Avocados are a staple in many human diets, praised for their creamy texture, healthy fats, and numerous health benefits. From guacamole to avocado toast, this fruit is a favorite among health-conscious eaters. But can dogs eat avocados as well?
The truth is, avocados contain a substance called persin, which can be harmful to dogs. This means that dogs can eat avocados, but only in super small amounts. Certain parts of the fruit can be eaten without any complications, so you can still let your pup have a taste of this delicious fruit.
But while avocados can be healthy, dogs should generally not eat avocados. There are other dog foods that are safer and healthier.
With that, let’s talk about everything you need to know about avocados for dogs.
Potential Benefits of Avocados for Dogs
Avocados are widely known for their nutritional profile in human diets. When it comes to our dogs, there will be risks involved. However, there is a potential for some nutritional benefits, but only when given in tiny amounts.
Let’s break down what makes avocados a nutrient powerhouse and how they could fit into your dog’s diet.
Healthy Fats for Skin and Coat Health
One of the benefits of avocados is their high content of monounsaturated fats, also known as “good fats.” These fats contribute to a healthy, shiny coat and moisturized skin, reducing issues like itching, flakiness, and irritation.
Vitamins for Overall Health
The flesh of an avocado contains several key vitamins and minerals that are good for your dog’s overall health. When dogs eat avocados, they can get access to nutrients such as vitamins A, E, and B6, potassium, and magnesium.
Fiber for Digestion
Avocados have a good amount of dietary fiber. This can support healthy digestion and help regulate bowel movements. However, this is only beneficial with smaller amounts of fiber due to the nature of a dog’s digestive system.
Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The antioxidants in avocados help protect cells from oxidative stress and may promote brain and eye health. Some natural compounds in avocados also have anti-inflammatory properties, which could be beneficial for aging dogs or those with joint pain.
What Are the Risks of Avocados for Dogs?
Avocados are often a good choice for human health benefits. However, for dogs, the risks can make them a questionable choice. While some dogs may be able to eat small amounts of avocado flesh without immediate harm, it’s good to understand the risks before giving them to your dog.
Persin Concentration
One of the biggest concerns with avocados is a compound called persin. This naturally occurring fungicidal toxin is found in the leaves, skin, pit, and even in small amounts within the flesh of the avocado.
While dogs are generally more resistant to persin than other animals like birds, horses, and cattle, consuming too much of it can lead to acute vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort. Some cases have even reported more severe effects, causing devastating effects on the heart and lungs.
The concentration of persin is highest in the non-edible parts of the avocado. So, while the flesh is relatively low in persin, the skin and pit have a considerably higher amount.
High-Fat Content
Another major issue with avocados is their high-fat content. While healthy fats are an essential part of a dog’s diet in moderation, avocados contain a higher percentage of fat than most dog-friendly fruits and vegetables.
If given too much, they can experience issues such as obesity and pancreatitis, which can create more problems in the future.
Dogs who are overweight or prone to digestive issues should avoid high-fat foods like avocados altogether. Even in healthy dogs, fatty foods should be kept to a minimum to prevent long-term health problems and keep your dog at a healthy weight.
Choking Hazard
Perhaps the most immediate risk of avocados comes from the large, hard pit in the center of the fruit. If a dog gets hold of an entire avocado, the pit poses a serious choking hazard.
Because the pit has a smooth and round shape, it can be easy to swallow when dogs eat avocados. When this happens, the obstruction can lead to digestive and gastrointestinal issues.
Additives and Seasonings
Even if avocado flesh itself isn’t highly toxic, many foods containing avocado are dangerous for dogs. These include guacamole and avocado toast. These foods can be dangerous because of the use of toxic foods such as onions and garlic. Avocados with additives should not be given to your dog.
What Parts of the Avocado Can Dogs Eat?
Avocados contain a natural toxin called persin, which is found in varying amounts throughout different parts of the fruit. While some parts may be relatively safe in small amounts, others pose serious health risks.
Avocado Flesh
The soft, yellow-green flesh of an avocado contains the least amount of persin, making it the only part that is sometimes considered safe for dogs in very small amounts. It also contains beneficial nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins, and fiber.
However, the flesh is still high in fat and fiber, which can cause digestive upset if taken too much. Dogs with sensitive stomachs, pancreatitis, or obesity should avoid avocado flesh entirely.
Additionally, some dogs may be sensitive to the small amount of persin present. Just make sure to monitor your dog for 24 hours after eating the avocado. Here are the symptoms to watch out for if your dog eats too much of the avocado’s flesh:
Mild vomiting
Gas or bloating
Loss of appetite
What Parts of the Avocado Should Dogs Not Eat?
Now, the flesh is the only part of the fruit that dogs can safely eat in small amounts. Here are the other parts you should definitely avoid giving:
Avocado Skin
The dark green, leathery skin of the avocado contains higher concentrations of persin than the flesh. When dogs eat avocado skin, they are more likely to experience digestive problems and mild to moderate poisoning symptoms.
Additionally, the skin is hard to digest, which can lead to gastrointestinal blockages and other digestive issues. If your dog has eaten the avocado’s skin, monitor them for these potential symptoms:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Excessive drooling
Lethargy or weakness
Avocado Pit
The avocado pit is the most dangerous part of the fruit. Not only does it contain persin, but it also poses a major choking and obstruction hazard if swallowed. The pit is large, smooth, and slippery, making it easy for dogs to accidentally ingest.
This can be easily lodged in any area of your dog’s digestive system, causing gastrointestinal problems. Here are the possible concerns to take note of:
Choking or gagging
Excessive drooling
Pawing at the mouth
Difficulty breathing
Vomiting or retching
Swollen or bloated abdomen
Lethargy or signs of distress
Avocado Leaves and Stem
The leaves, stems, and bark of an avocado tree contain the highest levels of persin, making them extremely toxic to dogs. While most pet owners don’t have access to avocado trees, dogs living near avocado farms or homes with avocado plants are at risk.
If you live near an avocado tree, make sure to prevent your dog from chewing its leaves. Here are the symptoms you might come across if they do:
Severe vomiting and diarrhea
Difficulty breathing
Lethargy and weakness
Healthy Alternatives to Avocado for Dogs
Since avocados come with risks, it’s much safer to choose nutritious options that don’t interfere with their overall health. Take your pick from our recommendations:
Blueberries. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants that can support a dog’s immune system. They are also low in calories and are good treats for training.
Apples. Apples provide vitamins A and C along with natural fiber that supports digestion. Just remember to remove the seeds.
Carrots. Carrots are crunchy and low in calories. They can also be cooked to create a soft and satisfying treat or meal topper.
Pumpkins. Pumpkins are gentle on the stomach and provide a good amount of fiber. However, they should always be cooked without any additives.
“What you feed your dog today shapes their energy, longevity, and happiness for years to come.”
- Dr. Paulina Czerska
Final Thoughts
So, can dogs eat avocados? While the answer isn’t entirely black and white, the safest approach is to avoid feeding avocados to dogs altogether. While dogs can eat avocados, this doesn’t mean that they should.
Although the flesh of the avocado contains some beneficial nutrients, the risks outweigh the potential benefits. It’s better to focus on other foods to support your dog’s diet. Options that are both healthy and safe are just generally better for your dog’s health and happiness.
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