Yes, dogs can eat mangoes in moderation. Mangoes are full of vitamins and safe for your pup to consume, as long as the fruit is peeled and the pit is removed before feeding your dog. Given mangoes high sugar and fiber content, this fruit should only be offered occasionally as a treat and should not be part of your dog’s regular diet.
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What is a Mango?
Mangoes belong to the pistachio and cashew family and are known as “The King of Fruit.” They contain numerous vitamins and minerals, earning them the distinction of a “super fruit”. Tropical mangoes are sweet and creamy and are found in abundance during the summer months. This luscious fruit is used in desserts, fruit bowls, and even salads!
Are Mangoes Safe for Dogs?
Yes, dogs can eat mango in moderate quantities safely. Parts of a mango that must be kept away from and are unsafe for your dog are :
Mango pit: The pits of this fruit are a choking hazard and contain cyanide, which is toxic to dogs.
Mango peel: The peel of mango consists of the substance Urushiol, which can cause skin irritation and lesions in dogs. The thick, fibrous peel can additionally cause intestinal blockage.
Both these parts of mango can prove to be quite fatal to dogs. So, ensure to dispose of these two parts and cut the mango into bite-sized treats for your pup.
In addition, fruits like mangoes contain large amounts fiber. Therefore these fruits should be consumed in recommended quantities only. Otherwise, your dog could face digestive issues or diarrhea. If they eat sweet fruits like mangoes too often, it may contribute to dental decay.
Why is Mango Good for Dogs?
Mango is a healthy addition to your dog’s menu of treats. The following are nutrients contained in magoes:
Potassium: This mineral helps in the proper functioning of your dog’s kidneys. It is also responsible for efficient heart function and a healthy digestive system.
Magnesium: This micro-nutrient supports the metabolism of proteins as well as fatty acids. It also aids in energy production and bone and ligament maintenance in your dogs.
Dietary Fiber: Fiber helps your dog maintain a healthy gut and aids in digestion. It balances blood sugar levels and adds an extended feeling of fullness for dogs that are overweight.
Vitamin B6: Supports red blood cells generation, immune response, nervous system function, and hormone regulation.
Vitamin A: This fat-soluble vitamin supports your little pup’s immune system, bone development and reproductive system. It also promotes good eyesight and prevents night blindness and cataract in dogs.
Folate (Vitamin B9 or folic acid): This supports DNA synthesis and red blood cell production.
Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant targets and destroys free-radical molecules that can damage new cells. It also helps the immune system by reducing inflammation, fighting against certain cancers.
Vitamin E: This vitamin is beneficial for your pup’s healthy skin and coat and aids them from skin irritation and ear infections.
Antioxidants: This fruit is known for high levels of antioxidants that help boost your pups’ immune system and defend them against any degenerative disease.
Adding to all these benefits is the fact that dogs tend to love mangoes! It is because this delectable fruit is on the sweeter end of the taste spectrum, making them an easy treat now and then!
Why is Mango Bad for Dogs?
Mangoes are safe for your dog if served correctly and given in small quantities. Here are some reasons why:
High sugar content: Mangoes have high sugar content. If given in high quantities to your dog, you could risk dental decay, obesity, and high blood sugar level in your dog.
Mango peel/skin: Fruit mango is in the same botanical family as the poisonous ivy plant. This is why both the tree and skin of the mango contain Urushiol just like the poisonous ivy, a component that might produce a rash if it comes in contact with your pup’s skin. Hence, it is not wise to give your dog the peel of the mango.
Mango skin is also thick and fibrous and can be difficult to digest, leading to an upset stomach, vomiting, or blockage in the intestines.
Mango pit: Mango is categorized as a stone fruit (Drupe fruit). The mango pit or stone contains amygdalin. This substance turns into cyanide when ingested and could be fatal to your dog if consumed in large quantities.
Excess fiber content: Mango fruit has enough fiber to help your dog’s immune system and digestive tract. However, the excess fiber content in a dog’s diet results in complications like constipation, diarrhea, gas, or a bloated stomach. For this reason, offer only a recommended amount of mango as a treat.
As you can see, even with the numerous health benefits of this tropical fruit, there are some important precautions to consider before giving this fruit to your adorable little pup.
How much Mango to Feed Your Dog?
A quarter cup of fresh mango once a week (or twice a week for large dogs) is an appropriate serving as a treat for your dog. Mangoes contain high amounts of sugar, so they should be given in moderation.
Serving the mentioned amount of mango to your dog will help them reap all the benefits of mango while keeping diabetes and obesity at bay.
How to Serve Mango for Dogs?
Here are a few tips to prep this tropical fruit as a treat for your dog:
Wash the mango thoroughly and ensure to never serve rotten mangoes to your dog.
Peel the mango and remove the central, large pit
Slice the fruit into bite-sized pieces for their easy consumption!
Serving Ideas for Mango:
Share a few frozen mango slices with your dog or a teething puppy.
Stir some mango puree into yogurt or cottage cheese as a snack.
Share little cubes of fresh mango as training treats.
Share homemade chewy dried mango with your pet dog when you go out hiking with them. Limit these to a few pieces only, though.
Fruitables are a popular low-calorie treat for dogs that contain mango in it. If your dog is crazy about its taste, these treats are a safe, healthy choice.
Make some mango sorbet or ice cream by mixing up some fresh yogurt with pureed mango and serve these cool slurpy treats to your dog on a hot summer day.
Pro-Tip: The best way to get fresh organic mangoes is from your friendly neighbor, who may have a few fruits hanging on their mango tree. Your local organic fruit shop is also a good option. Sourcing sustainable and fresh mango is our goal here!
What if my Dog Ate Too Much Mango?
If your dog consumed excessive amounts of mango, you would notice that they now have loose bowel movements or even diarrhea. At this stage, you don’t need to worry as the problem will pass on its own. Just monitor your dog and make sure they drink enough water to keep themselves hydrated.
If diarrhea becomes severe and your pup shows signs of dehydration, or any other concerning symptoms, get in touch with your vet right away.
On the other hand, if your dog accidentally consumes the mango peel, then check if they exhibit signs of any allergic reactions due to the urushiol present in the peels.
Symptoms of Urushiol Contact from Mango Peels
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or face
Hives
Excessive drooling
Symptoms of Obstruction Due to Mango pit
If you suspect that your dog accidentally consumed a mango pit, check for clinical signs of blockage such as:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Decreased appetite
Lethargy
Difficulty in breathing
Constipation
Stomach bloat
In both cases, seek the consultation of a vet immediately as these symptoms can be fatal if left untreated. They may recommend diagnostic tests like dog x-rays and a physical examination.
Can Dogs eat Dried Mango?
Dried or dehydrated mangoes are very high in sugar. In addition, the drying process can deprive the fruit of some of its nutrients. A small amount of homemade dehydrated mango won’t harm your dog, yet you should stick to the fresh variety. Too much dried mango could cause digestive issues as well as tooth decay in your dog.
Conclusion
Your pup can enjoy eating mangoes as an occasional treat as long as the skin and pit of the fruit are removed. Mangoes are chock full of antioxidants, so go ahead and cut up some mango slices for yourself and your best buddy!
