Dogs seem like they can practically eat anything under their noses, but does that mean they should? When it comes to canary melons, how safe is it to feed them to your dogs?
There are several things you should account for here, such as the benefits, risks and methods of feeding canary melons to your dogs. You can take a look below for some further clarity.
Can Dogs Eat Canary Melon?
Dogs can eat canary melons. These large yellow fruits that come closest to cantaloupes have a soft texture and a sweet taste, making them safe and delicious for your dogs to eat.
However, given the level of sweetness of canary melons, it is safer to limit the quantity that you feed to your dogs. You should also control how often you feed canary melons to your dogs.
Provided that you give them to your dogs with restraint, it is generally safe to feed these fruits to them. Of course, make sure you account for your dog’s tastes and allergies too.
If your dogs indicate displeasure and discomfort with eating canary melons, you should stop feeding these to them.
Are There Any Benefits of Canary Melon?
Feeding canary melons to your dogs can actually come with several benefits. Apart from the fact that they can serve as delicious and occasional treats for them, there are various other health advantages of these melons that your dog can absorb.
Here are some benefits that you can expect for your dog.
Fiber
Canary melons contain plenty of fiber which can be extremely helpful in maintaining the digestive health of dogs. It can help solve the issue of constipation or nausea by resulting in softer stools.
It can also clear their tract and detoxify it.
Vitamins
Canary melons contain vitamins A, C and beta-carotene in abundance. These vitamins can help strengthen dogs’ immunities while also preventing deficiencies.
These, especially vitamin C, also contain antioxidants that improve cellular health and keep harmful diseases and conditions away. They can also improve your dog’s skin and fur.
Also Read: Can Dogs Eat Pomelo?
Minerals
Canary melons are also rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium, phosphorous and calcium. These can strengthen your dog’s bones, teeth and muscles.
Potassium is also an essential electrolyte that can improve the overall physical and cognitive health of your dog. It can also prevent hypokalemia.
Low Calories
Typically, canary melons have lower calories as compared to several other foods. This can, therefore, be a healthy fruit and treat to feed to your dogs without the risk of excessive energy and other associated health issues.
Water Level
Canary melons contain plenty of water in them. This can help keep your dog hydrated and energetic while also aiding digestion.
Are There Any Risks of Feeding Canary Melon to Dogs?
Canary melons are not absolutely good for your dogs. Since dogs have a more sensitive digestive system as compared to humans, feeding things to them in moderation is key.
When it comes to canary melons, there are some risks that you should look out for to ensure that your dog does not suffer too much. They are as follows.
Choking
If your dog accidentally ends up eating the seeds and rinds of a canary melon, they can end up choking due to the obstruction these can cause. These are also toxic and can lead to poisoning.
Diarrhea
Too much fiber and water consumption can lead to diarrhea and vomiting in your dogs. This is unlikely to happen if you feed the melon to your dogs in a small quantity, but large quantities eaten accidentally can cause this problem.
Obesity
Canary melons have a relatively high sugar content. Frequently feeding these to your dogs can result in obesity, especially if you are also feeding other sweets and treats to them.
The high sugar content might also lead to diabetes, potentially creating issues for the heart.
Also Read: Can Dogs Eat Durian?
How to Safely Feed Canary Melon to Your Dog
Ensure that you maintain and carry out the following safe feeding practices while feeding a canary melon to your dog.
- Make sure the melon is ripe and fresh.
- Wash the canary melon before you prepare it for your dog.
- Peel off the skin or rind completely.
- Scoop out all the seeds of the canary melon.
- Chop up the melon into tiny bite-sized pieces.
- Wait for your dog’s reaction before feeding more of the melon to them.
- Provide only a few pieces up to twice a week or even less often.
- If your dog experiences excessive diarrhea or starts choking, visit the vet immediately.
Also Read: Can Dogs Eat Kiwi?
Final Thoughts
Dogs can eat canary melons but should only eat them occasionally and in small quantities. This way, they can get the benefits of these melons, such as their fiber and water content and nutrients, while also avoiding risks like diarrhea, obesity and diabetes.