Yes. Dogs can eat mango!
As with any yummy treat, it’s natural to ask, “But can dogs eat that?” When it comes to mango, yes, dogs can eat mango, and they’re a healthy treat, too. But, not all parts of the mango are safe for dogs to eat. We spoke with Dr. Brittany Caramico, Associate Veterinarian at Furry Friends Adoption, Clinic & Ranch, to get all the juicy details about the safest way to feed your dog mango. Read on to learn more.
Benefit of Mangos for Dogs
- High in fiber, proteins, and minerals.
- Loaded with antioxidants such as beta-carotene, a pigment responsible for the yellow-orange color of the fruit, shown to fight free radicals.
- Contain vitamins B (including folate), B6, C, and E, as well as vitamin A, an essential nutrient for dogs that influences their reproduction, growth, skin, and coat.
- Can help with an upset tummy in small amount.
- Can help alleviate diarrhea and constipation.
How to Feed Mangos to Dogs
You should always consult with your vet before serving mangos to determine the right portion size for your dog. Even a healthy treat like mangos should be factored into your dog’s optimum daily balanced diet.
- Begin with a small amount to make sure your dog does not have an allergic reaction.
- Peel the skin which contains urushiol a chemical related to poison ivy and poison oak and, if ingested, can cause dogs to experience vomiting, diarrhea, and skin issues.
- Remove the pit which can be a choking hazard or become stuck in your dog’s digestive tract, which can lead to a serious and potentially fatal complication if left untreated. Symptoms of an intestinal obstruction include vomiting, decreased appetite, lethargy, and/or constipation. If you see any of these signs or think your dog has eaten a mango pit, consult a veterinarian immediately.
- Only feed your dog fresh, not dried mango which is typically high in sugar and calories. Unsugared dried mango has fewer nutrients than fresh mango.
Here are a few fun ways to feed mangos to your dog:
- Cut into chunks (about 1" cubes for larger dogs, half that size for smaller dogs) and feed as a sweet treat or training treat
- Freeze mango chunks and offer up on a hot summer day
- Add to a dog-safe smoothie bowl (recipe here) for extra hydration
- Sprinkle a few pieces as a topper on regular dog food
- Blend into a pooch-safe “Mutt Mocktail”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Is mango poisonous to dogs?
A:Not usually, but if your dog has pancreatitis or diabetes, Dr. Caramico recommends against letting your dog eat mango because of the sugar content, unless your regular veterinarian approves.
Q:Can dogs eat mango juice?
A:No. While fruit juices aren’t toxic to dogs, they often contain sugar, artificial coloring, and preservatives that aren’t particularly healthy for them. However, if you are making freshly squeezed juice at home and know that the only ingredient is the fruit, it’s OK to give your pooch a sip.
Q:Can dogs eat mango skin/peel?
A:No, they cannot. Urushiol is a chemical found in mango skin, poison ivy, and poison oak, so it could cause your dog to break out in a rash. If they do eat it, they may have difficulty chewing it and digesting it. They could suffer from an upset stomach, vomiting, or an intestinal blockage.
Q:How much mango can I give my dog?
A:When giving your dog mango, do not exceed a quarter of a cup once per week, or twice weekly for large breeds.
Top Dog Food & Treats with Mango
Addiction Homestyle Venison & Cranberry Dinner Raw Dehydrated Dog Food
Mix this dehydrated dog food with a little warm water and you have a delicious and nutrient-rich meal that has superfoods like mangos, papayas, apples, and carrots.
Dogswell Vitality Chicken & Mango Jerky Dog Treats
Made with real chicken, mango, coconut oil, and ginger, these treats are high in protein and support your pup’s overall health.
Honey I'm Home! Mango Jerky Natural Honey Coated Buffalo & Mango Grain-Free Dog Treats, 5.29-oz bag
Treat your pup to something sweet and savory with this chew made from grass-fed, free-range buffalo meat and dehydrated mango, all dipped in honey. They’re high in protein, low in fat, and made with naturally nutritious ingredients.
Before incorporating any new foods into your dog’s diet, always consult with your veterinarian to make sure it’s a safe addition to your pet’s diet given their health, diet needs, and current medications. Your vet will tell you if your dog can eat mango and the appropriate serving size. If you suspect your pet is sick, please call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your regular veterinarian when possible as they can make the best recommendations for your pet. (If you need help finding a vet near you use this link.)
Expert input provided by Dr. Brittany Caramico, Associate Veterinarian, Furry Friends Adoption, Clinic & Ranch in Jupiter, Florida.
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