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View 2 More +For humans, few fruits match the burst of musky sweetness that a longan fruit offers, but can dogs eat longan? Dogs can eat a small amount of longan, providing the shell and pit of the fruit are removed.
However, just because dogs can eat longan, doesn’t mean that they should. In this article, we’ll take a look at why this fruit is not the healthiest, or safest, option for your dog, provide you with some ideas for equally delicious but healthy alternatives, and include vet-approved facts for keeping your pet happy and healthy!
Is Longan Safe for Dogs?
Packed full of vitamin C and fiber, longans are viewed as a healthy superfood for humans, but the same isn’t true when it comes to dogs.
There are a few reasons why longans are not the safest or healthiest snack option for your dog.
Tough Shell and Pit
The tough shell and pit of the longan fruit pose a choking hazard for your dog. Even if they can swallow it without any problems, they can cause an intestinal blockage. Additionally, longan seeds contain saponin, a toxin that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
High Sugar / Low Nutrient Value
Longans will not contribute much to your dog’s diet when it comes to nutritional value.
Although this fruit is legendary when it comes to its vitamin C content, dogs don’t need to consume vitamin C-rich foods the way we do, because they can produce their own.
As well as low nutritional value, longans are naturally sweet, and a diet that’s high in sugar can lead to obesity. This is especially true for obesity-prone breeds such as Pugs, Beagles, and Golden Retrievers. If your dog struggles with diabetes, you should consider giving them low-sugar fruit instead.
What Should I Do If My Dog Eats a Longan?
If your dog has eaten a longan or two, provided they haven’t consumed the skin or pit, they’ll probably be fine. Keep a close eye on your dog and look out for symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy.
As your pup’s parent, you’re going to know what’s normal for them. If you suspect something isn’t right, give your vet a call.
If you suspect your dog may have ingested the entire longan fruit, shell and pit included, you should call your vet for advice immediately.
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Healthy Fruits Your Dog Can Eat
Remember that most fruits are high in sugar. For this reason, you should try to give it to your dog occasionally as a treat., and always in moderate amounts. Always remember to remove seeds, pips, and cores, and chop the fruit up into small, easy-to-chew pieces to avoid choking.
- Apples
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Mango
- Peach
- Strawberries
- Watermelon
- Blackberries
- Raspberries
- Cantaloupe
- Oranges
If you’re thinking of trying something new in your dog’s diet, it doesn’t hurt to consult your pet, especially if your furry friend has special dietary needs, is prone to allergies, has a sensitive digestive system, or they’re on medication.
Always introduce new foods to your dog’s diet slowly. Give them a small amount, then wait and see how they respond. If all goes well, you can increase the quantity a little bit next time you give it to them.
Conclusion
Although longan is not toxic for dogs, it isn’t the healthiest option available—it poses too many risks for it to be worth it. Instead, offer your pup a healthier, safer alternative, such as blueberries, or strawberries.
Fruits have a high sugar content and should only be given to your dog as a treat. Remember that treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s diet. Too much fruit can upset your dog’s stomach. Keep an eye out for symptoms of GI upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and depression.
Finally, don’t hesitate to call a vet if you’re ever in doubt about your dog’s well-being or health.
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Featured Image Credit: kungfu01, Shutterstock
