitamin C, fibre and magnesium, while being low in cholesterol and sodium. Vets sometimes suggest a little banana as a healthier alternative to fatty or salty treats. The natural sugar is the reason to keep it a treat rather than a staple.
How much banana can a dog eat
Portion by size and stay within the ten percent treat rule. As a guide from the AKC, dogs over about ninety pounds can safely have up to half a banana, while dogs under about twenty pounds should have only one or two quarter-inch slices. Because of the sugar, portion control matters most for diabetic or overweight dogs, so check with your vet if that describes yours.
When bananas can cause problems
Too much banana can cause a stomach upset and, because of the sugar and fibre, either constipation or diarrhoea. If your dog eats a peel, watch for signs of a blockage such as vomiting, straining, lethargy or loss of appetite, and call your vet if you see them. Dried banana chips concentrate the sugar, so use those very sparingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat bananas?
Yes, in moderation, peeled and cut into small pieces. The sugar makes them an occasional treat.
Can dogs eat banana peel?
No. The peel is not toxic but is hard to digest and can cause a stomach upset or blockage, so never feed it.
Are bananas good for dogs?
Yes. Potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C and fibre make them a decent occasional treat and a healthier swap for fatty snacks.
How much banana can a dog eat?
Large dogs can have up to about half a banana; small dogs just one or two quarter-inch slices, all within the ten percent rule.
Can dogs eat bananas every day?
Only small amounts, and not ideal daily because of the sugar, so an occasional treat is better.
Can diabetic or overweight dogs eat bananas?
It is best to limit or avoid them because of the sugar, so ask your vet.
Can puppies eat bananas?
A small slice occasionally is okay, but balanced puppy food comes first.
Can dogs eat dried banana chips?
Only very sparingly, since drying concentrates the sugar. Fresh banana in small amounts is the better choice.
Sources
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about something your dog has eaten, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline.
Can Dogs Eat Chocolate?
No, dogs cannot eat chocolate. It contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs clear from their bodies far more slowly than we do, so the chemicals build up and overstimulate the heart and nervous system. Darker, more bitter chocolate is much more dangerous than milk chocolate.
Can Dogs Eat Grapes or Raisins?
No, dogs must never eat grapes or raisins. They can cause sudden kidney failure, and the danger is unpredictable: some dogs are seriously harmed by a tiny amount while others are not, so there is no safe quantity. Treat any amount as an emergency.
Can Dogs Eat Macadamia Nuts?
No, dogs should not eat macadamia nuts. They cause a distinctive short-lived poisoning with weakness, a wobbly walk (especially in the back legs), vomiting, tremors and fever. It is rarely fatal and most dogs recover within a day or two, but it still warrants a vet call.
Can Dogs Eat…? Food Safety Guide
Search the full list of foods that are safe, risky, or toxic for dogs.