Can dogs have watermelon?

I don’t know about other people but I am big on watermelons. I love this sweet juicy fruit. Eaten as is, mixed with other fruits into a salad, turned into appetizing desserts… this fruit that originated from Africa will always deliver lip-smacking goodness. Watermelon is available any time of the year. However, one will notice that this fruit seems to announce the arrival of the summer months. It is probably due to the fruit’s efficient refreshing and thirst quenching ability. Watermelon has the zeal of approval of weight conscious people. The fruit is about 92% water. Because of its low calorie content, it can be consumed in large quantities without worrying about gaining weight. People enjoying the fruit are common sights during the hot summer days. As expected, the four legged friend will enjoy the fruit as well. Some dogs draw the line at eating fruits. However, family members usually share what they eat with the pet thus, dogs are known to develop a taste for fruits and for other people food.

Canines, like humans need a balanced diet. Commercial dog foods must have a balance concentration of minerals and vitamin supplements to provide the dog with the nutrients necessary for growth, body repair and energy. However, even high grade pet foods that are advertised to be made from human quality ingredients may not have the level of nutrients needed by the dog. The difference may have been lost during the processing. The kibble being fed to Fido may also be made from cereal fillers and low on the necessary nutrients. The dog would eat the commercial food. They don’t have much choice, do they? However, responsible owners have taken to feeding the pet home cooked meals or supplementing the kibble with vegetables and fruits. Maintaining the health of the pet is of prime importance. This is probably the reason why Fido is given vegetables and fruits. Fido is allowed to eat watermelons.

Watermelon is a great thirst quencher on a hot summer day. The fruit is noted to mainly contain water. Watermelon though has loads of health benefit as well. Watermelon has a high concentration of powerful antioxidant. Lycopene, the antioxidant found in the red pigment of the fruit neutralizes the activities of the free radicals in the dog’s body. As soon as watermelon is ingested, Lycopene will be readily absorbed by the tissues and will travel throughout the body to stop the free radicals from damaging the tissues. These free radicals can increase the inflammation of joint of arthritic dogs, can aggravate an existing heart condition and can damage and turn healthy cells into cancer cells. By including watermelon, other fruits and vegetables in the dog’s diet, the pet is provided with the necessary antioxidants and nutrients that commonly deficient in highly processed pet foods.

Watermelon is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The dog would get vitamin A, vitamin B6 and vitamin C from this cold and refreshing summer treat. The fruit is also a good source of fiber that maintains the proper functioning is the dog’s digestive system. Watermelon has the necessary nutrients that boost the dog’s immune system. Low in fat and in cholesterol, the fruit can be given to the pet regularly without worrying that the pet would gain weight.

We know that dogs, especially the long and thickly coated breeds are overwhelmed by the summer heat. Doggie bowls are commonly filled with water or ice cubes to refresh the pet. Why don’t you provide your four legged friend with a thick slice of watermelon? The low growling and the wagging tail mean “A treat for me? Thank you dear friend!”

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