Can dogs eat dates?
Yes, your dog can eat dates very well. But only the flesh part, the pits part can be harmful to the dog as it can choke your dog or obstruct the intestine. Also, dogs can eat dates only in small to moderate quantities else it’ll cause health problems for your dog.
What is the nutritional content of dates?
Dates are very nutritious food and most of the calories are contributed by carbs. They’re rich in fiber which improves digestion, controls blood sugar levels and regular bowel movements by helping in the formation of stool. Among figs and dried plums, dates have the highest amount of antioxidants which reduces the risk of several diseases and protects cells from free radicals. Dates may also help to promote brain health by lowering inflammatory markers and reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s. They also make up a good alternative to white sugar due to the fructose content which provides the sweetness along with the above benefits.
What are the Dates?
Dates are a fruit grown in many tropical areas of the world. They are obtained from date palm trees and mostly sold in dried form. Medjool and Deglet Noor are the two most common varieties of dates that are sold. It has a sweet flavor and chewy texture.
What are the potentially harmful health effects of feeding dates to my dog?
The potential harmful health effects include digestive problems like upset stomach, diarrhea etc, vomiting, and nausea. Your dog can also suffer a spike in blood pressure which may result in behavioral changes like pacing, low tail, averting eyes, tail, tucking, hyperactivity etc. They may also feel extra-thirsty or have bloodshot eyes.
What are the benefits of feeding dates to my dog?
Dates, as said, are very nutritious and provide many health benefits to your dog. The fiber content of dates helps the dog’s digestive system, maintaining blood sugar levels and preventing problems like diarrhea, diabetes, excessive weight gain and constipation. The natural sugars in dates give a good energy boost to your dog. Iron and zinc present in dates help in bone development while potassium manages the blood pressure level of your dog.
What should I do if my dog ate an excessive amount of dates?
If your dog has consumed excessive amounts of dates, you should quickly contact your veterinarian for treatment or take your dog to the veterinarian. Dates can make your dog’s stomach upset so take it regularly to the bathroom. And if they’ve become hyperactive take it out with just to burn that extra energy.
How to feed dates to your dog?
Dates are very harmless for your dog. The only thing you should care about is the amount and removal of the pits/ seeds of the dates. The hard seed in the dates is itself non-toxic to the dog but it can cause physical harms like choking or blocking of the intestine of your dog. So it is recommended to remove the pit before feeding dates to your dog rather than giving a raw date as a whole. You may also consult with your veterinarian about the dosage as excessive dosage can cause various problems for your dog.
Dates are pretty safe for your dog, the sweet taste attracts the dog and they may enjoy it too. But you should also limit the amount as excessive quantities can cause diarrhea, blood sugar fluctuations, make them hyperactive, jittery, dehydrated, cause vomiting, redness of eyes etc. Keep the dates away from your dog’s reach so that it wouldn’t accidentally reach it and consume excess dates. You can give dates occasionally to your dog instead of making it a habit. No doubt dates are healthy and they can be a part of your dog’s diet.
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