It’s natural to feel a little conflicted when serving fruits to a dog. We’re used to seeing dogs eating only meat and bones in cartoons, so knowing they can have fruit is often a surprise for many dog owners.
Although dogs can eat fruits, not all of them are safe. The list of toxic fruits that can kill a dog is long, so it’s important to research before serving anything to your puppers.
It’s also important to consult the vet because not all dogs will react the same way. Some dogs love particular fruits, while others puke their guts out after a small bite. So there’s a chance your dog could get sick, even if it’s eating something that’s typically dog-friendly.
Luckily, a few fruits are safe for dogs; some might even say you could add them to a dog’s daily diet. But is guava one of them? Or do you keep the green fruit away from your dog?
Guavas aren’t toxic for dogs, so they’re safe to eat. However, there are a few precautions to take before serving guava to dogs because things don’t always go smoothly.
So can dogs eat guava or not?
Well, you don’t have to worry about guava making your dog sick if you’re following the guidelines. Guava is a safe fruit, only in moderation. Overeating guava can make a dog extremely sick, so keeping the serving light is best.
There are also particular ways to feed guava to dogs; serving the wrong portion or part of the guava can be deadly. Seasoned guava or guava-flavored products can be deadly for dogs, so it’s best to stay away.
In short, yes, dogs can eat guava, but only in moderation. It’s also important to consult the vet to ensure you’re not endangering your dog.
You can tell a lot goes into this conversation, so let’s discuss this in detail.
Can Dogs Eat Guava?
Shortly, yes, dogs can eat guavas in moderation.
Guavas are loaded with carbs and sugars, which aren’t the safest nutrients for dogs. Overeating guavas can cause stomach problems, which could trigger severe health problems because of the excess sugar and carbs. This is why it’s best to serve guavas only in moderation.
However, your dog can safely eat guava if served occasionally, especially as a treat.
Is Guava Safe for Dogs?
Yes, guava is safe for dogs; you can serve guava to your dog occasionally in moderation.
Why Should Dogs Eat Guava In Moderation If It’s Safe?
You see, countless foods are generally safe but dangerous for dogs in excess because of their nutrients.
Dogs typically follow a protein and fat-rich diet, so their stomachs aren’t used to digesting other nutrients. It’s difficult for dogs to smoothly digest foods rich in nutrients like carbs, so taking unnaturally high doses will make them sick.
Yet, there is a small gap in a dog’s digestive capacity; it is small but makes it possible for a dog to digest something other than meat. So a dog can digest fruits and even vegetables, although it can only handle a small quantity at a time.
Guava has a high carb count, so it isn’t best for dogs in excess. However, you can benefit from a dog’s small fruit-digesting capacity by giving it guava. Occasionally eating controlled quantities of the fruit won’t harm your dog, so feel free to introduce your pupper to it.
Are Guavas Good for Dogs?
Why would you go through all the effort of giving guava to your dog? Believe it or not, guavas can actually be good for dogs.
Yes, guavas contain a few nutrients (carbs) that are dangerous in excess, but eating in controlled quantities can benefit dogs. Guavas contain a few minerals and other nutrients that are scarce in protein-rich foods, so a dog gains quite a few health benefits from eating them.
Let’s look further.
Nutritional Information of Guavas
A cup of guava contains:
| Nutrient | Nutritional Value | Daily Value % |
| Total Fat Saturated fat Trans fat Polyunsaturated fat Monounsaturated fat | 1.6 gram 0.5 gram 0 gram 0.7 gram 0.1 gram | 2% 2% – – – |
| Total carbs Sugar Dietary fiber | 24 grams 8.9 grams 15 grams | 9% 32% – |
| Protein | 4.2 grams | – |
| Minerals Sodium Potassium Calcium Iron Magnesium | 3.3 milligrams 689 milligrams 30 milligrams 0.4 milligram 36.3 milligrams | 0% 15% 2% 2% 9% |
| Vitamins Vitamin A Vitamin C Vitamin E | 1030 IU 376.7 milligrams 1.20 milligrams | 6% 419% 8% |
These nutrients are just some of the many in guava, so you can guess how healthy the fruit is. In fact, guava is one of the healthiest fruits for us; it aids digestion, boosts immunity, and even helps with period cramps.
Health Benefits of Guava for Dogs
Guavas are quite healthy for us, but do they offer the same benefit to dogs? You’ll be surprised to know that guavas can be quite healthy for dogs, despite their carb content.
