Yes, Frenchies can eat pomegranate safely, provided they are fed in moderation. These fruits are neither toxic nor poisonous and can even offer several health benefits for dogs.
All parts of pomegranate fruit, including the skin, seeds, and flesh, contain polyphenols which are great for preventing cancer and other terminal diseases.
Pomegranates are touted for their powerful antioxidant properties that help fight oxidative damage to the body cells resulting from free radicals. These antioxidants also aid in warding off diseases like cancer and slowing down the aging process in dogs.
The jewel-colored fruits are packed with vitamins C and K, folate, potassium, and fiber.
These nutrients play critical roles in supporting the general health of dogs. Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can boost the immune health of dogs and help them fight diseases.
Vitamin K is essential in promoting strong bone formation and supporting healthy blood clotting. The folate present in this fruit supports healthy blood production and boosts immune system functioning.
However, there are precautions you should observe while feeding pomegranates to your dog. First, while pomegranate seeds are not toxic and can be safely consumed in small amounts, they can be a choking risk to dogs if they swallow too many at a go.
Additionally, dogs may get a digestive upset or digestive tract obstruction from ingesting large amounts of pomegranate seeds.
Pomegranate peels or skins are hard to digest and thus pose a choking hazard or, worse still, result in intestinal blockage if swallowed. These can also cause severe gastric distress in large amounts.
Candied Pomegranate
Candies and candy products, including candied pomegranates, are a complete no-no for dogs. These foods are made with lots of sugar and often include artificial sweeteners.
Dogs’ digestive systems are not designed to handle such amounts of sugar. Feeding these sugary foods to dogs can cause a host of health problems.
Can Frenchies eat candied pomegranates?
Absolutely not. Dogs should never eat candied pomegranates or any other foods containing added sugars. The high sugar content can lead to digestive upset, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other serious health complications.
Candied pomegranates may also contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs.
Dried Pomegranate
Dried fruits are typically dehydrated fruits, making them more nutrient-dense compared to fresh fruits. However, dried pomegranates have a high sugar concentration, which dogs don’t need.
Can Frenchies eat dried pomegranate?
No, Frenchies can’t eat dried pomegranate safely. While not toxic, they are extremely sugary and can harm dogs if consumed in large amounts. Too much sugar can lead to health problems, including unhealthy weight gain, diabetes, tooth decay, joint issues, and heart problems.
One or two dried pomegranates given infrequently as a rare treat are unlikely to harm your Frenchie, but it’s best to avoid them.
Raw Pomegranate
Raw or fresh pomegranates are packed with nutrients like vitamin C and K, folate, fiber, and antioxidants. When fed in moderation, raw pomegranate can offer health benefits to dogs. The fiber can aid digestion and relieve constipation and mild diarrhea.
Can Frenchies eat raw pomegranate?
Yes, Frenchies can eat raw pomegranate safely in very small amounts. However, the tough skin can cause severe gastric irritation.
Feeding raw pomegranate may help boost immunity, fight infections, and improve brain and skin health due to its antioxidants and vitamin C.
Pomegranate Jelly
Pomegranate jelly is made by puréeing cooked pomegranates with added sugar. Fruit jellies are generally very high in sugar, which isn’t healthy for dogs. Even the sugar-free versions can include artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs.
Can Frenchies eat pomegranate jelly?
No, dogs should not consume pomegranate jelly. The high sugar content can lead to diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and other related health issues. Sugar-free pomegranate jelly may contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.
Besides the high sugar content, pomegranate jelly is low in nutritional value and hence not beneficial to dogs.
Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate juice is made by extracting fluids from fresh pomegranates. This usually involves blending the whole fruit, resulting in a high sugar concentration.
Can Frenchies drink pomegranate juice?
Yes, Frenchies can drink small amounts of pomegranate juice safely. However, due to its high sugar concentration, it should be given sparingly to avoid weight gain, diabetes, and heart issues.
Always consult a vet before offering juice to dogs with preexisting conditions like diabetes or obesity.
What Else Can Dogs Eat Together with Pomegranate?
The following foods can go well with pomegranates:
Kiwis
Kiwis are good for dogs, containing crucial vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that promote health.
They are low in calories but packed with fiber, making them ideal for weight management. High in water, kiwis are excellent hydrating treats, especially on hot days.
