While most fruits are safe for dogs, there are a few you should avoid. For example, grapes and raisins can cause kidney damage, and citrus fruits can irritate the stomach. So, where does papaya fit into all this?

Some believe the fruit contains a digestive enzyme that can help settle an upset stomach, while others worry that the seeds may be harmful. 

But what’s the verdict? Can dogs eat papaya?

In this article, we’ll give a concise answer to that question and explore the benefits and side effects. You`ll read about:

Can I Give Papaya to My Dog?

Papaya is a sweet and delicious fruit popular in many parts of the world. We often add it to juices, smoothies, and desserts. But can dogs eat papaya? Yes, they can. 

This fruit is safe for most dogs to consume in moderation. It’s a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Papaya can help an upset stomach and promote a healthy digestive system. If you’re still not convinced, let’s look at the fruit’s nutritional chart. 

Nutritional Value of the Yummy Papaya

Besides being delicious, papaya has many nutritional benefits for humans and dogs. Plus, papaya is refreshing for dogs on hot summer days. Here are some of the fruit’s nutritional benefits:

  • Vitamins A, C, K, and E — These vitamins help strengthen dogs’ immune systems and make their coats shiny and thick.
  • Fiber — Papaya is rich in fiber, which is especially beneficial for dogs’ digestive systems and metabolism.
  • Minerals — The fruit contains calcium, folate, and potassium, all essential for a dog’s bone health and blood circulation.
  • Digestive enzymes — They help break down proteins. 

The list of the nutritional benefits goes on, and it only proves that papaya is safe for dogs.

Can Puppies Eat Papaya?

Puppies can be very curious about human food. If you’re wondering whether papaya is safe for them, you should consider a few things.

Papaya has an enzyme for breaking down proteins, which usually helps your dog. But if you don’t feed the fruit to your puppy in moderation, that can cause diarrhea and stomach ache. Also, the fruit’s seeds can be a choking hazard, so always remove them before giving your pet papaya. 

Remember all that and papaya can be a healthy and delicious treat for your pup.

Health Benefits of Papaya for Dogs

While most people consider papaya a potential threat, the fruit has several benefits that make it well suited for pets, especially dogs. Here are the good changes you’ll notice if you include papaya in your dog’s diet:

Strong Immune System

Being an excellent source of vitamin A and C, papaya will make your dog stronger and healthier. Its antioxidant properties will keep your pet away from chronic inflammation and bacteria. 

Gut Health

Papaya is an excellent source of fiber, which can help keep your dog’s digestive system in check. Also, the fruit’s enzymes break down protein and make it easier for your dog to digest food.

Healthy Bones

Papaya is a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are essential for healthy bones. Also, the fruit has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and joint swelling.

Regulating Dog’s Weight

Papaya may be beneficial for dogs struggling with their weight. The fruit breaks down fat cells, making them more accessible for the body to use as energy. Plus, papaya helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can be helpful for dogs prone to weight gain.

So, is papaya good for dogs? Definitely! You can add papaya to your dog’s kibble or give it as a treat. The options are endless, and the result is the same — a healthy and happy dog. Also, by combining papaya and mango for dogs, you’ll get a refreshing summer salad you and your dog can share.

Giving Papaya to Your Dog: What Can Go Wrong?

Besides a few minor side effects, papaya is ok for dogs. But remember that moderation is essential for any food. If you stick to the recommended portions and the healthy dog food chart, your doggo can enjoy a juicy piece of papaya here and then.

papaya open cut on leaf with wooden background

Is There Something I Should Be Worried About?

We cannot say that papaya is bad for dogs, but there are some potential side effects to be aware of:

  • Choking Hazard Alert — The Papaya seeds, leaves, and skin can cause choking in dogs. So, always peel the fruit and remove the seeds before giving them to your pet. Also, observe your dog carefully if this is the first time they try it. 
  • Allergy Triggers —  One of the side effects of papaya for dogs is allergic reactions. Although this rarely happens, you should watch for signs of hypersensitivity such as itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
  • Too Much Can Upset Your Dog’s Stomach — The most common side effect of papaya is an upset stomach. This is mainly because of the high fiber levels that can manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, or appetite loss. If that happens, you might need good probiotics for dogs to prevent constipation and stomach ache. 

