Can Dogs Eat Pineapple? Safe Pieces and Limits

Pineapple contains vitamins and some fiber, but it also has natural sugar and acid. Some dogs have no problem with it, while others get an upset stomach. It is an occasional treat, not a supplement.

Remove the spiky skin and crown, and cut away the hard core. Cut the soft flesh into small cubes. The skin and core are tough, can be hard to digest, and may cause a blockage.

• Remove skin and crown.
• Cut away the core.
• Dice the flesh.
• Start with one or two pieces.

A few small cubes for a large dog and one for a small dog is enough. Extras like this should stay a small part of the day's food. A common vet guideline is that treats and extras make up no more than about 10 percent of daily calories.

Canned pineapple in heavy syrup is very sugary, and pineapple desserts and drinks may contain sugar, alcohol or xylitol. Skip them.

Note: This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Dogs differ by size, age and health, so ask your veterinarian if your dog has a medical condition, is a puppy, or is on a special diet.

Pineapple is acidic and sugary. Some dogs have no problem with a cube, while others get loose stools or vomiting. Start with a single piece, and if there is any upset, do not offer it again. Dogs with diabetes, pancreatitis or a sensitive digestive system should skip it unless their vet agrees.

Fresh pineapple is the best option. Canned pineapple in syrup is mostly sugar and not a good idea. Dried pineapple is concentrated and sticky, and often has added sugar. Pineapple juice is sugary and acidic, so water is a better drink.

Cubes of fresh pineapple can be chilled or frozen. Keep the pieces small, and remove the core and skin.

• Chilled small cubes.
• Frozen cubes as a summer treat.
• A little crushed fresh pineapple on a lick mat.
• Never give the crown or skin.

Toy dogs can have one or two tiny cubes, and large dogs a few small chunks. Pineapple is acidic as well as sweet, so even a modest serving can bother a sensitive stomach. Start with one piece and wait a day.

Chop it small, and take care with frozen chunks, which can be too hard for small mouths.

Owners often give the core or the skin, which are tough and hard to digest. Another mistake is canned pineapple in syrup, which is heavy in sugar. A third is sharing pineapple pizza or sweet and sour dishes, which contain cheese, onion, garlic, sauces and salt.

If your dog swallows a piece of core or skin, watch for vomiting, loss of appetite and belly pain, and call your vet if they appear.

Puppies can have a little, but acidic fruit can upset a young stomach. Senior dogs with sensitive digestion may do better without it. Dogs with diabetes or a history of pancreatitis should avoid it unless their vet agrees.

If your dog has any ongoing health problem, ask before adding new foods.

Pineapple, mango and papaya are sweet tropical fruits that dogs can sometimes enjoy in small amounts. They share a few issues: tough skins, hard cores or pits, and plenty of sugar. Always remove the skin, core, pit and seeds, and cut the flesh small.

Dried and canned versions are usually sweeter, with added sugar, and are best avoided. If your dog has diabetes, pancreatitis or a weight problem, ask your vet before offering any sugary fruit. As with any new food, offer a small piece and wait a day before offering more.