Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates? (Risks Of Pomegranates for Dogs?)

Pomegranate is a delicious fruit, perfect in its balance of being both sweet and tart. While they are a pain to dissect, once you get to the juicy seeds in the middle, all of the work will be worth it.

Pomegranates are some of the most nutritionally dense foods available for humans, but the conclusion is definitive on how good they are for dogs.

Can Your Dog Have Pomegranates?

Most veterinary experts say you should not feed your dog pomegranate in any form. This isn’t just based on research; most dogs who eat pomegranate seeds end up sick shortly afterwards. Veterinarians’ best guess is dogs aren’t able to handle the type or amounts of antioxidants that make pomegranates so healthy to humans.

Dogs absolutely require antioxidants in their diet, but tannins, the types found in plants, aren’t necessary for a dog’s overall health.

Pomegranates are bursting with tannins, as well as anthocyanins and ellagic acids. The canine body tries to break these down, but the digestive tract is unable to, resulting in a stomach ache or vomiting and diarrhea.

The seeds are the part of the fruit that’s most commonly eaten. If you’ve never had a pomegranate, the seeds are the part of the fruit filled with the sweet juices.

To extract the juice, you have to crush the seed in your mouth. The seed can be eaten or it can be spit out if you don’t like it.

Unfortunately, dogs can’t–or won’t–spit the seed out, and too many of them can cause diarrhea because their stomach and intestines aren’t designed to digest seeds. It’s not uncommon to see the seeds pass through the entire body undigested.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats Pomegranate

There’s always that one dog that will stop at nothing to taste what you’re eating or steal whatever you don’t want him to have. If your dog somehow gets into a pomegranate, don’t panic.

His stomach might become rumbly, his bathroom breaks might increase in frequency, and he might vomit, but it’s unlikely to result in anything fatal.

Vomiting is normal, and you don’t need to be alarmed or seek veterinary attention unless it continues for more than 24 hours or they become extremely weak and lethargic. Vomiting is good in some cases because it’s the body’s way of getting rid of things that are making it ill.

If your dog has eaten pomegranates, simply watch them for excessive vomiting or diarrhea, especially if they’re unable to keep anything down. It’s best to withhold food for about six hours until the vomiting stops, and then start feeding small amounts of their regular food again.

Unfortunately, pomegranates are one of those foods that are best left unshared with your dog. Ignoring those sweet puppy eyes can be difficult, but giving in isn’t worth it if your dog is going to suffer from a pomegranite induced sour stomach afterwards.

A taste here or there probably won’t cause any issues, but don’t make a habit of sharing this fruity treat with them.

Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates? : The Ultimate Guide 2022!

Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates?

Many pet owners have a common concern: Can dogs eat pomegranates? They can, but they shouldn’t. Let’s dig deeper to find out more!

Pomegranates are delicious, antioxidant-rich fruit that can be enjoyed by humans and animals alike. However, although pomegranates are non-toxic for dogs, earring pomegranates can cause an upset stomach in dogs.

So, there are a few things you should take into consideration before giving your dog this food.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at whether can dogs eat pomegranates and the benefits and risks of feeding pomegranates to dogs. Stay tuned!

Pomegranates And Dogs

Pomegranate is a red-colored fruit like no other. They are a part of the fruit family, “Rosaceae,” including fruits like apples, strawberries, and pears. Most people only eat pulp-covered seeds of this fruit, but the white pith and the skin are also edible.

Pomegranate’s rich sweetness with a hint of tartness explodes beyond taste buds. Due to their unique sweet and sour flavor, pomegranates are commonly used in many desserts and foods like jams, juices, and salads.

Because of the fruit’s ubiquity, pomegranates bring another level of health benefits good for your body. This superfood is loaded with antioxidants, fiber, Vitamins, and minerals. So, pomegranate is an excellent addition to your diet if you want a healthy lifestyle.

Does that same apply to your dog?

Pomegranates and dogs are a safe combo because pomegranates are non-toxic to dogs. However, its seeds and peel can be harmful to dogs. This leads us to the ultimate question: can dogs eat pomegranates?

Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates?

Yes, dogs can eat pomegranates but only in moderation.

A small quantity of pomegranate is okay for dogs. A large portion of regular consumption should be avoided as it can lead to stomach upset and many other concerns.

Can Puppies Eat Pomegranates?

Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates?

No, puppies should not eat pomegranates or other fruits.

A puppy’s diet should contain simple puppy food that it can easily digest. You can safely give them a bite or two of certain human foods only to taste.

Do not replace their meal with fruits and vegetables, as it will restrict their daily nutritional intake and result in an upset stomach. Some human foods should be avoided at costs; these include:

  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Chives
  • Cooked bones
  • Macadamia nuts
  • Chocolate
  • Corn on the cob
  • Artificial sweetener (Xylitol)
  • Avocado
  • Alcohol

Is Pomegranate Safe For Dogs?