Although papaya is among the vet-approved fruits dogs can eat, it’s best to speak to your veterinarian before serving it to your dog.

The Best Way to Give Papaya to Dogs

After you get the green light from your vet, the next step is finding out how to prepare papaya for your doggo to avoid unwanted consequences.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Papaya?

Feeding your dog raw and fresh papaya is the best choice. 

The fruit contains the papain enzyme, which can help break down tough meat fibers. It’s an excellent addition to a raw diet. But papain can also cause stomach upset if consumed in large amounts, so start with a small portion and see how your dog reacts.

Can Dogs Eat Papaya Seeds?

Dogs should never eat papaya seeds, or they can get an intestinal blockage. Also, the seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide, which is toxic and deadly to dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Dried or Dehydrated Papaya?

You should avoid giving dehydrated papaya to your dog. It has low nutritional value and high sugar content. That’s especially harmful to dogs with weight problems, diabetes, or pancreatitis. 

Can Dogs Have Papaya Enzymes? 

You can sneak papaya enzymes into your dog’s kibble whenever it has a digestive disorder or gassiness. Also, that can help destroy intestinal worms in dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Papaya Skin?

The papaya skin is difficult for dogs to digest. If your dog eats it, the skin could cause horrible stomach pains and pose a choking risk. Also, the skin could get stuck in the digestive tract, causing a blockage. So, always remove the papaya skin before giving the fruit to your dog.

Can Dogs Eat Whole Papaya?

You shouldn’t feed your dog whole papaya as that might lead to several health problems. Depending on the size of your dog and the papaya, your dog might end up eating or swallowing the fruit without even chewing it. 

So, the best way to feed papaya to your pet is to remove the seeds and skin and chop the fruit into small pieces. 

If your dog somehow refuses to eat papaya, you can always use supplements with all the necessary vitamins for a healthy dog. 

How Much Papaya Can Dogs Eat?

Your dog should only get half a gram of the fruit per pound of body weight. For example, if your dog weighs around 20 pounds, give it 10 grams of papaya at most.

This will prevent excessive consumption that may lead to choking or gastrointestinal problems.

But how often can dogs eat papaya? You should only serve it as an occasional treat once or twice a week. This is the general rule for all summer fruits, including:

  • Cantaloupe
  • Watermelon
  • Blueberry
  • Apple
  • Banana
  • Strawberry
  • Cranberry

Homemade Dog Recipe With Papaya

If you want to experiment with this exotic fruit, we suggest making Frozen Papaya Dog Treats. It’s an easy and refreshing recipe that will become your dog’s favorite snack. Plus, homemade dog treats are always better than canned papaya for dogs.

You’ll need:

  • 1 fresh papaya
  • Fat-free Greek yogurt
  • Water

Step-by-step instructions:

  1. Cut the papaya into pieces and scoop the seeds with a large spoon.
  2. Peel the rind.
  3. Place the small chunks into a blender.
  4. Gradually add water and blend until smooth.
  5. Fill a cupcake mold with the blended mix and freeze for three hours. If you want to be a little extra, try the Paw and Bone Silicone Molds on Amazon.
  6. Then, top the frozen treats with the yogurt and freeze for another three hours. Bon appetite! 

You can also make this recipe with other fruits like pear or orange. And if you don’t have time for homemade food for dogs, you can always rely on Amazon’s Soopa Papaya Chews for the ultimate dog treat. 

Wrap Up

So, can dogs eat papaya? Yes! Papaya is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber essential for your dog’s health. Also, the fruit is a powerful antioxidant and an effective probiotic. 

While there are a few side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, that can only occur if you give too much papaya to your dog.

In short, don’t hesitate to give a piece of papaya to your pooch. It’ll make your dog feel good and refreshed.

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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