Avocados are a fruit that originated in Mexico and Central America. They are large berries that grow on a tree and are known for their green flesh and large seed in the centre.

It is a nutrient-rich superfood that has gained popularity recently due to its health benefits. It is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that can help improve your overall health.

Avocados do contain carotenoids, and thanks to their fat content, you can get good absorption of the carotenoids that they contain. However, if you happen to be consuming an avocado-free meal or snack that contains very little fat yet rich amounts of carotenoids, some added avocados might go a long way in improving your carotenoid absorption and vitamin A nourishment.

Many people think eating avocado is fattening due to its high-calorie content. However, avocados contain only healthy fats. It offers an adequate amount of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) to the body.

It naturally contains nearly 20 vitamins and minerals. Adding avocado to fruits and vegetables can greatly benefit us. Avocados are also a good source of potassium, which is important for heart health and blood pressure regulation.

Avocados are touted as a nutritious and delicious snack for humans, but can dogs eat avocado? The answer is yes and no. Avocados contain persin, a fungicidal toxin that can cause serious health problems— even death—in many animals. 

In this article, we will answer your questions about dogs and avocados, why you should or shouldn’t feed them to your dogs, the nutritional value of avocados and how best to feed your dog avocado.

Nutritional value of Avocados 

Avocados are a nutrient-dense food that is rich in healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. They are a great addition to any diet and can provide numerous health benefits. In this article, we will discuss the nutritional value of avocados and how they can benefit your health.

1. Healthy Fats: Avocado is virtually the only fruit that contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. The primary type of monounsaturated fat in avocados is oleic acid, the main fatty acid in olive oil. These fats are important for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease. 

Monounsaturated fats can help increase levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, while reducing levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Per one-third of a medium avocado (50 grams), avocados contribute 6 grams of unsaturated fats, which are known to be essential for normal growth and development of the central nervous system and brain.

2. Fiber: Avocados are high in fiber, containing approximately 6–7 g per half fruit. Eating foods with natural fiber can help lower the risk of colon cancer. Fiber helps to absorb water and provide bulk to stool, helping to keep your dog’s bowels regular and their stools formed and firm. It can also promote good gut health by keeping the intestinal oxygen levels unsuitable for bad bacteria, preventing their growth and colonization.

If a food has too little fibre, the dog may have loose stools, because there is nothing to help the stools form. If a portion of food has too much fibre, it will pass much more quickly through the gastrointestinal system, making digestion less efficient and the stools hard and compacted.

3. Vitamins: Avocados are a good source of several vitamins, including vitamins C, E, K, and B6. Vitamin C is important for immune function and skin health. Vitamin E is important for skin health and may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Vitamin K is important for bone health and blood clotting. Vitamin B6 is important for brain function and the production of red blood cells.

4. Minerals: Avocados are also a good source of several minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and manganese. Dogs need minerals to stay healthy and robust. Manganese is important for brain function and the metabolism of carbohydrates.

5. Antioxidants: This fruit contains vitamins and antioxidants that can help boost your dog’s immune system and optimal health. However, too much ingestion of avocados in dogs can lead to poisoning due to the toxin called persin.

6. Weight Management:  One study showed that people who ate avocado with their lunch felt more satisfied and had less desire to eat for several hours afterwards. The combination of healthy fats, fiber, and other nutrients in avocados can help promote satiety and prevent overeating. Including avocados in your meals can help you feel satisfied and reduce the likelihood of snacking on unhealthy foods.

7. Blood Sugar Control: A recent study published in Nutrition Journal evaluated the effects of adding half an avocado to the standard lunch of healthy, overweight people. They discovered that avocados do not significantly impact blood sugar levels.

8. Eye Health:  Avocados may contribute to eye health since they contain a combination of Monounsaturated Fatty acids and lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect the eyes against light damage like ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. They also reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases, like cataracts. 

Can Dogs Eat avocados?

This is a bit of a tricky question, Dogs are a beloved pet for many people around the world, and as such, their health and well-being is a top priority for their owners.

First a note about persin. Avocado trees contain a fungicidal toxin called persin. This toxin is more concentrated in the leaves, pit and skin of an avocado, but there are low levels contained in the flesh as well. Depending on which parts and how much is consumed, avocados can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea and myocardial damage.