Yes, pomegranates are safe for dogs because they are not poisonous or toxic to dogs.

Dogs can safely eat any part of the pomegranate. However, feeding your dog a large number of pomegranates can result in adverse side effects.

Dogs are carnivores, so their digestive system is designed to process meat and high-protein foods. Thus, eating pomegranates and other fruits is not suitable for a dog’s gut health.

Moreover, Pomegranates do not contain all the nutrients essential to meet a dog’s daily dietary and nutritional requirements.

Are Pomegranates Good for Dogs?

Fruits are a great way to get your dog started on the right track toward healthy living. For one thing, they are packed with fiber which helps keep their gut moving smoothly and keeps them from having unhealthy snacks in between meals.

Sadly, this is not true for all fruits. Some fruits are actually harmful to dogs. Are pomegranates also harmful to dogs? Or are pomegranates good for dogs?

Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates?

Yes, pomegranates can be good for your dog (as long as they don’t overeat).

Here are a few reasons why pomegranates can be an excellent occasional snack for your dog:

Rich In Antioxidants

Pomegranate is one of the most antioxidant-rich fruits. It offers more protection against free radicals than any other food, making it a great healthy snack.

The antioxidants in our food and supplements help to protect us from free radicals, which can cause oxidative damage. Oxidative damage contributes to aging, while free radicals may play a role in different types of chronic diseases like cancer.

Thus, eating antioxidant-rich foods lowers the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other diseases related to chronic oxidative stress. So, adding dog-friendly antioxidant-rich foods to your dog’s diet will help prevent such health risks.

Pomegranate Peel Extract

So far, the potential for Pomegranate Peel Extracts to reduce the onset and severity of oxidative damage in dogs is exciting, as it could one day help protect their cells from aging or disease.

However, much research still needs to be done on the effects pomegranate has on animals, but so far, it looks promising.

Recent studies also show that this powerful fruit product can improve a dog’s digestive health!

Reduces Inflammation

Feeding your dog pomegranates can also reduce inflammation in dogs by combating free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause chronic disease.

Inflammation is an immune system response to injury or infection. It’s been associated with many chronic health conditions, such as ulcerative colitis or IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Inflammation in the gut caused by these diseases can be relieved with antioxidants.

This is why you should give some pomegranate to dogs if you have a dog with chronic inflammation-related issues like sore joints. Feeding your pup this fruit might make sure that all their pain goes away.

Boosts Immunity

Pomegranates are a great source of vitamin C, which can help your dog maintain their immune system. They also contain some Vitamin K that supports blood coagulation and prevents clots from forming in the first place.

However, Dogs typically only need a small amount of vitamins C and K in their diet because they can synthesize some on their own.

Are Pomegranates Bad for Dogs?

Although pomegranates offer many benefits, they also come with a few risks if consumed in large quantities by dogs.

Here are a few reasons why pomegranates are bad for dogs:

Contains Tannin

Dogs should not eat pomegranate skins and peels because they contain tannins. Tannin is a complex compound found in fruits and vegetables that can damage the kidneys and liver in dogs.

Upset Stomach

Eating pomegranate seeds can lead to digestive upset in dogs. Consuming too much pomegranate may also lead to an obstruction in their gut. Thus, eating large quantities of pomegranate seeds may lead to problems with your pup’s digestion.

Obesity

Pomegranates are very sweet because they contain a high number of natural sugars. Thus, feeding your dog too much pomegranate may lead to weight gain, which can result in obesity.

Diabetes

Canine diabetes is a common epidemic. Many dogs become diabetic because of poor dietary habits. Even feeding too many sugary fruits like pomegranates can lead to diabetes in dogs.

If you have an obese or diabetic pet, monitor their intake because certain foods may not be good for them and could lead to health complications.

Choking Hazard

Pomegranate rind is technically edible but should not be fed to dogs. You should discard it because it is too hard and can be a choking hazard for your dog.

Tooth Decay

Good oral health is also essential for dogs. Eating too many sugary foods can lead to tooth decay. So, avoid feeding pomegranates regularly to your dog.

What Are The Benefits Of Pomegranates For Dogs?

Pomegranates offer a wide range of health benefits for dogs, including:

Immune system support:

Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system.

Joint health:

The fruit’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce joint pain and swelling.

Skin and coat health:

The nutrients in pomegranates can help improve the skin and coat condition.

Digestive health:

Pomegranates are a good source of fiber, which can help promote regularity and prevent constipation.

Cancer prevention: Some studies have shown that pomegranates may help protect against cancer.

How Much Pomegranate Can Dogs Eat?

