Can dogs eat nectarines?
The short answer is yes, dogs can eat nectarines. That said, there are many caveats attached, which we will unravel as we dig into the details.
Dogs and Nectarines
Rich in minerals and vitamins, these bright-colored fruits are not only healthy but tasty as well. Inside their crimson peel, there is a tangy yet sweet peachy flesh that mellows into your mouth, rejuvenating tired taste buds and restoring your spirit.
While you are at it, why not indulge your dog in this tasty delight? But, first, you need to find out “can dogs eat nectarines?” And if so, how much nectarine can a dog eat, and with what caveats?
Can Dogs Eat Nectarines?
Yes, dogs can eat nectarines but only in moderation. Actually, nectarines are laden with fibers, which are undoubtedly useful for dogs as fibers help dogs with bowel movement, but ingesting in excess can be counterproductive, leading to tummy troubles such as diarrhea. More so, the high sugar content of nectarines can also upset our pup’s stomach and increase their chances of growing obese. And while feeding nectarines to your dog, you have to be a bit careful as nectarine pits contain cyanide.
Are Nectarines Healthy For Your Dog?
Yes, indeed.
Why? Let the nutrients tell us!
Below is the nutrient content found in one cup (143g) of raw nectarine.
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 62 kCal |
| Water | 127g |
| Protein | 1.52g |
| Total Lipid | 0.4g |
| Carbohydrate | 13.5g |
| Fiber | 0.858g |
| Sugars | 11.3g |
| Calcium | 2.86mg |
| Iron | 0.429mg |
| Magnesium | 12.6mg |
| Potassium | 187mg |
| Vitamin C | 4.15mg |
| Beta-carotene | 285µg |
Before diving into the details, you must know that according to the Association of American Food Control Officials (AAFCO) standards, there is a 10/90 rule: 10% of the dogs’ caloric intake should come from snacks and treats, while the remaining must come from their staple diet.
Moreover, per research, a 10kg dog requires 400 calories per day to stay healthy and active.
Keeping that in mind, let’s analyze the content of nectarine below.
Calories
A 10kg dog needs 400 calories, right? And as per the 10/90 rule, treats can only make up 40 calories in a dog’s daily intake.
But a cup of nectarine contains 62 calories, which means you’d have to take two or three chunks out to make a balance.
Water
Nectarines have 87% water content in them, meaning that they are an excellent summer treat and will keep your dog hydrated all day.
Nectarines are especially good for those dogs with high exercise requirements and work out for 2 to 3 hours a day. Intensive physical activities get them extra sweaty, lowering their water content. In situations like these, eating nectarine will maintain water content in their bodies and balance their pH levels.
Protein
One cup of nectarine has 1.52g of proteins. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which form the body’s muscles and play a vital role in overall body growth.
For dogs, the Association of American Feed Control Officials requires that dog food should contain 22 to 32% protein content. From that perspective, nectarines are not giving enough proteins to your dog. But as they are not part of regular meals, this much protein coming from a side meal will be enough for dogs.
Carbohydrate
After proteins, the important nutrient required for a dog’s health is carbohydrates.
Carbs are not only a sustainable source of energy but also keep hunger away for a longer time. As a dog’s stomach takes plenty of time to break down starch, dogs don’t get hunger pangs for a long time.
However, too many carbs are not suitable for dogs as they can cause stomach upsets and indigestion.
Fiber
Fibers ensure good digestion and absorption of food contents.
The fiber content of nectarine mainly comes from its peel. You can feed your dog nectarine peel, but avoid overfeeding it as it can cause stomach aches, constipation, and diarrhea.
If your dog is already having these issues, remove the peel before feeding it to your dog.
Sugars
Though nectarines are known for their high sugar content, it’s a good thing that slices of nectarine are not brimming with sugars. It is okay to feed them a few slices, depending on the dog size. But avoid overdoing it as overconsumption of sugars can cause gastrointestinal issues, diabetes, blood pressure issues, and hyperactivity.
Calcium
Calcium is important for bones, a healthy nervous system, muscle building, a strong heart, and proper growth.
Calcium is especially good for puppies because the body needs more minerals and vitamins in the developmental stage.
