Can Dogs Eat Watermelon? Beating the Indian Summer Heat Safely

In this guide

A Hydrating Summer Treat

As temperatures climb across most of India between March and June, watermelon becomes one of the most refreshing fruits around, and it happens to be a safe, hydrating treat for dogs too, being made up of more than 90 percent water.

Health Benefits

• Excellent source of hydration on hot days
• Contains vitamins A and C
• Low in calories, making it a reasonably guilt free treat

What to Remove First

• Seeds: the hard black seeds can cause digestive upset and, if eaten in quantity, an intestinal blockage, particularly in smaller dogs. The soft white seeds found in seedless watermelon are generally not a concern
• Rind: the tough green outer skin is difficult to digest and can cause choking or a blockage if swallowed in large pieces

How to Serve It

Cut the flesh into small, bite sized cubes with the rind and seeds removed. Many dogs enjoy frozen watermelon cubes on particularly hot afternoons, which double as a cooling treat. Seedless watermelon varieties are now widely available in Indian markets and make preparation considerably easier, since there is no need to pick out hard black seeds one by one.

How Much Is Safe

Keep watermelon within the general treat guideline of about 10 percent of daily calories. A handful of small cubes is enough for most dogs; too much can lead to loose stools given its high water and natural sugar content.

Dogs Who Should Be Extra Careful

Dogs with diabetes, kidney disease or a tendency to gain weight should only have watermelon with veterinary guidance, since it does contain natural sugar and potassium that may not suit these conditions.

Puppies and Watermelon

Puppies can have small amounts of seedless, rind free watermelon once they are weaned onto solid food, introduced slowly to check for any digestive upset.

Article content © S Vejay Anand. All rights reserved.