Can dogs eat plantains? You may be asking this because you want to feed your furry friend a new snack. Humans can eat plantains, so are they also safe for dogs to eat?
The short answer is yes, plantains are safe for dogs to eat. This banana-like fruit contains vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to your pup’s overall health.
As with all human foods, you should consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog plantains. Here’s what you should know about feeding plantains to your dog.
How Are Plantains Good For Dogs?
Plantains are a staple in many different cultures’ cuisines, and they contain loads of nutrients that can benefit your dog, too. This fruit is loaded with fiber, which aids in your dog’s digestion. It is also a great source of vitamin C, which helps boost your pup’s immune system.
Plantains also contain good amounts of potassium and magnesium, both of which are essential to your dog’s health. On top of these qualities, plantains have a naturally sweet flavor that most dogs love.
How Can I Safely Give Plantains To My Dog?
Plantains are extremely tough when raw. Neither humans nor dogs should eat raw plantains, as they are difficult to chew and digest.
Typically, plantains are fried as a snack or added to dishes with rice and meat. Although fried plantains are delicious, you shouldn’t give them to your dog.
If you want to feed your dog plantains, you should roast or steam them after peeling off their outer layer. Additionally, you should cut them into bite-sized pieces to mitigate the risk of choking.
As with all of your dog’s snacks, it’s best to feed them plantains in moderation.
Plantains are very fibrous, so your pup may have some diarrhea if they are given too many plantains. This fruit also contains a good amount of natural sugar, so if your dog has a sugar processing disorder like diabetes, plantains are a no-go for them.
You might consider another high-fiber option, like Swiss chard or lotus root.
Has your dog ever eaten plantains? Do they like this interesting fruit? Let us know in the comments below!
