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The quick answer: Yes, this sweet, tropical fruit is safe to share with your dog.
Native to China, the kiwifruit is a delicious, oval-shaped berry with brown, fuzzy skin and a sweet and juicy green center. The fruit has been known by many names but ended up with the name ‘kiwi’ after the national bird of New Zealand because of its small, fuzzy, brown appearance.
Benefits of kiwi
Kiwis are low in calories and high in vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. Remove the fibrous peel and offer your pet a nibble of the soft flesh to see if she likes the taste. Though it is safe to share with your dog, kiwifruit should only be given as a treat, meaning only small amounts here and there. It certainly shouldn’t replace any part of your dog’s staple diet.
Hazards of sharing kiwis with dogs
Though kiwifruit is not toxic to dogs, you should discard the peel and prevent your dog from eating it. Because it is tougher, it can be difficult to digest, and in some cases could pose a threat of choking or causing an internal blockage.
Only share kiwi and other fruits in moderation. Eating too much can cause tummy upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. The rule of thumb is that added fruits should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s diet.
Dog-friendly kiwi recipe
For a refreshing, cool treat on hot summer days, try this kiwi pupsicle recipe.
Kiwi and Yogurt Frozen Dog Treats
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chopped kiwifruit
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Silicone mold or ice cube tray
Directions:
- Puree kiwi chunks until smooth.
- Add 1 tablespoon of yogurt to each space in your mold or ice cube tray. Fill the rest of the way with kiwi puree.
- Freeze until solid, about 4 hours.
- Remove treats from mold and store in an air-tight container in the freezer.
