Can Dogs Eat Bananas?

Bananas are high in potassium, which is vital to the functioning of the kidneys and heart. They’re also a good source of fiber and magnesium, both essential for muscle and blood vessel function.

They can be served plain and peel-free for a healthy treat that won’t upset your dog’s stomach, but remember: bananas are high in sugar. This means they should be given in moderation and only as occasional treats.

Keep in mind that some banana breads contain raisins or xylitol, which are toxic to dogs. If your dog eats banana bread that contains a harmful ingredient, you need to call your vet immediately.

Do not feed your dog a whole banana; it is hard to digest and could result in a blockage (bowel obstruction) or an upset stomach. Be especially careful if your dog tries to eat the peel.

You can freeze whole bananas or slice them into bite-sized pieces for your dog’s dry food. You can also mix a mashed banana with peanut butter to make a healthy treat that’s low in calories and fat.

Give your dog a sliced banana in their Kong toy, or add a frozen slice to their meal for an extra crunch! You can even smush banana slices into your dog’s medication for them to take without you knowing.

Whether you use raw or mashed bananas, keep in mind that too many of any fruit will cause your dog to gain weight. So, only serve them as a treat once in a while and never give them an abundance of any human foods.