These are just some of the benefits of guava for dogs:
● Boosts Metabolism & Aids Digestion
A cup of guava contains roughly 15 grams of fiber, which– a form of carb–helps the stomach metabolize and digest. The stomach doesn’t digest fiber, but it is a fuel for part of the digestive system.
Eating controlled quantities of guava boosts metabolism and digestion in dogs.
● Boosts Immunity
Guava is rich in immunity-boosting antioxidants and essential minerals and vitamins. Some nutrients like vitamin C fight free radicals, which can trigger cancer. Thus, eating guavas can fight diseases and risks like cancer in dogs.
● Strengthens Bone & Teeth
A cup of guava contains 30 milligrams of calcium and 688-9 milligrams of potassium. Calcium and potassium play a very important role in bone health, so eating guava can strengthen your pupper’s bone and accelerate healing.
● Improves Vision
Vitamins A and C in guavas strengthen and improve vision.
● Promotes Organ Health
Guava contains trace amounts of magnesium and iron. Although the minerals are present in small quantities, their effect is quite strong; they promote liver and heart health.
Although dogs need minerals, excessive amounts of them can be dangerous. Magnesium aids a dog in mineral absorption and prevents accidental overdoses.
● Improves Cognitive Functions
Potassium improves cognitive abilities in dogs.
What Are the Risks of Giving Guava to A Dog?
Dogs can eat guava, but they must be careful because overeating can cause some problems. There are also other minor risks to eating guava; let’s discuss them in detail.
● Choking Hazard
Dogs are known for their sharp canines, so many owners are surprised to know they can’t easily digest the tough exterior of guavas. Dogs might choke on partially chewed guava, causing difficulty in breathing.
The seeds of guavas aren’t any better; although small, they can lodge in a dog’s throat, closing it up and preventing air from passing through. Choking is a very serious concern and can cause death in dogs.
● Stomach Problems
Although guavas are good and even healthy for dogs, overeating them can be a problem.
Guavas are enriched with healthy nutrients, but dogs can’t easily digest them in excess, so eating more than the recommended quantity can trigger severe stomach distress.
➔ High Fiber
Guavas are high-fiber fruit. Dogs don’t necessarily need a high-fiber diet, so eating a lot of guavas can be troublesome.
Fiber slows digestion but aids metabolism, so it’s easier for the body to excrete waste. Although this quality is helpful, it can be too much for a dog; thus, eating a high-fiber fruit like guava can cause diarrhea and even trigger stomach pains.
➔ Too Many Carbs
Amylase is an enzyme that helps convert starch into simple sugars; it’s very difficult to digest carbs without amylase. Most research suggests dogs don’t have amylase, so giving them high-carb food is typically bad.
Don’t get it wrong; it’s not like dogs can’t eat carbs at all, but they’re not the healthiest nutrient for them. Eating too many carbs, especially at a time, can be very dangerous for dogs.
Dogs can only handle small quantities of carbs, so eating small quantities of guava is safe. Overeating guava and other high-carb foods can cause stomach aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea and possibly trigger long-term gastric problems.
Is Guava Poisonous to Dogs?
No, guava isn’t poisonous or toxic to dogs.
However, some farms and orchards ward off pests with pesticides/insecticides and even use chemical fertilizers. These pesticides and chemicals aren’t safe for you or your dog, so it’s best to serve organic guavas.
Crops sprayed with chemicals are often toxic, so you shouldn’t eat or serve them unwashed. Eating unwashed guava can cause toxicity, triggering food poisoning and severe health problems.
Are All Parts of A Guava Safe for Dogs?
Dogs frequently stumble into bushes and leaves when out on a walk, so the likelihood of eating a fallen fruit is quite high. While it’s cute to see a dog munching leaves or stems, you can’t be too careful because not all parts of the fruit are safe.
Guavas carry the same risk; the fruit is generally safe for dogs, but they contain a few parts that aren’t dog-friendly.
● Guava Leaves
Guava leaves contain countless nutrients, including minerals and acids, that can be toxic for dogs. Eating guava leaves can give your dog an upset stomach and trigger severe pain and vomiting.
● Guava Stem
You might have picked up a small branch/stem off the ground and used it to play fetch with your dog. But don’t play fetch with the stem of a guava tree because it’s toxic to dogs.
● Guava Peduncle
You know that weird, hairy thing at the top of a guava fruit? That’s the peduncle. This funny-sounding part of guava isn’t toxic, but I still advise staying away from it.