Loaded with antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin C, they help fight oxidative damage and infections like cancer. They also contain lutein for eye health and minerals like potassium and calcium for strong bones and improved neurological functions.
However, too many kiwis can cause gastric distress, so feed them occasionally in modest amounts.
Papaya
Papaya is a great addition to a dog’s diet when fed properly. It is high in fiber, digestive enzymes, and antioxidant-rich vitamins, supporting overall health.
The high moisture and fiber content help with indigestion, gassiness, and bloating. Papaya contains vitamins A, C, E, and K, plus minerals like calcium, potassium, folate, and magnesium.
Antioxidants like lutein and lycopene fight free radicals. Feeding papayas can help maintain a healthy immune system, reduce inflammation, enhance skin and coat health, and build healthy bones. Give in small amounts to avoid upsetting the tummy.
Bananas
Bananas are a healthy snack for dogs when given in moderation. They contain nutrients like potassium, magnesium, biotin, fiber, vitamins B6 and C, and antioxidants.
These support overall well-being and aid digestion. The high dietary fiber content helps relieve constipation and mild diarrhea. Vitamin B6 supports body and brain functions, fluid balance, and hormone regulation.
Vitamin C boosts immunity and fights illnesses. However, bananas are loaded with sugar, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and heart problems if fed in high amounts.
Oranges
Dogs can safely eat orange flesh in moderation. Oranges are rich in nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and flavonoids, promoting immune health, fighting oxidative stress, combating diseases like cancer, maintaining fluid balance, and aiding digestion.
However, seeds, peels, and piths contain toxic substances that can cause gastrointestinal upset. Oranges are high in natural sugar, which can lead to obesity, tooth decay, and diabetes if consumed in large amounts.
Health Benefits of Feeding Pomegranate to Your Dog?
Pomegranates contain nutrients that offer several health benefits to dogs, including:
- Contains vitamin K: Dogs need vitamin K to help them build strong bones and enhance bone density. This mineral is also essential in regulating the body’s ability to clot and minimizing the risk of excessive hemorrhaging in case of injuries.
- Packed with vitamin C: Pomegranates are loaded with vitamin C which acts as a powerful antioxidant and helps in combating free radicals that cause oxidative damage to the body cells of dogs. This vitamin is also crucial in supporting the immune system of dogs and helping them fight diseases and infections. Vitamin C is also helpful in improving the health and condition of a dog’s skin.
- Rich in folate: This is an important B vitamin that helps in supporting healthy blood production, promoting immune system functioning, and regulating tissue growth.
- Better oral health: Feeding pomegranate or including pomegranate extract can help in the treatment of halitosis or bad breath in dogs.
- Fiber: Pomegranates contain a good amount of dietary fiber that aids digestion, regulates bowel movement, and aids in the control of blood sugar levels. Fiber also helps to keep dogs feeling full for longer, hence helping in weight management.
Risks of Feeding Pomegranates to Your Dog?
While pomegranates are healthy and safe for dogs to consume, there are also some advantages of feeding these fruits to your dog. These include:
- Too much sugar: Like other fruits, pomegranates are loaded with sugar. Too much sugar, even when natural, can lead to obesity, diabetes, dental problems, and heart issues in dogs.
- Digestive upset: Feeding large amounts of pomegranates to your dog can cause it a tummy ache. The peels and the seeds also contain a toxic substance called tannin, which can cause digestive upset if consumed in large amounts.
- Choking and obstruction risk: Pomegranate skin is tough for dogs to digest and can hence cause a serious intestinal blockage if swallowed. If a dog swallows a large number of pomegranate seeds at once, it risks getting choked as well.
Best Dog Foods with Pomegranate
Pomegranates are nutritious for dogs in moderation, aiding digestion and boosting immunity. Some dog foods with pomegranates include:
- Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Chicken & Pomegranate Recipe Adult Mini Dry Dog Food
- Wellness CORE Digestive Health Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
- Holistic Select Adult Health Lamb Meal Recipe Dry Dog Food
Bottom Line
Feed pomegranates as occasional treats, not as part of the regular diet. Excessive amounts can cause gastrointestinal distress and health issues like obesity, diabetes, and dental problems. Fruits should not exceed 10% of a dog’s daily calories.
