Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash

You've heard of all the amazing benefits that bananas can give you after a hard workout, so you have no qualms snacking on one. Then you see it. Those adorable puppy dog eyes wide with curiosity (see Image 1). They're practically begging you for some of that banana. So, can dogs eat bananas? Naturally, you hesitate. "Are bananas safe for dogs?...They have to be, why wouldn't they be...but just to be sure, I better Google it." We're glad you landed here! We'll be explaining the benefits of bananas for dogs and answering some Frequently Asked Questions about dogs and bananas.

Important Note: All data, information, and advice reflect the views of the authors alone and in no way reflect those of Pawstruck.com. Everything is provided on an as-is basis and every situation is different. Always consult a veterinarian with health-related questions.

Is it Safe to Feed My Dog Bananas?

Yes! Bananas have many great benefits for dogs. That said, because of the high sugar content in bananas they should be used as a treat, not a staple of their diet.

Why Are Bananas Good For Dogs?

1) Potassium: Aids Muscle And Blood Vessel Function

We couldn't mention the benefits of bananas for dogs without mentioning potassium! Knowing that bananas are high in potassium is one of those fun facts that everyone always seems to know. While that's a great fun fact, what does that mean? Why is having a high potassium content important? What is potassium? Potassium is great for muscle and blood vessel function. It helps muscles move (like helping the heart squeeze blood through your body) and helping nerves fire. It's also important for maintaining a proper balance of fluids throughout the body. Note: It is possible to have too much potassium, which can lead to health problems. Bananas should only be fed in moderation and not as a meal replacement.

2) Vitamin C: Antioxidant And Immune System Boost

Vitamin C helps combat cataracts, glaucoma, kennel cough, joint inflammation and arthritis and certain infections. It can even help in the recovery of injuries and can help fortifying your dog's immune system Most dogs don't need a supplement of Vitamin C because they produce it on their own. However, there are some canine health conditions that require adding Vitamin C to their diet.

3) Fiber: Helps Constipation And Promotes Regularity

Fiber is one of those strange things that seem helpful for almost any digestive trouble. If your pup has diarrhea now and again, fiber can help with that. If doggy constipation is a problem, fiber can help with that too. A medium banana contains about 3.1 grams of fiber, making them a good source of fiber. Different dogs have different dietary fiber needs, so consult with your vet with any questions. Looking for other high-fiber fruits you can share with your dog? Check out our article on apples for dogs!

4) Vitamin B6: Regulates Blood Cell Function

Vitamin B6 is also known as pyridoxine and is part of the Vitamin B complex. Deficiencies of vitamin B6 can lead to anemia, kidney stones, tooth cavities, and more. Vitamin B6 is involved in a lot of important things relating to blood health! For instance, B6 supports making antibodies which fight infection. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels, and aids in making red blood cells. According to Peteducation.com, the minimum daily dose of B6 for dogs is .01mg/lb. So, a 10-pound dog would need 0.10mg per day, and a 65-pound dog would need 0.65mg of Vitamin B6 daily. A medium-sized banana has about 0.43 milligrams of Vitamin B6, so sharing a banana with your dog can be great for ups that need more B6. As always, consult with your veterinarian about your dog's nutrition.

5) Magnesium: Helps with Proper Bone Growth and Vitamin Absorption

Magnesium is necessary for absorbing vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and potassium. Bananas are high in magnesium— one medium banana has 33mg. It also supports bone growth, so it is important for growing pups! 

Why Do Dogs Like Bananas?

In comparison to what you eat, your dog's diet is relatively bland. On top of that, they probably get the same food and dog treats week after week. The sweet taste of bananas is appealing to many dogs, and a nice change from a bland or otherwise routine diet.

Can Puppies Eat Bananas?

If you have a puppy, congratulations! As a new dog owner, you are probably doing a ton of Googling trying to learn everything there is to know about raising your pup. Lucky for you, when it comes to whether bananas are good for puppies, the answer is yes! Just like adult dogs, puppies can have bananas. In fact, you can even try freezing your bananas. The frozen bananas will feel great for teething puppies and are a great snack in the warm summer months. Because of the magnesium in bananas, which is important for bone growth, bananas can be a great part of a balanced diet for a puppy.

Can Dogs Eat The Banana Peel?

No, they cannot. The inner banana can be eaten by your dog, but they should be not be eating the actual banana peel. Banana peels are hard to digest and can create a blockage.

How Should I Feed My Dog Bananas?

Share When it comes to giving your dog a banana, the easiest way is to break a piece off of the one that you're eating! Eating large chunks of banana can cause blockages, so keep your pup from gobbling them up

Slice and Dice Eating large chunks of banana can cause blockages, so keep your pup from gobbling them up whole. Rather than giving them the whole banana cut or tear it into smaller pieces.

Mash You can also mash the banana into a tasty paste. If you want to give your dog a dessert level meal now and then, try mixing mashed banana into dry food.

Bake  Another great way to share the benefits of bananas with your dog is by including it in a homemade treat! 

How Much Banana Can I Feed My Dog?

You should always consult your veterinarian about your dog's diet and what is safe to feed them. Typically, small breeds should only be eating a few pieces a few times per week. Medium-size to large breeds can have half a banana once or twice a week.

🍌 Alternative Dog Treats to Bananas:

Daily Dental Chews

Beef Jerky for Dogs 

Now You Know How to Feed Bananas to Your Dog!