The peduncle has hair-like fibers which can stick to a dog’s throat, causing discomfort and possible choking. It’s also part of the fruit that catches the most chemical sprays, so chop it before serving guava.
● Guava Peel
Can dogs eat guava peels? I know I’ve said guava peels can be a choking hazard and dangerous when unwashed, but that doesn’t mean you restrict them completely.
Dogs can eat guava peels if you thoroughly wash and soften them in water. Softened peels from organic, clean guavas can be a great snack if your dog loves them.
Not all dogs will love the peel, so head with caution.
● Guava Seeds
Guava seeds can be a serious choking hazard, so your dog must avoid them at all costs.
In rare cases, guava seeds won’t choke a dog and move to the stomach, but they’re still pretty dangerous. This is because a dog’s stomach can’t digest the seeds, so they’ll cause stomach aches, cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
● Guava Pulp
A guava’s pulp (the fleshy part of the fruit) is the only part you can safely feed to a dog. The pulp isn’t toxic nor a choking hazard, so it’s pretty safe.
I will remind you that you should still control the quantity of guava you’re giving your dog because overeating can make it sick.
Is Raw Guava Doggy-Approved?
A raw guava is a little harder with a thicker skin, but it’s practically the same as a ripe one. Feeding raw guavas to a dog requires the same precaution as ripe guava, so you can serve it in moderation.
From one doggo owner to another: it’s best to stick to ripe guavas. Ripe fruits are much easier on the stomach, so you avoid any risks with raw fruit.
Things to Know Before Serving Guava to Dogs
Getting your vet’s approval and knowing the serving/portion size and how often you should serve a guava to a dog is important. Missing these steps can put your dog at risk, so paying attention is important.
● Dogtor’s Approval
Don’t introduce guava to your dog until the vet approves it. Not many owners know their dog’s medical history, so it’s best to ask the vet.
The vet will compare medical records, trace history, and even run allergy tests if you ask. These precautions will let you know whether guava is safe for your dog.
I know you’re thinking, why can’t I just give a small slice of guava and test it out? This is because a dog’s reaction to new foods depends on its health; some dogs can handle tough foods, while others can get sick from even a small quantity. It’s best to consult your vet, so you don’t unintentionally hurt your dog.
● Is there A Limit to Guava?
Guavas are safe for dogs in moderation, but how much can you manage in this small limit?
There are two main ways to prevent your dog from overeating guavas: the first is the portion size, and the second is how many times you’re serving guava.
➔ Portion Size
It’s best to serve up to half a cup of guava to your dog at a time. While some dogs can stomach eating more than this portion size, it’s best to keep it to a minimum to prevent stomach problems.
➔ Frequency
I don’t recommend going overboard with serving guavas to dogs because consistently eating them might not be healthy.
You should serve guavas as an occasional treat or once a month only.
● Can Guava be a Regular Part of a Dog’s Diet?
You may serve guava to your dog as part of its occasional diet, but it’s best if you don’t serve it daily. Allow me to elaborate.
A dog’s diet should primarily consist of protein mixed with some vegetables, rice, and kibble. However, you can add fruit to the diet once or twice a month for flavor and health benefits.
I wouldn’t recommend serving fruits every day because they contain sugar, and eating them daily can harm your pup. Instead, it’s best if you serve fruits as an occasional treat.
You can serve guavas as a regular pattern (once a month) but not daily. Eating a little bit of guava once a month is healthy for dogs, but eating even the tiniest amounts daily can seriously harm your dog’s health.
Prep 101: Guava for Dogs
We’ve covered the basics, so let’s talk about how to prepare guavas for dogs.
1. Buy from the Right Place
You must buy from an organic seller. Organic fruits aren’t sprayed with harmful chemicals, so they’re much safer than locally-grown fruit.
2. Rinse before Serving
Never serve guava or any other fruit without rinsing it first. Washing organic fruits is also important because they can collect dust on your way home.
Place the guava under a spout of running water and rub the skin with a soft brush or sponge. You can also wash it with your fingers, but sponges/brushes are much more rigorous cleaners.
3. Remove Inedible/Harmful Parts
Remove the stems, leaves, and seeds. Before serving, you should also remove the guava’s top part (peduncle).
Removing the seeds by cutting the guava in half and slicing out the core is best.
4. Peel or Soak and Soften
Serving rinds is up to your (and your doggo’s) choice, so you can either peel them away or soften them for your dog.
