Can Dogs Eat Dates?

Yes, dogs can eat dates. Dates are okay for dogs, and they’re super high in calories, which means they provide a lot of energy. They’re also rich in minerals and nutrients, so they are healthy too. However, dates are super sweet, so you shouldn’t give them to your dog all the time.

Table Of Contents

Are dates safe for dogs?
Health benefits of dates for dogs
FAQs

Dates are a complex carb, naturally sweet, with lots of sugar and fiber. It’s no wonder that athletes, like the best tennis player in the world, Novak Djokovic, love them and use them as an energy source! But because they are such a great energy source, you shouldn’t give your dog too much.

Unlike some other fruits that are great for dogs, like apples, mulberries, and even exotic ones that they can eat, like dragon fruit and lychee, dates are super-high in calories and a real energy bomb. Your dog should only have one or two dates per week, not even per day.

Are dates safe for dogs?

They absolutely are! You may think that since they are dried fruit, they are dangerous, but that’s not the case! Raisins are a no-go—they’re super toxic to dogs and can mess up their kidneys big time, even if they only eat a few. But dates? Totally different story. Dates are safe, non-toxic, and a good source of fiber. You can give them to your dog, but just don’t go overboard.

Now, about those pits. Date pits aren’t toxic like the pits from peaches, plums, or cherries, so that’s a relief. But they’re still not something you want your dog chewing on. Pits can break teeth and cut gums, and if swallowed, they can cause some serious internal issues. So, always take the pits out before letting your dog have a date.

Health benefits of dates for dogs

Dates aren’t just a tasty treat—they’re actually loaded with vitamins and minerals that can be really good for your dog. They’re a great source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and several B vitamins, including B6. Potassium is great for their heart and muscles, magnesium helps with bone health, and vitamins A and C are important for their immune system and skin. Plus, the B vitamins support brain function and overall energy.

Now, dates can come in handy if you’re heading out for a long run or hike with your dog. Because they’re high in natural sugars, dates give a quick energy boost that can keep your dog going strong during those extended activities.

A word on sugar and dogs

One medium date has about 16 grams of sugar, which is quite a bit for a small fruit. When it comes to dogs, their diets should ideally be sugar-free. Unlike humans, dogs don’t need added sugars in their diet. Their bodies are designed to get the energy they need from proteins and fats, not sugar.

Sugar is not dog-friendly

Dogs can digest sugar, but it’s not as efficient an energy source for them as it is for us. When dogs eat too much sugar, it can lead to weight gain and dental issues in the long run. That’s why it’s important to keep their sugar intake to a minimum, even if it comes from natural sources like dates.

So now you know that dogs can eat dates, but it’s best you don’t overdo them! Dates can be a healthy treat in moderation. Just make sure to remove the pits and keep an eye on your dog’s sugar intake.

FAQs

Here are the most popular questions. If you have any comments that you want to share with us, please feel free to get in touch below!

Can dogs eat Medjool dates?

Yes, dogs can eat Medjool dates. Just like regular dates, they’re safe and packed with nutrients. However, Medjool dates are usually larger and contain more sugar, so be mindful of portion sizes.

Can dogs eat pitted dates?

Yes, dogs can eat pitted dates. In fact, pitted dates are the only thing we recommend for dogs, as pits can be a choking hazard, it can hurt their mouth and could cause internal damage if swallowed. Always remove the pits before giving dates to your dog.