It’s A Sweet, Nutritious Snack, Can Dogs Eat Dates?

If you’re a fan of naturally sweet, plant-based snacks, then you might be among those who love nibbling on a few dates.

And since delicious treats like these are worth sharing, you might also be tempted to give your pet a bite. But then again, can dogs eat dates? Are dates safe for dogs?

What’s healthy in the human world may be dangerous or toxic in the realm of dogs. With this in mind, it’s good that you asked if it’s safe to give your dog this fruit. This just shows how much you love and care for your pet dog. 

Seeing that you want to know if dates are among the “human” foods your dog can munch on, you won’t regret clicking on our site. After all, Dog Food Guide has a knack for answering any can dogs related and dog food-related questions. 

So, search no further because down below, you can expect to find everything you want to know about dates and their effects on your pet dog’s health.

What You Need To Know About Dates

Whenever we see dates, we’re reminded of raisins. That’s because we often see these fruits in their dried form (especially if you’re someone residing in the western part of the world). But this wonderful fruit is common in Middle East and North Africa, it is their staple food.

Dates, however, are stone fruits (much like its cousins cherry and plum) that come from a tree called the date palm. Interestingly, these have been around for over 8000 years.

And since this is known for its sugary taste, many (diet and health buffs included) opt to use this as a natural sweetener for pastries, desserts, and candies. 

As mentioned, dates are an excellent snack choice for health buffs. Why? Well, this humble treat packs a punch nutrition-wise. 

Dates may be high in sugar, but it’s also high in dietary fiber and antioxidants. These low-fat fruits also contain a lot of vitamins and minerals. This includes vitamins A, B vitamins, and vitamin C and calcium, magnesium, protein, potassium, and iron.

Can Dogs Eat Dates?

It’s good that we humans can eat dates. Can dogs eat it as well? The answer is Yes, dogs can eat dates. They are safe sweet treats for dogs but only in moderation. 

So, if you want to treat your dog to a healthy snack, feel free to give your dog dates. But just like other treats, dates must only be shared sparingly with your dog and must not be routinely included in your dog’s diet. You’ll know why down below, so keep on reading.

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Benefits Of Dates To Your Pet Dog

Since date fruit is loaded with nutrients, you’ll be pleased to know that your dog will reap a few rewards every time they gobble this down. And what are those? 

Here’s a rundown of some of the health benefits your pal could get from eating dates:

Aids Digestion

A fruit brimming with dietary fiber, this sticky snack is paw-fect for dogs that feel constipated. The effect of fiber on dogs is somehow similar to humans. Increasing your dog’s fiber intake will help in the formation of your dog’s stool. It will also promote regular bowel movement.

Reduces Risk Of Diseases

It may not look like it, but the dates’ antioxidant load is significantly higher than dried plums and figs. And, as we all know, antioxidants have a reputation for fighting off free radicals – atoms that damage cells and cause a bunch of diseases (think cancer and heart diseases). 

Instant Energy Booster

If your dog needs a boost in energy, giving them a treat high in natural sugars will do the trick—enter: dates. Now, as a dog owner, you can also use this as a great pick-me-up when you’re feeling a bit low in energy. 

Helps Manage Weight

Although high in sugar, dates are high in fiber and low in fat. This makes this a nice occasional treat for dogs who are trying to maintain their weight. 

Fiber slows down the digestion and absorption of glucose. It also gives the feeling of “fullness.” That said, feeding your dog dates will help your dog eat less.

Controls Blood Pressure

Dates contain potassium which can help manage your dog’s blood pressure. Apart from that, it also improves the functioning of muscles and regulates fluid balance.

Possible Side Effects Of Dates To Dogs 

Yes, it’s hard not to like its rich, sweet taste and chewy texture. What’s more, dates are healthy and offer heaps of health benefits. 

However, problems may arise if dates are eaten the wrong way. If you want to know all the risks, check out below:

Choking Hazard

Like any other stone fruit, you’ll find one stone-like pit in every date fruit (unless it’s seedless). As such, feeding dates can pose a choking risk if your dog somehow swallows the pits (especially if your dog is a small breed).

Intestinal Blockage

Apart from the pits getting trapped in your dog’s airways, it’s also possible for the pit to get lodged in your dog’s intestines. 

If you think your dog has swallowed a seed, watch out for any sign of distress as well as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and the like. Also, make sure to contact your vet if your dog displays any of these symptoms.  

Sugar-related Problems

While an increase in blood sugar levels is unlikely to happen due to dates’ low glycemic index, eating too many dates can still bring about sugar-induced health problems.

This includes dental issues like tooth decay. And since dates are also high in calories, overeating this can also lead to weight gain.

Stomach Upset

Apart from suffering from sugar-induced problems, eating too many dates can cause the digestive system to go haywire.

Remember that dates are fiber-filled, and too much fiber can lead to digestive issues like an upset stomach, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. 

Food Allergies

Although it’s rare for dogs to be allergic to dates, it’s still possible. So, if you’re dog shows any sign of irritation like itching or vomiting after eating dates, it’s best to give them some other grub.

Final Verdict

If your pup is in need of a healthy treat or an energy boost, giving them dates is okay. Unlike grapes or raisins that are toxic to dogs, dates are safe to eat and contain many vitamins and minerals that your dog can use. 

Keep in mind, though, that eating dates come with risks – many of which could potentially harm your dog. Good thing, there’s a way around it. Just keep these in mind for your pup to enjoy a risk-free snackin’.

• Choose pitted dates. Always remove the pit. 
• Too many dates are bad for your dog. How many dates, you ask? One or two pieces will do.
• Moderation is key, so give this to your dog sparingly.
• Giving your pooch a complete and balanced diet should always be your priority.