● Serving Peeled Guava
Throw away the peels in an out-of-reach bin if you’re serving peeled guava so your dog doesn’t accidentally eat them.
● Serving Guava with the Rinds
You can soak the rinds in warm water for a few minutes to soften them for your dog.
5. Adjust Serving & Bite Size
Cut the guava into thumb-sized cubes, so it’s easier for the dog to chew and swallow them. You can measure the guava cubes in a cup to ensure you’re not overserving them.
6. Serve
I don’t recommend serving guava as soon as you’ve cut it because not only will your furry pal develop a habit of eating straight from the kitchen, but it’ll also expect you to serve what you’re chopping every time.
While this may seem harmless, it’s difficult to handle when cutting up something that your dog shouldn’t eat.
Trust me; I’ve dealt with puppy eyes and long whines way too many times because of this innocent habit, so consider this a friendly warning.
Serving guava as a treat is your best option because you won’t overserve it, and you’ll get a pupper that’s very happy to get a sweet reward.
Can Dogs Eat Guava-Flavored Products?
Can dogs eat guava-flavored products? Let’s see:
● Canned/Tinned Guavas
Experienced dog parents already know this, but if you’re a newbie, you must never serve anything out of a can to your dog.
Canned/tinned foods contain preservatives and seasonings that are highly toxic to dogs, so it’s best to avoid them. Canned fruit is the worst because it absorbs all the sugar from the sweet water in the can.
Your dog will get extremely sick from eating tinned guavas, so don’t let it near them.
● Guava Cheese
Guava cheese contains sugar, salt, lemon juice, guavas, and water. Most of these ingredients are toxic for dogs, so it’s best to stay away.
● Guava Jam
Guava jam is loaded with sugar, so it’s unsafe for your dog.
● Guava Jelly
Although gelatin is safe for dogs, the other ingredients in jelly aren’t.
Guava jelly contains a lot of sugar, which is harmful to dogs. Packed or ready-to-make guava jellies may contain preservatives or harmful chemicals, so don’t trust those market brands.
● Guava Juice
Guava juice contains sugar, so it’s not safe for dogs. But here are ways to make dog-safe guava juice, so let’s go into details.
➔ Packaged Guava Juice
Packaged guava juice contains sweeteners like xylitol and other toxic ingredients for dogs, so stay away.
➔ Homemade Guava Juice
You can make unsweetened guava juice at home, but it’s only safe for your dog under strict conditions:
- You mustn’t add any sugar, salt, or other seasonings to the juice.
- The more watery the juice, the safer it is for your dog. Guava juice is concentrated, which can be dangerous. However, you can water it down by adding ¾th of water and limiting guavas to only ¼th. In simpler terms, you’re simply making guava-flavored water for your dog.
- Don’t serve your dog more than half a cup of juice because it can be dangerous.
● Guava Muffins
Muffins, cakes, and most baked items are full of carbs and harmful seasonings, so dogs are not safe.
● Guava Paste
Guava paste has a high sugar content, so it’s dangerous for dogs.
Doggo-Friendly Fruits You Can Serve Instead of Guava
Can dogs eat guava? Yes.
But there are many wondrous fruits you can serve instead of guava. It’s important to remember that fruits aren’t a usual part of a dog’s diet, so they’re best in moderation.
● Mango
Dogs can eat mango pulp in moderation. Controlled quantities of mangoes are healthy for dogs and provide them with many nutritional benefits.
● Pineapple
Controlled quantities of pineapple are great for dogs; pineapple builds immunity and protects nerve functions in dogs.
● Watermelon
Seedless watermelons are a great way to boost your dog’s hydration and immunity in the summer.
Final Words | Can Dogs Eat Guava?
Fruits aren’t part of a dog’s routine diet, so it’s never a good idea to serve more than what the vet recommends.
Eating controlled quantities of guava is beneficial, so you can serve it in moderation. Guavas boost immunity, strengthen bones, vision, and muscle functions, and improve nerve functions in dogs.
Never serve anything to your dog without consulting the vet. Some dogs are allergic to dog-friendly foods too, so asking the vet prevents unintentional harm.
Overeating guavas can cause stomach problems, so don’t serve more than half a cup at a time. Guava seeds, leaves, and stems are highly dangerous for dogs, so remove them completely before serving.
It’s optional to serve guava peels, but you should soften them by soaking them in water before serving.
