Can Dogs Eat Melon?
To share or not to share with my pooch? A question many a dog parent will likely consider whenever they’re eating a particularly delicious food and their pooch is lingering nearby. Especially if that food is considered healthy (at least, in the human world). Which is why we asked Rory the Vet to dive into one of the most searched questions relating to this – can dogs eat melon?
The quick answer: yes, dogs can eat melon. But only in moderation. Read on for a detailed breakdown, including nutritional benefits and how you can safely serve your woofer melon.
MEET RORY THE VET
We’ve partnered up with animal whisperer and renowned veterinarian, Dr Rory Cowlam, to share his wisdom when it comes to all things furry. And boy, does this man know his stuff.
Starting with his degree from the Royal Veterinary College, Rory has since co-starred in the CBBC’s series The Pet Factor, shared his knowledge on the likes of Blue Peter and written all about it in his book, Secret Life of a Vet.
Follow him on Instagram
MEET RORY THE VET
We’ve partnered up with animal whisperer and renowned veterinarian, Dr Rory Cowlam, to share his wisdom when it comes to all things furry. And boy, does this man know his stuff.
Starting with his degree from the Royal Veterinary College, Rory has since co-starred in the CBBC’s series The Pet Factor, shared his knowledge on the likes of Blue Peter and written all about it in his book, Secret Life of a Vet..
Follow him on Instagram
The nutritional benefits of melons
Melons are a good source of fibre, vitamins A and C, as well as B vitamins. And because they’re made up of around 90% water, they’re helpful for hydration, which is especially important on those sun-soaked, summer days.
How to prepare melon for your dog to eat
When offering melon to your dog, you must prep it first to make sure it is safe to eat. Melons can pose choking hazards or stomach problems if left with their rinds and seeds attached, so ensure that these are removed properly. Once this is done, cut the fleshy side of the melon into small, bite size chunks. Finally, as your dog eats the melon chunks, keep a close eye on them, just in case you have accidentally missed some rind or a seed.
Potential dangers of feeding melon to your dog
Besides being a potential choking hazard, there are other reasons why feeding your dog melon could be a risk. For instance, the high sugar content can lead to health issues, especially for dogs who are already overweight or have diabetes. As demonstrated by these studies, a high-fat, high-fructose diet can not only cause weight gain but also metabolic changes, including insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction.
There can also be dental risks when it comes to feeding your dog fruit. The sugar content can cause decay to your dog’s teeth. If you are regularly feeding fruits to your dog, then it is even more important that you brush their teeth on a regular basis. If this is a struggle, you can get dental wipes and rinses that can help the process.
If possible, check the sugar content of the melon you are intending to feed your dog—less than 5g/100g is considered low in sugar.
Please note that, although melon is not considered toxic to dogs, there are other fruits, such as grapes and cherries, that are toxic and must not in any instances be fed to your pet. You can read my guide on toxic dog foods here.
How to introduce melon to your dog’s diet
Once you have been given the ok from your vet and you have prepped the melon beforehand, you can go ahead and feed your dog a small amount. We only want to introduce a very small amount at first to ensure it doesn’t disagree with your dog’s digestion.
1. Feed it in moderation
Like all treats—moderation is key. As discussed, melons are high in sugar and should only be fed to your dog every now and again, in small amounts, as part of a balanced diet. You can find more guidance on your dog’s daily diet here.
2. Monitor your dog for changes
Once you have introduced melon to your dog, it’s imperative that you keep a close eye on any changes to their health or behaviour. Because even though melon isn’t considered toxic to dogs, it can still cause health issues. If you notice anything, be sure to consult your vet immediately.
Get advice about your dog’s diet from your vet
Always seek advice from your vet before you add anything into your pup’s diet! That includes any further concerns or queries that are not answered here. It’s also worth considering whether melon is a necessary addition full stop. I personally would say no. There are plenty of other delicious treats your dog could enjoy instead that don't carry the same risk attachments.
The information in this article is intended as a guide to help pets and pet parents on their journey together. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for professional advice from a vet, behaviourist, trainer or other professional. We encourage all pet parents to consult with their vet and/or behaviourist to ensure their pet’s specific needs are met.