Can Dogs Eat Nectarines? How to Prepare Nectarines for Dogs

Dogs can eat nectarines in limited quantities. Nectarines are rich in vitamins and antioxidants and low in caloric content. However, as stone fruits, they contain a pit that can be harmful to dogs if swallowed. Nectarines are rich in dietary fiber but have a high sugar content, which can pose health issues for dogs if given too often as a treat.

Nectarines are a refreshing summer treat with health benefits for your pet. They are:

1. 1. Full of minerals: Nectarines contain minerals like magnesium and potassium. Magnesium promotes bone health and helps your dog’s body absorb vitamins and produce enzymes with greater efficiency, while potassium aids muscle and nerve functions.
2. 2. Good for digestive health: The fruit is a great way to add fiber to your dog’s diet. Nectarines’ high fiber content aids your dog’s digestive system by warding off constipation.
3. 3. Rich in vitamins and nutrients: Nectarines are rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants that help boost your pooch’s immune system. These summer fruits add an extra boost of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

There are a few factors to consider before feeding nectarines to your dog, including:

• Nectarine pits are choking hazards. The pit or stone poses several risks to your dog’s health. Nectarine pits are dangerous because they can cause your dog to choke or create a blockage in your dog’s digestive system. Pits also contain trace amounts of cyanide which causes illness and even death in small dogs. If you believe your dog is ill from eating a nectarine pit, peach pit, or a pit from other stone fruits like plums or apricots, watch for signs of cyanide poisoning, including drooling, vomiting, and dilated pupils.
• Rotten fruit is toxic for dogs. Always feed your dog fresh nectarines. Rotting fruit causes many health concerns, from stomach problems to mycotoxin poisoning, which is toxicity caused by mold that grows on fruits and other foods. Decaying fruit also produces ethanol, which is toxic for dogs and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of both toxicities include ataxia, or loss of muscle control, and repeated vomiting.
• They are high in sugar. Excessive sugar consumption can upset your dog’s stomach or lead to tooth decay. The added sugar is also harmful to dogs with obesity issues or diabetes. Avoid feeding your dog canned fruits because the syrup in the can contains excessive sugar.

To feed your dog nectarines, prepare the fruit following these steps:

1. 1. Wash your fresh fruit. Rinse your fruit to remove pesticides and preservatives before preparing the juicy fruit for your dog. Give your dog only ripe, fresh fruit and look for decay, which poses a health threat. Cut off any rotten pieces.
2. 2. Remove the pit and keep portions small. To prevent a choking hazard and issues for your dog’s digestive tract, remove the pit and cut the fruit into small pieces.
3. 3. Offer as a treat or mix the fruit into their dog food. Serve small portions of nectarine to your pet, or try a frozen purée of nectarines for a refreshing treat on a hot summer day. For added health benefits, mix the purée with pieces of other fruits and vegetables, like blueberries.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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