Can dogs eat bananas? Safe amounts and benefits
Guide summary
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Yes, dogs can eat bananas, as an occasional treat and in small amounts. Bananas are safe, but they're fairly high in sugar, so they shouldn't become a regular part of your dog's diet.
How much banana a dog can eat
Go by the 10% rule: treats shouldn't make up more than 10% of your dog's daily calories. A medium banana has about 90-105 calories. As a guide:
| Dog size | Occasional amount |
|---|---|
| Toy (under 10 lb) | 1-2 thin slices |
| Small (10-20 lb) | 2-3 slices |
| Medium (20-55 lb) | A third to half a banana |
| Large (over 55 lb) | Half a banana |
Give it once or twice a week, not every day, and count it as part of that day's treats. To find out how many calories your dog needs a day (and how many can come from treats), use our pet food calculator.
Benefits
- Potassium, important for muscles and the heart.
- Fiber, which can help digestion.
- Vitamin B6 and vitamin C.
- It's soft and easy to chew, handy for older dogs or dogs with dental problems.
- It's a low-fat treat, a better choice than many store-bought treats.
How to serve it
- Always peeled. The peel is hard to digest and can cause a blockage.
- Sliced or in small pieces, to avoid choking.
- Frozen in summer, as a cooling treat.
- Mashed inside a stuffable toy, to keep your dog busy.
Avoid processed banana products (banana chips, smoothies, desserts): they often contain added sugar, and some "sugar-free" products may contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Check the list of foods dogs can't eat.
When to skip it
Ask your vet before giving banana if your dog:
- Is diabetic or overweight, because of the sugar.
- Has kidney disease, because of the potassium.
- Is often constipated: too much banana can make it worse.
If your dog has never had banana, start with a small piece and watch for vomiting or diarrhea.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat bananas?
Yes, in very small amounts (a little piece) and only as an occasional treat. Puppies need a diet made for growth, so most of what they eat should be their puppy food.
Is banana good for a dog with diarrhea?
A little banana may help some dogs thanks to its fiber, but it isn't a treatment. If the diarrhea lasts more than a day or your dog won't eat, call your vet.
Can dogs eat banana peels?
No. The peel isn't toxic, but it's very hard to digest and can cause vomiting or an intestinal blockage.
Sources
This article is for general information and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian. If you are worried about your pet's health, call your vet clinic.
