If you want to add a new refreshing snack to your dog’s diet, cantaloupe is the best option. This juicy fruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, so it can be a real nutritional bomb for your doggo.

But can dogs eat cantaloupe? Let’s end the debate once and for all. Keep reading to find out why cantaloupe should be on your shopping list and more:

What Is a Cantaloupe?

Cantaloupes are juicy, orange summer fruits that belong to the same group as watermelons, muskmelon, and honeydew melons. They’re also in the plant family of cucumbers, gourds, squashes, and pumpkins.

In the US, the most popular melon is the semi-sweet cantaloupe, with the scientific name Cucumis melo reticulatus. The word “reticulated” describes the fruit’s rough and webbed skin.

We know that people can enjoy this fruit in large quantities, but can dogs eat cantaloupe? Let`s find out!

Is Cantaloupe Good For Dogs?

Generally, the answer is yes. But there are a few things you need to know first. Read on to learn more.

Nutritional Value

What are the benefits for dogs that eat melon? Here are some nutrients that the fruit provides for your dog:

  • Vitamins — A cantaloupe contains lots of vitamins A and C, making it a powerful antioxidant. Also, it has vitamin K, an essential vitamin for preventing blood clotting and coagulation.
  • Potassium — Potassium is one reason why dogs with kidney disease eat cantaloupe. It helps with muscle development and regulates fluid levels in the dog’s body. 
  • Niacin — helps in converting sugar and fats into energy.
  • Magnesium — promotes bone and joint health.
  • Dietary fiber — It’s essential for healthy metabolism and gut health in dogs.

So, can dogs eat melon like cantaloupe? Absolutely. Cantaloupe contains 90% water, so it’s a super refreshing snack that you and your dog can share.

Benefits of Dogs Eating Cantaloupe

We established that dogs can eat cantaloupe safely. Now, let’s check some benefits your dog will get if you include this fruit in its diet.

Cantaloupe Is Good for Your Dog’s Eyes

The beta-carotene in cantaloupe is good for a dog’s vision. While it’s typically associated with carrots, cantaloupe also contains significant amounts.

Dogs with fading vision may benefit most from cantaloupe, but puppies and younger dogs should consume cantaloupe, too, to prevent sight loss.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Cantaloupe has anti-inflammatory properties for dogs. It contributes to joint and muscle health. Also, it helps with diseases like hyp dysplasia and arthritis in dogs.

Keeps Your Dog Hydrated All Day

Cantaloupe is made of 90% water, so it’s an excellent way to refresh your dog after a long run or on a hot summer day.

Low in Calories

A piece of cantaloupe contains only 34 calories, making it a perfect healthy snack for overweight dogs. Plus, it’s so tasty. 

Side Effects 

Apart from the benefits, consuming cantaloupe can have a few side effects for dogs and people. So, is cantaloupe bad for dogs?

Upset Stomach 

Due to its high fiber levels, cantaloupe can irritate dogs’ intestinal systems, causing diarrhea. So we recommend feeding it to your dog in moderation. 

Besides cantaloupes, fruits like pear, strawberry, and even bananas have a high fiber and natural sugar content, which can cause stomach pain. So, be very careful when giving summer fruits to tour doggo.

High Sugar Levels

Although it’s low in calories, cantaloupe may not be the best food for diabetic dogs because it has high levels of sugar. Pet owners should take extra precautions as that can cause health problems in overweight dogs.

Choking Hazard

Cantaloupes are okay for dogs only if they’re without seeds and rind. The hard parts of this fruit can cause choking, especially in small dogs and puppies. Always try to supervise your dog when it eats cantaloupe.

Allergic Reactions

Cantaloupes could be a nice addition to safe food for dogs with allergies. But there are always exceptions. You should carefully observe your dog’s reaction to cantaloupe, especially if it’s the first time eating the fruit.

Healthy Portion — Healthy Dog

So, how often and how much can dogs eat cantaloupe?

Vets recommend that treats, including fruit, make up 10% of a dog’s daily calorie intake. 

Pet owners should give cantaloupe to their dogs only as an occasional treat and no more than 30 grams per serving.

What Parts of a Cantaloupe Are Safe for Dogs?

Not every part of a cantaloupe is safe for dogs. Find out the best parts of a cantaloupe for your dog below. 

Can Dogs Eat Cantaloupe Rind?

The tough outer part of a cantaloupe, called rind, isn’t safe for your doggo. It’s hard, non-digestible, and can cause choking or gastrointestinal distress. 

Also, keep your dog away from licking the cantaloupe rind because it can contain pesticides and other harmful bacteria.

cantaloupe cut in to half and two pieces

Can Dogs Eat Cantaloupe Seeds?

Although a few seeds may not cause immediate danger, feeding your dog with them for an extended period can result in severe vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Also, seeds have a high concentration of cyanide, a toxic substance harmful to animals’ digestive health.

Try to avoid cantaloupe seeds as much as you can because they’re toxic and a dangerous choking hazard to dogs. 

