Can Dogs Eat Watermelon Rinds? | Waldo's Friends

Home / Blog / Can Dogs Eat Watermelon Rinds?

Blog

Blog Hero

Dog Food

Can Dogs Eat Watermelon Rinds?

Can Dogs Eat Watermelon Rinds?

No, dogs should not eat watermelon rinds.

Watermelon is a refreshing fruit that contains large amounts of lycopene. It is a powerful antioxidant with multiple health benefits. It can protect a person from the sun, improve his heart health, and even lower the risk of certain types of cancer. Though the fruit itself is safe for dogs to eat in moderation, the rinds are a totally different matter. 

Because it is made of a hard outer layer, the watermelon rind is difficult for dogs to chew, swallow, and digest. Eating it can cause mouth or throat injury, or worse, lead to intestinal blockage. (This is also the case with watermelon seeds.) As such, it is not recommended for your dog to eat the fruit while it is attached to the rind.

What to do if your dog accidentally eats watermelon rind: Observe your dog for any changes. Watch for symptoms such as vomiting, dehydration, sluggishness, weight loss, anorexia, weakness, and diarrhea. Get in touch with your vet if he manifests any of these signs.

In summary: Consisting of 92% water, watermelon can be safely eaten by your canine pet as long as its seeds and rinds are removed. Always remove the juicy flesh from the rind before giving it to your pet, and discard the rinds properly to prevent accidents. Also, limit your fruit servings because too much of it may cause diarrhea.

Check out our “can dogs eat” category to read up on more human food your pooch can safely eat. 

References:

Can Dogs Eat This? The Ultimate Guide To 105 Food Items

Lycopene: Health Benefits and Top Food Sources

Can Dogs Eat Watermelon? Yes, But Lose The Seeds!

Intestinal Obstruction in Dogs



Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. All fields are required.

Check out related posts

uncooked rice

Can Dogs Eat Uncooked Rice?

No, dogs should not eat uncooked rice. Rice is a type of edible grain that comes from the seed of grass species Oryza sativa and Oryza glaberrima. Its popular forms include white and brown rice, which vary in how they are processed. The nutritional value found in each type also varies depending on the soil… Continue reading Can Dogs Eat Uncooked Rice?

instant oatmeal

Can Dogs Eat Instant Oatmeal?

No, it is not recommended for dogs to eat instant oatmeal. Typically eaten during breakfast, oatmeal is a hot porridge-like dish. Compared to other forms of oats, instant oatmeal is thinner and has a shorter cooking time. As such, many people opt to buy and eat it. The soluble fiber found in instant oatmeal is… Continue reading Can Dogs Eat Instant Oatmeal?

uncooked oatmeal

Can Dogs Eat Uncooked Oatmeal?

No, dogs should not eat uncooked oatmeal. Made from oats, oatmeal is a hot porridge-like dish. The cereal grains are edible seeds of oat grass, which are ground, rolled, or flattened. Dogs as well as cats can enjoy plainly cooked oatmeal devoid of other ingredients. It is a great source of plant-based protein, vitamins, minerals,… Continue reading Can Dogs Eat Uncooked Oatmeal?