Your dog’s giving you those puppy eyes while you’re enjoying a juicy mango. Naturally, you wonder: can my four-legged friend have a taste? The short answer is yes, but there are some important things to watch out for.
What parts of mango can and can’t dogs eat
The flesh of the mango is safe for dogs and packed with beneficial vitamins including A, B6, C and E. But that’s not the whole story – some parts of the mango are actually dangerous for your dog.
The skin is best avoided. It’s difficult to digest and may contain pesticides. Additionally, the skin contains latex, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs such as itching or swelling.
The pit is an absolute no-go. It contains toxic substances like cyanide and persin, and also presents a choking and blockage hazard. In my experience, I’ve seen dogs requiring surgery because a pit blocked their intestines.
How much mango can your dog have
With fruit, less is often more. For mango, stick to a maximum of 30 grams per 10 kg of body weight per day. So a 20 kg dog can have about 60 grams of mango – approximately 4 tablespoons.
Mangoes contain quite a bit of natural sugar. Too much can lead to stomach issues, diarrhoea or even weight problems in the long term. Just as with humans: a bit of fruit is healthy, but overdoing it has the opposite effect.
Allergies and introducing mango for the first time
Giving your dog mango for the first time? Start with a small piece and see how they react. Some dogs can be allergic to the latex in mangoes, which might cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy.
Wait 24 hours after the first taste before giving more. Just as with other new foods – think of acorns that dogs sometimes find outdoors – caution is advised.
How to safely give mango to your dog
The preparation is actually the most important part. Wash the mango thoroughly, peel it completely and remove all pit remnants. Cut the flesh into small pieces appropriate for your dog’s size.
Frozen mango chunks are a hit in summer – a cooling and healthy treat. You can also purée the flesh and mix it with some natural yoghurt without added sugars.
Always avoid tinned mango or other processed varieties. These often contain extra sugars and preservatives that aren’t suitable for dogs.
When it’s better not to give mango
If your dog has diabetes or is overweight, it’s best to skip mango due to its high sugar content. I’d also be careful with dogs that have sensitive stomachs – the fibres and sugars can cause additional stress.
If you’re unsure about the right amount or if your dog reacts unusually, contact your vet. Every dog is different, and what’s fine for one might be too much for another.