It is common for us dog owners to ask whether a particular food is safe for our pets. In this article, we will answer one of the most asked questions: Can Dogs Eat Dates?
I am sure that as a dog owner, you have wondered what can we eat that our pets can eat safely, too. It is important because having an extensive knowledge on this matter allows us to prepare our dogs’ diet.
Moreover, it makes it possible to protect our dogs from choking, poisoning, among others. While there are enough nutrients in dog food, our pets, like us, would want to eat in variations.
I am not the first one to ask questions such as:
- Can dogs eat garlic?
- Can dogs eat dates?
- Can dogs eat bananas?
- Can dogs eat pickles?
So, in today’s discussion, can dog eat dates?
Answered: Can Dogs Eat Dates
The good news is that the answer to the question, “Can dogs eat dates?” is a resounding YES.
While some fruits and vegetables are not safe for dogs such as currants, grapes, raisins, and excessive onion and garlic, dates make significant exceptions.
Here’s the thing. You might be asking, “can dogs eat dates” because of raisins. However, do not confuse raisins with dates. They may look similar, but they are completely unrelated. Raisins are dried grapes. Meanwhile, dates are harvested from date palm trees.
Dogs love eating. They will munch pretty much anything that is handed out to them, especially small treats that are far from their frequent meals.
That being said, dates are perfect rewards when you play with or train your pooch. Instead of giving them unhealthy snacks or bones, you can provide them with nutritious ones.
On the other hand, you can also feed your dog with dates to cheer them up when they are down. We are not the only ones who like to indulge in gastronomic delights when we are feeling sad. Dogs need and love to “stress eat” as well.
Health Benefits of Eating Dates
Thankfully, the answer to the question, “can dogs eat dates?” is a YES. This means your dog can enjoy the following benefits:
Rich in Essential Nutrients
Dates are cholesterol-free and low in fat. This is exactly why dates help maintain the wellness of our cardiovascular (CV) and digestive systems.
Moreover, they are rich in vitamins and minerals that are good for our four-legged friends and us as well.They contain vitamins:
Rich in Naturally-Occurring Sugars
Dates contain high levels of the following:
- Fructose;
- Glucose; and
- Sucrose.
This means that they can boost your dog’s energy in an instant. As a result, your dog can become more active and alive while you are playing or training with dates.
Let us not forget that chocolates are toxic for dogs. It is just sad to know that they cannot experience such goodness. What better way to let your pooch enjoy sweets than to give him or her one of the healthiest alternatives.
Rich in Fiber
Dates contain fiber, which has a primary function of enabling normal and healthy digestion. While it is not considered as an essential nutrient among dogs, it comes with numerous health advantages.
Naturally viscous, fiber slows down glucose absorption and starch digestion. As a result, it can regulate and maintain blood sugar levels.
Other significant benefits include the following:
- Prevention of: Constipation, Diabetes mellitus; and Diarrhea.
- Improvement of colon health, reducing colon cancer risk
- Efficient weight management.
How Can Dogs Eat Dates
Now that you know all the benefits of feeding your dog with dates, you might still wonder how can dogs eat dates. Well, worry no more because here is everything you need to remember:
1. How can dogs eat dates when I am not sure about the proper way to feed my pet with these treats?
It is simple: just remove the pits from the dates.
First, slice each date lengthwise. Pull each one open and take out each pit.
Your dog may choke on pits. Worse, they can get stuck in his or her intestinal tract, leading to fatal digestive blocking.
2. How can dogs eat dates when I am not sure if my pet will like it or not?
During the first time, feed your dog with just a small amount to determine how his or her system will react. Dates are safe for dogs and generally allergen free, but it still matters to be cautious. Make sure that your dog likes them before giving him or her a plenty amount.
3. How can dogs eat dates when I am not sure how few or how plenty my pet can tolerate?
Even if dates are not toxic for dogs, it is still important to keep your dog’s consumption in moderation. Anything in excess can result in troubles in the long run. Remain in mind that these treats have high levels of sugar, which may not be safe for your furry friend when abused.
Conclusion
Dogs are not sensitive, especially when it comes to the food they eat. However, as a dog owner, you are your pet’s parent. Hence, it is normal for you to be concerned about his or her well-being. The same goes about being cautious regarding what you feed him or her.
With dates, you do not have to worry about your dog’s health as long as you provide them in moderation. They are rich in essential nutrients and sugars, promoting your beloved pooch’s overall well-being.
The next time a friend or a colleague asks you, “can dogs eat dates?”, you now know what to tell them!
Do you have any questions similar to, “can dogs eat dates?” and “how can dogs eat dates?”
Are there any food items you want to feed your dog but unsure whether they are good for him or her? Tell us and together, let us find out the answer!
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References:
http://www.furrytips.com/can-dogs-eat-dates/
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-dates.html
http://www.practicalpaw.com/can-dogs-eat-dates/