Avocado pulp is not toxic to dogs, and there are some health benefits to eating the flesh of an avocado—including vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants. However, avocados are also high in fat, which can cause pancreatitis.

One of the primary concerns with feeding avocados to dogs is the high-fat content of the fruit. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, which can be beneficial for humans, but can be difficult for dogs to digest.

Even if you know your dog only tries to eat the avocado flesh, you should still limit the amount of avocado your dog gets. Too much avocado can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs (and people) – vomiting, diarrhea, or sometimes both.

Despite these risks, there are also some potential benefits to feeding avocados to dogs. Avocados are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and E. They are also high in fibre, which can be beneficial for dogs with digestive issues or weight problems.

If you are considering feeding avocados to your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it is important to only feed your dog ripe avocados, as unripe avocados can be difficult to digest and may contain higher levels of persin. You should also avoid feeding your dog the pit or skin of the avocado, as these parts of the fruit can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages.

It is also important to introduce avocados to your dog’s diet slowly and in small amounts. This will allow you to monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset or other health issues. If your dog experiences any adverse reactions to avocado, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing, you should discontinue feeding them the fruit and contact your veterinarian.

Risk Of Avocados For Dogs

While avocados can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet in moderation, there are some risks associated with feeding them to your furry friend. Some of the risks of feeding avocados to dogs include:

1. Gastrointestinal upset: Most dogs with gastroenteritis will have intermittent episodes of vomiting and diarrhea. The vomit may contain foamy, yellowish bile, especially after emptying the stomach. Many owners observe dry heaving or gagging after their dog eats or drinks.

Avocado flesh’s high fat content can lead to gastrointestinal upset and pancreatitis in dogs if they eat too much. 

2. Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis in dogs is one of those conditions that owners must be informed about before it strikes because the warning signs may not always be obvious at first, the symptoms might be mistaken for something less serious, and yet it’s potentially life-threatening. Avocados are high in fat, which can increase the risk of pancreatitis in dogs. 

3. Choking hazard: Avocado pits are too large for dogs to eat and present a serious choking hazard. When it comes to avocados, the biggest danger is the pit. Not only are avocado pits full of persin, they are also a choking hazard. If you suspect your dog has swallowed an avocado pit, call your vet immediately.

4. Allergic reactions: Some dogs may be allergic to avocados, which can cause symptoms such as itching, hives, and swelling.

5. Cardiac issues: Avocado leaves, bark, and seeds contain a substance called persin, which can be toxic to dogs in large amounts. This can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, heart failure, and death.

Ripe avocados are safe for dogs to eat, but unripe avocados, as well as the pit and skin of the fruit, should be avoided. Additionally, if your dog has a history of pancreatitis or other digestive issues, it may be best to avoid feeding them avocados altogether.

How to Safely Feed Avocados To Your Dogs

While avocados can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet in moderation, it is important to feed them in the right way to avoid any potential health risks. Here are some tips on how to safely feed avocados to your dog:

1. Feed ripe avocados: Ripe avocados are safe for dogs to eat, but unripe avocados can cause digestive upset. However, Feeding your dog too much of the fruit will result in gastric problems such as constipation and diarrhea. Make sure the avocado is soft and ripe before feeding it to your dog.

2. Remove the pit and skin: The pit and skin of an avocado can be a choking hazard for dogs and can also cause an intestinal blockage if ingested. Make sure to remove the pit and skin before feeding the avocado to your dog.

3. Feed in moderation:  Avocado can be safely fed to dogs in moderation. They are high in fat and calories, so it is important to feed them to your dog in moderation. Too much avocado can cause digestive upset and increase the risk of pancreatitis.

4. Mix with other foods: Avocado can be mixed with other foods to make a healthy and nutritious meal for your dog. You can mix it with cooked chicken or rice to make a tasty and healthy meal.

5. Monitor for any signs of digestive upset: While avocados are generally safe for dogs to eat, some dogs may be allergic to them or may have a sensitive stomach. Monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain.

6. Consult with your veterinarian: If you have any concerns about feeding your dog avocados, it is best to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide you with guidance on how to safely feed avocados to your dog and can also recommend other healthy foods to add to their diet.

