Fruits are natural treats rich in nutritional value. Muskmelon, a succulent fruit belonging to the Cucumis family, has a wide range of edible varieties full of health benefits for humans.
The vibrant flesh, musky aroma, and cooling properties of muskmelon make it a popular fruit choice in summers.
Some fruits can be a very healthy snack for our furry friends, who are big fans of tasty delights. Does this include muskmelon? Can dogs eat muskmelon? Is muskmelon suitable for dogs? Read this article to learn more about dogs and muskmelons!
Can dogs eat muskmelon?
Muskmelon is safe for dogs. It contains vitamins A and C that are beneficial to pooches. However, make sure not to give your dog an excessive amount as it can cause stomach upset.
Muskmelon is rich in different minerals and vitamins that are good for dogs. As long as it is given in moderation, muskmelon will prove to be a healthy treat your pooch will love eating. One thing you need to consider is its high sugar content. This makes the fruit not an ideal choice for diabetic dogs.
What are the benefits of muskmelon for dogs?
Muskmelon can be very rewarding in terms of health to both humans and their furry companions. Some of the health benefits muskmelons have to offer for dogs include:
Source of hydration
During sunny summer days, dogs love spending their time playing outdoors. You need to keep your Fido hydrated when temperatures are high. Muskmelon is 90% water. Feeding it to your dog during summer will significantly reduce the risk of dehydration.
Source of nutrients
The musky fruit contains many nutrients that contribute to a dog’s well-being. Nutrients included in muskmelons that are great for dogs are:
- Vitamin A: The essential vitamin protects the dog’s eyes from many harmful diseases and keeps them in good shape. Furthermore, it also aids in bone growth and enhances immune function in pooches by protecting their bodies from free radicals.
- Vitamin C: Besides defending against free radicals like vitamin A, this antioxidant helps in reducing cognitive aging in dogs, ensures strong bones and teeth, and makes the fur shiny and smooth.
- Potassium: The electrolyte controls different bodily functions ranging from regulating heart contractions and muscle contractions to maintaining fluid balance in dogs. A balanced intake of potassium promotes healthy nerve function in canines. Muskmelon possesses a decent amount of this vital mineral.
- Folate: Vitamin B-9 or folate is used by the dog’s body for DNA synthesis and the formation of red and white blood cells.
- Niacin: This vitamin transforms carbohydrates and fats into energy and fights a disease called hypercholesterolemia which causes high cholesterol levels in the dog’s blood.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in the energy production process, but it also helps maintain healthy bones and a normal heartbeat.
These nutrients play a significant role in maintaining a healthy body function in pooches.
Treats constipation
Constipation is a common health problem in dogs. Muskmelon contains dietary fiber that assists in treating constipation in dogs. It helps maintain a healthy microflora balance in the digestive tract and prevents dry poop.
Low in calories
High-calorie treats can be injurious to dogs in the long run. If you want low-calorie food to reward your dog with, muskmelon can be a handy choice.
The fleshy fruit is criminally delicious for the number of calories it contains. Having minimum calories, you can feed your dog muskmelon without worrying about unwanted weight gain.
How to serve muskmelon to dogs?
Muskmelon contains edible seeds but can be a choking hazard for the canine. You also need to remove the rind as it’s extremely hard to digest and can cause intestinal blockage. After getting rid of seeds and rind, cut the fruit into small bite-sized pieces and serve. You can serve it fresh or frozen. You can also give your dog muskmelon juice.
How much muskmelon can dogs eat?
Muskmelon should not account for more than 10% of your dog’s diet. Eating too much muskmelon can cause diarrhea and vomiting in pooches.
Your dog needs a balanced diet composed of different foods that play specific roles in contributing to your dog’s health. No matter what food, when given in immoderate quantities, it can have a negative impact on the dog’s body. The same goes for muskmelon. You should provide your dog muskmelon occasionally and in moderation.
What type of muskmelon is best for dogs?
There are different varieties of muskmelon like honeydew, canary, Charentais, cantaloupe, etc.
However, the most popular muskmelon choice is cantaloupe for dogs because of its strong aroma, which is very appealing.
Dogs tend to prefer foods that have a strong aroma. While honeydew or canary is still good for dogs, they both do not have a powerful scent and may not be as alluring to the canine as cantaloupe.
Related FAQs to muskmelons and dogs!
Can dogs eat cantaloupe muskmelon?
Cantaloupe muskmelon is safe for dogs to ingest. It is filled with many great nutrients for a dog’s health. However, make sure not to give your dog too much cantaloupe as it can negatively affect its health.
Can dogs eat muskmelon peel?
The rind of muskmelons can be very difficult for dogs to digest. Their digestive system struggles to break it down, and it can lead to intestinal blockage.
What happens when a dog eats melon?
Melons are not usually toxic to dogs. The main concern is the seeds that pose a threat of choking. The rind, if swallowed, can also be fatal to dogs.
Can dogs eat honeydew melon?
Honeydew melon is another variety of muskmelon that is not detrimental to dogs. Rich in many nutrients, honeydew melon can be a good snack for dogs, especially in summer.
Can dogs eat watermelon?
Watermelon is 92% water which makes it an exceptional source of hydration. It contains dietary fiber and nutrients valuable to a dog’s health. Before serving, remove the seeds to eliminate the risk of a choking hazard. You should also get rid of the rind as it can cause intestinal blockage in dogs.
Final words on can dogs eat muskmelons!
Muskmelon is a treat full of nutritional value for dogs. As long as the rule of moderation is followed, muskmelons can be an affordable superfood option for pooches. When buying muskmelons, pick the ones that have a strong musky scent, a firm rind, and don’t sound hollow upon tapping. A detached stem is another sign of ripe melon. If they satisfy the above conditions, you can pick them up for your furry companion to munch on.
