Can Dogs Eat Avocado?

Avocado is widely regarded as one of the healthiest foods out there. Though it is high in fat content, it is all healthy fat that provides numerous health benefits. Unfortunately, not all of the foods that are healthy for humans are healthy for dogs. In fact, some of them are downright toxic!

If you’re wondering whether you can feed your do avocado, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to learn whether dogs can eat avocado and, if they can, the best way to feed it.

Related: Can Dogs Eat Peas?

Is Avocado Safe for Dogs to Eat?

Avocado is technically a fruit and it is rich in over 20 vitamins and minerals. A 3.5-ounce serving contains about 160 calories with 2 grams of protein and 15 grams of healthy fats. Included in its nutrient profile are vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, folate, and B vitamins. There is also a great deal of fiber in avocado which counteracts the carbohydrate content to give you 2 grams net carbs per serving.

Though avocado is loaded with healthy nutrients for humans, it is not so healthy for dogs. One of the primary concerns is the pit – if your dog swallows it, he could choke or develop an intestinal blockage. The peel is also not safe for dogs to eat, though the flesh itself may be in limited amounts. The high fat content of avocado could be a problem if you feed it frequently because it can lead to unhealthy weight gain and may also trigger pancreatitis. Avocado also contains a toxin called persin which can cause gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting.

Related: Can Dogs Eat Bananas?

Tips for Feeding Your Dog Avocado

If you want to feed your dog avocado, you certainly can do so but you should be careful about how and how much you feed him. Again, never feed your dog the avocado pit because it could cause an intestinal blockage and don’t feed him the peel because it has the highest concentration of persin. The best way to feed your dog avocado is to cut it in half then remove the pit and peel. Slice or dice the avocado flesh and offer your dog a small amount.

The first time you feed your dog avocado, you should only give him a bite or two and then wait to make sure he doesn’t have a negative reaction. Some dogs may develop intestinal upset due to the high fat and fiber content of the avocado, so you may not notice this reaction immediately. You may want to wait another day or two before trying again, just to be safe. You can also try freezing slices of avocado to feed as a refreshing summer treat.

Though avocado is safe in small amounts, you should be wary of feeding your dog too much at once. If he accidentally eats a large amount of avocado, call your veterinarian to be safe. If you suspect that your dog has swallowed the pit, call your vet immediately before a serious problem develops.