In conclusion, avocados can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet in moderation, but it is important to feed them in the right way to avoid any potential health risks. Make sure to feed ripe avocados, remove the pit and skin, feed in moderation, mix with other foods, monitor for any signs of digestive upset, and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Alternative Health Foods For Dogs

1.Frozen Strawberry Banana Dog Treats

Ingredients

• 2 cups strawberries fresh or frozen (about 3/4 pound)
• 1 banana
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or regular yogurt, plain)
• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Prepare your silicone mold by laying it on a small baking sheet or something else that is stiff for easy transfer to the refrigerator.
2. Put all of the ingredients into a blender and blend until combined approximately 2 minutes.
3. Pour the mixture into the molds.
4. Transfer the treats to the freezer (approximately 30 minutes) until set.
5. Pop the dog treats out of the mold and store in the freezer in a container or bag.

2. Frozen Turmeric Coconut Dog Treats

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup coconut oil
• 1 Tablespoon ground turmeric

Instructions

1. Measure out your coconut oil either into a small cup/bowl or a larger measuring cup (such as a 1 cup measuring cup).
2. Microwave the coconut oil to melt it in 30 second intervals.
3. Prepare your silicone mold by laying it on a small baking sheet or something else that is stiff for easy transfer to the refrigerator.
4. Add the turmeric to the coconut oil and stir to combine. Pour the melted coconut oil into each mold, up to the top.
5. Transfer the treats to the refrigerator (approximately 1 hour) or freezer (approximately 30 minutes) until set.
6. Pop the dog treats out of the mold and store in the freezer in a container or bag. Storing frozen will ensure the oil does not melt at room temperature, which especially happens in warmer climates and months.

3. Homemade Frozen Dog Treats

Ingredients

• 2 13-ounce cans Lite Coconut Milk
• 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Strawberries
• 1 cup Fresh or Frozen Blueberries

Instructions

1. Because coconut milk tends to separate during storage, shake the cans before opening them or stir well after opening.
2. Divide the coconut milk into three equal parts in measuring cups or other containers to save for blending. Approximately 9 ounces each part.
3. For the strawberry treats, add 9 ounces of coconut milk and 1 cup of strawberries to a blender and blend well. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
4. For the blueberry treats, add 9 ounces of coconut milk and 1 cup of blueberries to a blender and blend well. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
5. For the coconut treats, pour the remaining coconut milk into silicone molds or ice cube trays.
6. Freeze for approximately 2 hours or until hard.
7. Remove the treats from the molds and place them in an airtight container or plastic freezer bag.
8. Store the treats in the freezer.

4. Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Author: MIRANDA COUSE

INGREDIENT

Dog Treats

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour
• ¾ cup water

Drizzle

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 ½ tablespoons coconut oil

Dog Treats

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add in the peanut butter and eggs. Beat with a hand mixer until combined.
3. Add in the whole wheat flour and water and beat until the dough forms a ball.
4. Dust your work surface with whole wheat flour.
5. Roll the dough out to a ¼-inch thickness.
6. Cut out with the cookie cutter and place an inch apart on the prepared cookie sheet. They won’t spread.
7. Press holes into the cookie using a fork or a skewer.
8. Bake for 18 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. This will depend on the size of your cookie cutter. Mine was 3 ¼-inch long.
9. Store in an airtight container. The cookies freeze well after being baked and will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Drizzle

1. In a small microwave-safe bowl, add in the peanut butter and coconut oil. Microwave for 30 seconds and stir to combine. It should be a runny consistency but be thick enough that it doesn’t thin out and not hold its shape.
2. Lay the dog bones out on wax paper.
3. Use a spoon or add the drizzle to the sandwich bag and cut a small hole in the corner, drizzle the glaze over top of each dog treat.

NOTES

Make sure the peanut butter does NOT contain artificial sweeteners such as xylitol. I prefer using natural creamy peanut butter.

Substitute the water for a (chicken, beef, turkey) broth to add more flavor.

