Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?

It is a hot summer day. Naturally, there is watermelon on your dining table sliced and ready for you...and then, there stands your furry pal looking at you hoping you would share the juicy fruit. This is 'Can dogs eat watermelon?' moment for you. Yes, dogs can eat watermelon. Here is what you may want to know before you feed watermelon to your dog.

Why is Watermelon Good For Dogs?

Source: Photo by Bruno Scramgnon: https://www.pexels.com/photo/watermelon-shake-filled-glass-cup-beside-sliced-watermelon-fruit-on-brown-surface-1337825/

Over 90% water content in the fruit makes watermelon one of the top hydrating fruits in the world. Watermelon is also a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. It also contains good amount of lycopene, which is a powerful antioxidant.

Health Benefits of Watermelon for Dogs

Here are some of the most important benefits of watermelon for dogs:

• High water content in watermelon helps to keep dogs hydrated and prevent dehydration.
• Being a good source of vitamin C, watermelon boosts immunity and skin health. 
• Vitamin A in watermelon supports vision health.
• Digestion is improved.
• Lycopene in watermelon boosts skin and coat health in dogs. According to a study, lycopene is also effective in preventing and treating cancer.

Serving Recommendations

Remove the rind and seeds; cut the flesh of the fruit into bite-sized pieces to prevent chocking hazards in dogs. According to petMD, extra-small dogs can have 1 to 2 pieces of watermelon, small dogs can be served 2 to 3 pieces and large dogs can be served a handful of watermelon pieces.