If you notice that your dog has eaten a seed and has difficulties swallowing, find ways to make your dog throw up or call your vet immediately.

The plain cantaloupe flesh is the safest part of the fruit. Dogs shouldn’t eat cantaloupe skin and seeds because they’re toxic and hard to digest.

The Safest Way to Include Cantaloupe in Your Dog’s Diet

There are many ways you can include cantaloupe in your dog’s diet. But what’s the healthiest option?

Can Dogs Eat Green Cantaloupe?

Generally, all types are usually fine as they’re similar in taste, texture, and nutritional value.

Green cantaloupes are more commonly known as honeydew melons, which are also safe for dogs to eat. If you aren’t sure what melon you have, be cautious when giving it to your pet, and always consult your vet beforehand. 

Remember to be extra careful with the seeds and rind because they can cause choking and constipation.

Can Dogs Have Frozen Cantaloupe?

Frozen cantaloupes are a genius way to add extra nutrition to your dog’s diet. Plus, it’s a refreshing summer snack that your dog will love.

For a better and more fun treat for your doggo, you can make shaped cantaloupe treats in the Elfkitwang Dog Paw and Bone Shaped Silicone Mold on Amazon. How cool is that?

Can Dogs Eat Canned Cantaloupe?

Although it seems like canned cantaloupe is the easiest and fastest way to give the fruit to your dog, it’s an absolute no.

Canned fruits contain a lot of sugary syrups. Raw canteloupe is already quite sweet, and a canned one will surely have an even higher percentage of sugar.

This type of manufactured fruit can be life-threatening for dogs, especially for those with diabetes.

Can Dogs Eat Dehydrated Cantaloupe?

Yes, and you can dehydrate it at home. You can add the healthy crunchy snack to your dog’s diet as a treat or sprinkle it on top of kibble or fruit salad. 

Making delicious dehydrated snacks for your dog will be easier with a special tool like COSORI Food Dehydrator on Amazon. Unlike store-bought dehydrated treats for dogs, you’ll ensure that the snacks are free of sugary substances. Plus, you can make some delicious treats for yourself.

How to Pick a Good Cantaloupe

There’s not much science behind picking a good cantaloupe. With little luck and a few tips in hand, you’ll always choose the right melons that are good for dogs.

You should know if a cantaloupe is good by its smell. A ripe cantaloupe should have a sweet, musky scent. Also, the stem shouldn’t be attached as ripe melon will naturally separate from it. Lastly, the fruit should feel firm but not rock hard and without bruises around the stem.

Other Fruits as Tasty as Cantaloupe

If your dog’s a picky eater, try experimenting with different fruits until your dog starts to like their taste and texture.

Watermelon

If you thought dogs eating watermelon was a bad idea, you were wrong. Since watermelons contain less sugar per pound, they’re a good choice for dogs that suffer from obesity or diabetes. 

So, can dogs eat melon and watermelon? The answer, without a doubt, is yes.

Dogs and Strawberries

Like cantaloupes, strawberries are high in water content. They offer a wide range of health benefits for your dog, like being a powerful antioxidant and providing a lot of fiber and essential fatty acids. 

Can I Give My Dog a Banana?

Bananas are full of potassium, vitamin C, B6, and magnesium, so they’re tasty and healthy treats for dogs.

You can find many vet-approved fruits and vegetables for dogs, but a few you should try to avoid include:

  • Avocado
  • Apple
  • Raisins
  • Blueberry
  • Grapes
  • Cherries

Snack Time: Homemade Dog Cantaloupe Ice Cream

If you want to be on the next level with dog snacks, try our cantaloupe ice cream recipe. It’s easy to make without getting a pile of dishes dirty. Also, it has just a few ingredients, and pet owners can enjoy it too.

But can all dogs eat cantaloupe ice cream? Yes, this recipe is for all breeds and sizes, even puppies. The ingredients you’ll need are:

  • 2 cups of frozen cantaloupe
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened yogurt

Necessary equipment:

  • Freezer
  • Blender or food processor 

Step-by-step Instructions:

  • Place the frozen cantaloupe in the blender.
  • Add the water and yogurt gradually.
  • Blend until you get a thick consistency.
  • Place the cream in a container and let it freeze for a couple of hours.

Pro tip: Spice things up by using paw-shaped molds. Your dogs will be excited every time you prepare the cantaloupe ice cream.

Wrap Up

Good things happen for dogs that eat cantaloupe. This juicy fruit helps their digestion, fights off diseases, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Also, cantaloupes are good for maintaining a healthy weight and keeping your dog hydrated.

You should still pay attention to a few things before giving cantaloupes to their dogs. For instance, the cantaloupe should be ripe, with no seeds or skin.

So, can dogs eat cantaloupe? Yes, but only as an occasional treat and a few pieces at a time.

Natali is an animal lover and book addict. She has taken care of many puppies throughout her life, and she cannot imagine a day without petting a dog. She’ll do anything in her power to help an animal in need. Her motto is ‘’Treat animals like you treat humans, with love and respect!’’

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