As stated earlier, dogs can eat pomegranates in moderation. It would be best if you only gave a small portion to your dog once a week. So, pomegranates for dogs are an occasional snack rather than a daily meal or treat.

Let’s take a look at the nutritional profile of pomegranates to understand better how much of it your dog needs to eat:

●     Nutritional Value of Pomegranates

Here are the nutrients and calories in a half-cup serving of pomegranate arils:

Total calories: 72

  • Carbohydrates: 16 grams
  • fiber: 3.5 grams
  • protein: 1.5 grams
  • Fats: 1 gram

Believe it or not but dogs do not need carbs in their diet to live a healthy life. Nutritionally, dogs require ZERO carbs.

Thus, even though ½ cup of pomegranate arils only contains 72 grams of carbs, that’s still a lot of carbs for a dog. 

That said, incorporating pomegranates into your dog’s diet can be a delicious and nutritious addition but only in a limited amount.

Considerations When Feeding Your Dog Pomegranate

Pomegranates contain antioxidants and nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, or K, which can help your pet live a healthier life but simultaneously, they also pose risks if consumed in large quantities. So, what should you do?

Keep these things in mind when feeding pomegranates to dogs:

Remove Rind:

The pomegranate is a delicious fruit, but its skin can be a choking hazard and can pose an intestinal blockage risk that could kill your pet instantly. So, always make sure to remove the skin before feeding pomegranate to your dog.

Serve It Fresh:

Stale or rotten fruits can be harmful to dogs. Make sure to check for freshness before feeding your pup any pomegranates.

Watch Portion Size:

The tannins in pomegranates may cause stomach upset, especially for dogs. This can also induce vomiting and diarrhea. So, watch how much pomegranate your dog is eating.

Wash Thoroughly:

Pesticides and other chemicals used in growing pomegranate fruits can also potentially be harmful if consumed in large amounts. It is essential to thoroughly wash and clean pomegranates before consuming them to reduce the risk of ingesting any harmful chemicals.

Check Ingredients:

If you are giving your pooch any store-bought pomegranate treats, check ingredients for the presence or absence of anything that may concern pet owners, like kidney beans (which are also found in other fruits).

Risks Of Feeding Too Many Pomegranates

Eating a small number of pomegranate arils is not risky for dogs. The delicious fruit, pomegranate, is full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. So, it can be pretty beneficial for dogs.

However, if they eat too many, they can get digestive issues such as diarrhea or constipation. So, eating too many pomegranate arils at a time can make your dog sick.

At the same time, dogs that eat pomegranates regularly in significant quantities are more prone to obesity, diabetes, and gastrointestinal problems.

What To Do If My Dog Eats Pomegranate?

There is no need to go into panic mode if you find your canine companion munching on some pomegranate.

You only need to worry if your pooch has a sensitive stomach or suffers chronic health issues like obesity or diabetes.

Watch out for any adverse side effects. Consult your vet if you notice any symptoms like stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, or gas.

What To Do If My Dog Eats Too Much Pomegranate?

While it’s uncommon for a small amount of fresh pomegranate to cause any harm, larger quantities can lead your dog into trouble.

Overeating pomegranate can cause different adverse effects on your dog. These include bloat, stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy.

To prevent your dog from experiencing such side effects, be sure they drink plenty of fluids and watch for signs that something may have caused an upset stomach.

So, if your pet is experiencing increasingly worse symptoms or they haven’t improved after a day or two, call the vet ASAP!

Can Pomegranates Make Dogs Sick?

Pomegranate seeds can irritate your dog’s digestive system since they don’t break down. This might cause some stomach upset if he eats a lot, but generally, nothing too serious will happen to them.

Moreover, the high fiber and sugar content in pomegranates can upset your dog’s gut if they eat too much, but there are ways around this problem.

If you notice any vomiting or diarrhea after feeding their favorite fruit, we recommend cutting back on the amount given until it no longer causes distress for them.

To conclude, pomegranates can make dogs sick if you are not careful with how much the dog is eating. You don’t need to panic if your dog gobbles up a few arils. It is also okay if your dog eats pomegranate seeds every once in a while, as long as they don’t eat too many.

Can Dogs Eat Pomegranate Seeds?

Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates

The pomegranate is a fruit known for its tiny, fleshy arils that contain many small seeds. These sweet-tasting spheres are sometimes referred to as “pomelo’s seeds.”

Pomegranate seeds are safe for dogs, so dogs can eat pomegranate seeds. However, these harmless objects can be a choking hazard for small puppies.

Note: some dogs may be allergic to pomegranate, so you should check with your vet before giving any part of this fruit to your doggo. Stop giving your dog pomegranate seeds if you notice any signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as redness, swelling, and itching.

Are Pomegranate Seeds Poisonous?

No, pomegranate seeds are not poisonous. All parts of pomegranate fruit are safe for dogs and humans.