5. Peanut Butter Carrot Dog Treats

Ingredients

• 1 cup (255g) natural creamy peanut butter
• 3/4 cup (180ml) skim milk
• 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce)
• 1 large carrot, shredded (or 8-ish baby carrot)– around 2/3 cup shredded
• 2 and 1/4 cups (290g) whole wheat flour* (spoon & leveled)
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder
• 1/3 cup (28g) oats (either whole-rolled or quick oats are fine)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, gently mix the peanut butter, milk, egg, and carrot together with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula. Add the flour and baking powder. You may need to turn the dough out onto a floured work surface and use your hands to work in the flour. Mix in the oats. The dough is extremely thick and heavy.
3. Using a floured rolling pin, roll the dough out into 1/4″ thickness. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters. Arrange on the baking sheets. Bake for 15 minutes, or until very lightly browned on the bottom. Remove from the oven, and flip the treats to bake the other side for 10 more minutes. Want the treats to be a little more crunchy? Bake for 5 more minutes.
4. Allow to cool completely before serving to your pup. Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Notes

1. Freezing Instructions: Since the pups can’t eat the whole batch in a week, I usually freeze them. Jude loves them right out of the freezer too! The treats freeze well for up to 2 months.
2. Flour: Unbleached all-purpose flour is safe for dogs, but whole wheat was more highly recommended by our vet because of its added health benefits. Again, please consult with your vet about any allergies your dog may have.

6. Healthy Dog Treats Recipe

Ingredients

• ½ cup warm water
• ¼ cup ground flax, for skin and coat health
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce, for dental health and breath (or sub pumpkin puree)
• 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter, for protein and healthy fats (smooth or chunky)
• 2 tablespoon dried parsley, for fresher breath
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon, for brain function
• 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour, for fiber, protein, and minerals (or sub oat flour)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 F (180C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or leave it dry (the treats shouldn’t stick).
2. In a small bowl or measuring glass mix the warm water and flax. Set aside for about 10 minutes to thicken.
3. In a large bowl add the thickened flax mixture, apple sauce, peanut butter, parsley, and cinnamon and mix well. Add the whole wheat flour and mix to make a stiff dry dough (it won’t come together just yet). Dump the dough and any remaining flour and bits from the bowl onto a clean work surface. Gather the dough and knead to incorporate all the flour. If your dough doesn’t come together and is too dry, sprinkle over 1 teaspoon of water at a time until the dough comes together into a stiff dough.
4. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out to about ½ inch (1.3 cm) thick. Cut the dough into treats. I used this bone-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the treats but you could use any cookie cutter, or just cut them into squares with a knife or pizza cutter. Gather any dough scraps, and reroll to make more treats.
5. Lay the treats out in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake for 45 mins – 60 mins until the treats are golden on the bottom and dry. Let cool before giving one to your pup. I like to let my treats cool on the baking sheet and sit out in the open overnight to dry even more and become more crunchy. Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or you can freeze them.

7. Homemade Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dog Treats

• 2½ cups whole wheat flour 300 grams (see note)
• 1 large egg 50 grams
• 1 cup peanut butter 270 grams (see note)
• 1 cup water 227 grams
• 2 tablespoons honey 43 grams (see note)

For the Frosting

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter 34 grams
• 1 tablespoon honey 21 grams
• ⅓ cup cornstarch 37 grams (can also use potato starch or arrowroot powder)
• 3-4 tablespoons hot water 43-57 grams

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and the egg. Add the peanut butter, water, and honey, and stir until you have a stiff dough. The dough becomes very firm and sticky. You may need to use your hands, or the paddle attachment on your mixer.
3. 2½ cups whole wheat flour,1 large egg,1 cup peanut butter,1 cup water,2 tablespoons honey
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough about ½-inch thick and use a cookie cutter to make fun shapes. The treats barely spread and rise, so get creative with your shapes.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until golden. Once done, set aside to cool. (If you have smaller cookies, use less time, otherwise the bottom might burn.)
6. To make the frosting, combine the peanut butter and honey in a microwavable bowl, and heat in the microwave in 15 second increments, stirring in between, until melted.
7. 2 tablespoons peanut butter,1 tablespoon honey
8. Add the melted peanut butter mixture to the cornstarch and stir until just combined.
9. ⅓ cup cornstarch
10. Slowly add in the water 1 tablespoon at a time until you have reached the consistency that you would like. For a thinner frosting, add more water.
11. 3-4 tablespoons hot water
12. Add the frosting to a piping bag and pipe designs on top of each dog treat.
13. Frost the treats with the peanut butter/honey mixture for an even more tempting cookie.

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Conclusion 

To sum up, can dogs eat avocados? The answer is yes, but in moderation. Avocado is a nutritious fruit that provides many health benefits for both humans and dogs. 

By following the guidelines in this article, you can safely incorporate avocados into your dog’s diet and provide them with a nutritious and tasty treat.