Since many people enjoy sharing their food with their canine companions, it is important to understand what is safe and what is unsafe before giving food to your dog as a treat.
Fortunately, mangoes are generally safe as long as they are prepared properly and given in moderation. In fact, they may even offer some healthy nutritional benefits. That said, mangoes should only be given as an occasional treat, not as part of your dog's regular diet.
Benefits of mangoes for dogs
Mangoes are a sweet fruit native to South Asia. Their flesh is bright yellow-orange and can be eaten raw, juiced, or cooked in a variety of ways, making them popular all over the world.
In India and Pakistan, the mango is the national fruit, and in Bangladesh, it is the national tree. This is partly due to the versatility and popularity of this sweet fruit with its leathery skin. Popular dishes using mangoes include chutneys, various beverages, salsa, preserves, and salads. They are readily available in grocery stores and are mostly yellow when ripe.
Like many fruits, mangoes contain a variety of nutrients. A single mango contains only about 60 calories but is rich in beneficial vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in vitamin C, which helps support the body's immune system, promotes healthy growth, and aids in repair processes.
Mango pulp also contains various carotenoids, including beta-carotene, which can act as an antioxidant, and is also high in vitamin B9 (folic acid).
This fruit is also high in water and dietary fiber, so feeding it in moderation can help support a dog's healthy digestive system.
Potential health problems of mangoes for dogs
Humans occasionally experience mango allergies, but this is extremely rare in dogs. If you give your dog a piece of mango, there's usually no problem, but if the mango wasn't peeled or your dog swallowed the pit, you might need to be concerned.
Mangoes are called drupes or stone fruits because they have a large pit in the center. This pit contains a small amount of toxic cyanide, so it should certainly be avoided.
Excessive consumption of mangoes can cause vomiting and diarrhea, just like any food in excess. Therefore, this fruit should be introduced gradually and fed in moderation. Because they are naturally high in sugar, diabetic and overweight dogs should consume very small amounts. Most companion dogs are considered overweight these days, and if your pet is as well, it's best to look for alternative, low-calorie foods. If you are unsure whether your dog is overweight, consult your veterinarian or consider checking one of the following resources:
Can dogs eat mango peels?
Mango peels are very hard and may not break down in a dog's stomach, while the pit or stones can cause blockages or pose a choking hazard.
If your dog accidentally gets some mango peel or pit in its mouth, it will likely pass through its digestive tract without any problems, but you should monitor its behavior for any changes. If it becomes lethargic, loses its appetite, vomits, or has diarrhea, contact your veterinarian.
Suggested ways to feed your dog mangoes
If your dog really loves mangoes, you can dehydrate the fruit to provide a chewier, chopped, and longer-lasting (although higher-calorie) treat that can be used during training. When dried this way, it means they can fit in your pocket without getting messy or mushy. You can also freeze mango slices or mix them into smooth popsicles using an ice cube tray. This is a perfect choice for a refreshing, hydrating, and invigorating treat in hot weather.
Ripe mangoes can also be added as part of the ingredient combination for stuffed Kennel Club toys or other treat toys. They can be mashed and mixed with other pet-friendly fillings, such as peanut butter (make sure it's a xylitol-free variety), or added to the ingredients of dog-friendly biscuits.
You can safely share a small piece of this delicious and nutritious fruit with your dog as long as you peel the ripe mango and remove the pit.
For dogs, it's not just mangoes that can be a healthy and nutritious food. It's okay to occasionally feed your dog plenty of other fruits and vegetables in moderation, but avoid giving them large amounts of treats or frequently adding them to their dog food. A balanced dog diet should be well-prepared to contain all the essential vitamins and minerals your dog needs. Adding too much food can disrupt this important nutritional balance. In addition, there are some vegetables and fruits that should be avoided entirely. Onions, garlic, avocados, and grapes are just a few examples of fruits and vegetables that are toxic to dogs. If you are unsure, consult your veterinarian before introducing anything new to your dog.
