Dog Care
Can Dogs Eat Bananas? Peels, Portions and Treat Ideas
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. Peeled banana is a safe, low-fat treat for most dogs and an easy reward to carry. Bananas are high in natural sugar, though, so keep portions small. Remove the peel, which is hard to digest, and skip banana bread, sweetened banana chips and anything with chocolate.
Are bananas good for dogs?
Bananas contain potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C and fibre. They are soft, so they work for puppies and older dogs with sensitive teeth. Most dogs already get balanced nutrition from complete dog food, so bananas are a treat rather than a supplement. The American Kennel Club recommends feeding them in moderation because of the sugar.
How much banana can a dog eat?
Keep all treats within about 10% of daily calories. A rough guide:
- Small dogs: 2 or 3 thin slices
- Medium dogs: about a quarter of a banana
- Large dogs: up to half a banana
Not every day. Diabetic and overweight dogs should have banana only if your vet agrees.
Banana peels, chips and banana bread
| Form | OK? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh peeled banana | Yes, small amounts | Slice or mash. |
| Frozen banana | Yes | A cooling treat; cut into pieces your dog can't swallow whole. |
| Banana peel | No | Not toxic, but hard to digest; can cause vomiting or a blockage. |
| Plain dehydrated banana (no added sugar) | Small amounts | Sugar is concentrated. |
| Banana chips | Not recommended | Usually fried and sweetened. |
| Banana bread or muffins | No | Sugar and fat; may contain raisins, nuts, chocolate or xylitol. |
Easy banana treats for dogs
- Mash a little banana into a lick mat and freeze.
- Mix mashed banana with a spoonful of plain yogurt and freeze in an ice cube tray.
- Stuff a rubber toy with mashed banana and a little xylitol-free peanut butter, then freeze.
My dog ate a banana peel
Banana peel isn't toxic, but it can cause vomiting or, in small dogs, a blockage. Watch for vomiting, a tender belly, straining or not eating, and call your vet if you see these or your dog ate a whole peel.
Other fruits dogs can eat
Dogs can also enjoy seedless watermelon, fresh pineapple, blueberries and apple slices without seeds. Grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs. Check any fruit with our can my dog eat this? food checker.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat bananas every day?
Small amounts occasionally are best. Bananas are high in sugar, so daily banana can add up, especially for small or overweight dogs.
Can puppies eat bananas?
Yes, a few small pieces of peeled banana are fine for most puppies as an occasional treat.
Do bananas help a dog's upset stomach?
Some owners offer a little banana, but too much can make loose stool worse. For vomiting or diarrhoea, ask your vet and follow a bland diet if advised.
Can dogs eat banana peels?
No. Peels aren't toxic but are hard to digest and can cause vomiting or a blockage.
Can cats eat bananas?
A tiny piece isn't toxic to cats, but cats are carnivores and get little from fruit.
Sources
Guidance follows the American Kennel Club and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
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