The date is one of the oldest known fruits and has been cultivated by people for thousands of years. In fact, the Ancient Egyptians believed the pomegranate was the testicle of Osiris. While the pomegranate is still popular today and can be found in your local grocery store, the majority of people are familiar with the modernized version – the fruit. However, do you know what else is also a fruit? Dates. And what type of fruit is that? You guessed it, a date! So, can dogs eat dates? The answer is yes, if the dates are fully ripened. But, be sure not to give them too many because it can cause digestive problems.
If you’re looking for a healthy treat for your dog, read on to learn more about the pros and cons of feeding your dog dates, along with suggestions on how to introduce them into your dog’s diet.
What Are the Types of Dates?
There are many different types of dates. The two most common types of dates in the United States are the brown date and the black date. The brown date is the more popular of the two and can be found in grocery stores throughout the country. It is also known as the common date. The black date is less common and is often sold as an ornamental plant. Dates can be eaten both fresh and dried. The most common way to eat a date is fresh. You can eat these as a whole, or you can slice them open and remove the flesh (known as “date picking”). You can also dry dates, which can be popped into a jar of peanut butter or other spread, or added to a bowl of oatmeal or other cereal.
Pros of Feeding Your Dog Dates
- Dates are a rich source of fiber
- These are rich in potassium, vitamins B6 and B9, and essential minerals iron, manganese, and zinc
- Dates are rich in copper, a mineral that helps with brain function and proper immune function
- These are rich in pectin, which is a type of fiber that can help regulate bowel movements and strengthen your dog’s immune system
- Dates are easy for your dog to digest
- These are free of dairy, corn, wheat, and soy, which makes them a safe treat for all dogs
- Dates contain no sugar or starch, so they won’t spike your dog’s blood sugar like sugar does
- These are a healthy, natural treat for dogs
Cons of Feeding Your Dog Dates
Dates are a popular and nutritious fruit, but they also happen to be one of the foods that can trigger your dog’s sensitive tummy. The reason dates make dogs sick is because of the way they’re processed by the dog’s digestive system.
Dates can be very sweet, so most dogs shouldn’t eat too many. Excessive consumption can lead to a condition called “bloat” in which your dog’s stomach will become swollen, putting pressure on their internal organs.
While dates are a healthy treat, they are also full of toxins. If you aren’t careful, your dog could overdose on them. And, Date poisoning in dogs can be deadly. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends that “Dogs should not be fed fruits, vegetables, or other plants that are known to be toxic to dogs.”
If you are giving your dog dried dates, they shouldn’t be the only dog treat you give them. Dates shouldn’t be the only type of treat you give your dog because they are low in protein and vitamins and high in carbohydrates.
How to Introduce Dates Into Your Dog’s Diet
If you’re interested in adding dates to your dog’s diet, you can give Dates to them one at a time. Start by offering them as a treat and slowly work your way up to giving them two or three per day. If your dog doesn’t like dates, you can use them as a training treat. Simply cut them open and stuff the flesh inside a balloon or similar treat-dispensing toy.
Summary
Dates are a healthy treat for dogs, but they must be eaten in moderation. Excessive consumption can lead to bloat, which is an uncomfortable and potentially deadly condition for dogs. They should be fed as a treat and not given as a regular part of a dog’s diet.
If you’re looking for a healthy snack for your dog, consider giving them a few dates. Dates are rich in fiber, potassium, and other essential vitamins and minerals. They have no sugar, dairy, or preservatives, making them a healthy treat option.