Lack of calcium leads to the loss of appetite, weakness, twitching, and muscle tremors. On the other hand, excess of calcium predisposes dogs to increased drinking and urination, bladder and kidney stones, and the loss of appetite.
Nectarines have a normal percentage of calcium, so dogs won’t get calcium high-lows.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a multifunctional mineral, contributing to bone strengthening and energy production at the cellular level. The latter—energy production—helps in the easy absorption of vitamins in the dog’s body.
Nectarines have a balanced amount of magnesium, enough to meet a dog’s daily magnesium requirements.
Beta-Carotene
Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that gives nectarines the shades of a peachy sunset. Antioxidants bind with the cancer-causing cells, thus preventing some serious issues.
When a dog chows down on nectarines, the beta-carotene turns into vitamin A in his body, improving his vision, organ functioning, and immune system.
Potassium
Potassium is an electrolyte that aids in the functioning of electrical charges in the heart, nerves, and muscles. If your dog is potassium-deficient, you may see that he is usually tired and doesn’t enjoy his daily meals. A few slices of nectarines may help him regain his lost energy.
Can Nectarines Make Dogs Sick?
Nectarines are safe and healthy for dogs as long as it is being fed sparingly—occasionally and in small amounts as a treat. But if consumed in excess or carelessly, it can make dogs sick. Below, we have discussed the potential health risks of nectarines for dogs.
Don’t Give Rotten Nectarines to Your Pup!
Rotten nectarines produce ethanol, which is toxic to pets, including dogs. So, you should never offer rotten or spoiled nectarines or any other fruits.
Diarrhea
As discussed above, nectarines are high in dietary fibers, which support dogs in their overall digestion and bowel movement. But the excess of dietary fibers is counterproductive and leads to the development of gastrointestinal health issues in dogs such as loose stool and diarrhea.
Obesity
The sugar content of nectarines is okay for dogs as long as they are consuming only two to three slices of nectarines. But in the event of the consumption of excessive nectarines, it may make your furry friend experience vomiting and diarrhea. More so, regular consumption of nectarines may also lead to an increased risk of obesity and diabetes in dogs.
Cyanide Poisoning
Just like apricot pits, nectarine pits contain a dangerous compound called cyanide, which can be deadly for dogs if consumed in a considerable amount.
Are Nectarines Poisonous For Dogs?
No, nectarines are not poisonous for dogs, but their pit is. Inner parts of the pit contain traces of cyanide that bind with oxygen in the dog’s blood and can cause death if consumed in large proportions.
Signs of Cyanide Poisoning in Dogs!
- Drooling
- Dilated pupils
- Panting
- Vomiting
- Nausea
How To Feed Your Dogs Nectarine?
- Wash them thoroughly to remove pesticides, spray particles, dust, and parasites.
- Peel off the skin. But it’s not necessary as nectarine peel is not dangerous for dogs.
- Remove the pit as it is poisonous and leads to choking hazards.
- Slice the flesh into medium-size chunks or slices and feed them to your dog one by one.
- You can mix it with other fruit chunks and make a fruit cocktail salad.
Can Dogs Eat Canned Nectarines?
No, you can’t feed dogs with canned nectarines because they are dipped in artificial sugars, preservatives, and flavor enhancers, which make your dog susceptible to diabetes, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Can Dogs Drink Nectarines Juice?
If you are talking about homemade nectarine juice that does not contain extra sweeteners and preservatives, yes, dogs can drink nectarine juice.
But, if it’s about the packed or tinned nectarine juice, then, no, you can’t let your dog drink that artificially prepared drink.
Can Dogs Have Fried Nectarines?
No, your dogs can’t have fried nectarine in oils. But if it is caramelized without oils, you can feed your dog some.
Can Dogs Eat Nectarines Yogurt?
Yogurt and other dairy products are prohibited if the dog is lactose intolerant. Else, your dogs can have nectarine yogurt that is not seasoned with extra dressings, sugars, and salts.
How Much Nectarine Can a Dog Eat?
Nectarines should be offered to dogs in small amounts. For small dog breeds, one or two slices of nectarine would be enough, and for large dog breeds, up to four or five slices will be just about fine.
Moderation is the Key!
Be it mangoes, apricots, nectarines, or any other human food that is safe for dogs to eat; it should be given to dogs in moderation. “The more, the better,” will be a loss for your dog here.