While pomegranate seeds are generally safe to eat, consuming large quantities may cause stomach discomfort or nausea. In rare cases, pomegranate seeds can also cause allergic reactions in some dogs.

Overall, moderate consumption of pomegranate seeds is unlikely to cause harm, but it is important to be aware of potential risks and take proper precautions when eating them.

Most Delicious Pomegranate Treats For Your Dog

Here are some yummy pomegranate treats to share with your furry friend:

Pomegranate Juice:

Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates

Fresh pomegranate juice will keep your dog hydrated and prevent any constipation and gastric issues. It’s deseeded, so you don’t have to worry about your dog choking!

Pomegranate Apple Gummies:

You can mix together fresh pomegranate juice, apple sauce, gelatin, and some basil to prepare a delicious sweet treat for your pup.

Pomegranate and Coconut Dog Biscuits:

Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates

Make a batch of coconut and pomegranate dog biscuits from scratch, or get a recipe mix from the store!

Store-Bought Treats: There are many pomegranate-flavored dog foods and treats available in the market. One of the best-selling pomegranate dogs treats on Amazon is Pomegranate flavored Gluten & Grain-Free Dry Biscuit Treats.

Frozen Pomegranate: Dogs love frozen treats. You can serve up a scoop of pomegranate sorbet to your dog. He will surely love it!

We have covered all the basics about dogs and pomegranates, but pet parents also have many more concerns. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about can dogs eat pomegranates:

Q1. Can Dogs Eat Pomegranate Yogurt?

Pomegranate yogurt is generally safe for dogs to eat. However, some dogs are lactose intolerant. You should not give your dog pomegranate yogurt if your dog is lactose intolerant or is allergic to pomegranate or yogurt.

Q2. Can Dogs Drink Pomegranate Juice?

Yes, dogs can safely drink pomegranate juice. Remember that fresh pomegranate juice is always better than packaged store-bought juice. Fresh one contains no artificial sugars, so it is much healthier.

Q3. Are Pomegranates Toxic To Dogs?

No, pomegranates are not toxic to dogs. They do not contain any toxic compounds that can cause poisoning in dogs. Every part of this fruit is safe to eat.

However, it is always recommended to remove the skin because it is hard. So, your dog will have trouble digesting the skin, and it can also be a choking hazard.

Q4. Can My Dog Eat Pomegranate?

Yes, your dog can eat pomegranates but only in small quantities. Do not feed your dog too much pomegranate or too frequently. Also, if your dog is allergic to pomegranates, you should not feed pomegranates to your dog.

Q5. Can My Dog Eat Pomegranates Daily?

No, dogs should not eat pomegranates daily. Maybe a few seeds won’t do any actual harm, but eating a serving of pomegranate every day can be hazardous to dogs. Dogs are carnivores, so they cannot digest pomegranates as well as humans and birds do.

Therefore, they should not eat too many fruits and vegetables daily because it can cause an upset stomach.

Q6. How Much Pomegranates Safe For My Dog?

Dogs should not eat more than half a cup of pomegranate arils once every few weeks. Eating too much or too frequently will negatively impact your dog’s health and result in bloating, abdominal pain, etc.

Q7. Can Diabetic Dogs Eat Pomegranates?

No, diabetic dogs cannot and should not eat pomegranates. The sugar in pomegranates will spike your dog’s blood glucose levels which can be very dangerous for your dog’s wellbeing.

As a matter of fact, diabetic dogs should generally stay away from all sweet foods and fruits to stay healthy.

Q8. Is It Bad To Feed Pomegranates To Dogs With Bad Stomachs?

Yes, dogs with sensitive or bad stomachs should not eat pomegranates. The pomegranate seeds can be hard to digest for dogs, so they can worsen your dog’s condition.

Instead, feed your dog simple high-protein foods like bone broth, shredded boiled chicken, or cooked rice and fish.

Recap: Can Dogs Eat Pomegranates?

Pomegranates are a nutrient-dense fruit, offering important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and folate. In addition to their nutritional benefits, pomegranates have been studied for their potential health effects on conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease.

Apart from humans, pomegranates are also a healthy snack for dogs and can offer a wide range of health benefits. However, it is important to consider a few things before feeding your dog pomegranate, such as the portion size and whether or not your dog is allergic to it.

From raw fresh pomegranates to home-cooked and packaged treats, there are a number of ways to incorporate pomegranates into your dog’s diet.

Note: If your dog exhibits any negative side effects after eating a pomegranate, please consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible.

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Jackob Evans

Hi, I’m Jacob. I’ve been a professional blogger for over six years, and in that time, I’ve written countless blogs that have helped millions of people worldwide. A DVM by profession, I have treated and cured thousands of dogs, if not millions.

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