Durian fruit is delightful and delicious, although intimidating to look at. It’s hard and spikey on the outside, but smooth and creamy on the inside. But can dogs eat durian fruit? Is this very odd-looking fruit safe for dogs to consume?
For the most part, the short answer is yes; durian fruit can be shared with dogs, but only in very small amounts, with specific preparation. Both the skin and the seeds are toxic for dogs, but both can be removed safely and easily.
That said, always consult a trusted veterinarian before introducing such foods to your dog to ensure their safety. Here are a few simple facts about dogs and durian fruit that you can use to put together your questions for a call with the vet.
How Is Durian Fruit Safe For Dogs?
Most common to Southeast Asia, durian fruit is generally praised for its health benefits. For certain breeds or dogs suffering from specific ailments, these benefits can translate.
Let’s say, for instance, you have a dog who is struggling with keeping weight on or needs to gain weight for various reasons. Durian fruit is wonderful for this. It’s a high-fat, high-calorie fruit — the healthy and natural kinds, of course.
Due to these benefits, it may be a worthy inclusion in your dog’s diet, with veterinary consultation.
Of course, on the flip side of that, if your dog has weight issues or is of a breed prone to obesity, this fruit may not be a good choice. It can be safe for a very occasional treat but not as part of their core diet.
In terms of being an occasional treat, though, it is a healthy one. Durian fruit is loaded with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A and C, B6, calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, and more. There are certainly worse treats given to dogs.
How Can I Safely Give Durian Fruit To My Dog?
Safely giving your dog just a little durian fruit does require preparation. However, it isn’t difficult preparation — no more difficult than what humans do to eat the fruit, themselves.
The edible portion of the durian fruit is inside of its hard and spikey exterior. That’s where you’ll find the creamy and delicious flesh. However, within that flesh are seeds, which contain cyanide that’s toxic to dogs. But, they are very large seeds.
Preparation is similar to removing the pit of an avocado. The seeds are very easy to avoid consuming if you’re the one preparing the fruit for your dog.
If you remove the outer shell, the seeds, and all leaves and stems, it’s likely safe for your dog to eat. Should you decide to try out durian fruit with your dog, first consult your vet, and then, as they will tell you, closely monitor your dog’s reaction.
Have you ever shared durian fruit with your dog? Do you think it has health benefits? Let us know in the comments below.
