Yes, dogs can eat peaches. They can be extremely beneficial to your dog's health, but like other fruits and veggies, there are some precautions to be taken prior to feeding.
Benefits of Peaches
Peaches are rich in vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to your dog's health. They are high in fiber and include vitamins A and C. They are also low in calories. They can help prevent cancer and enhance the immune system since they are high in antioxidants.
They also aid in the improvement of liver and renal functioning. Peaches are nutritious snacks that can even be utilized as a refreshing treat after training sessions, if prepared appropriately and in moderation.
What to Avoid
Do not give your dog canned or preserved peaches. They are heavy in sugar and often include preservatives or artificial sweeteners, which can cause major stomach problems in your dog.
Pesticides are used to treat the majority of commercial fruit, which can be harmful. Before your dog (or you) eats peaches, make sure they're rinsed and cleaned thoroughly.
The peach pit, or stone as it's also known, poses the greatest threat to your dog. Amygdalin, a sugar-cyanide chemical found in peach stones, can be fatal if ingested. Although most dogs would have to eat numerous peach pits to be affected, every dog is different and some could be affected by just one. The pit can also get stuck in your dog's throat if they try to eat it whole. The pit of a peach, as anyone who has ever pitted one knows, has a rough, serrated surface that can be abrasive and result in damage to the small intestine.
Feeding dogs peach jam is not recommended. Sugar content in processed jams is typically high, which can cause stomach discomfort. Over time, too much sugar can lead to diabetes, obesity, and tooth decay in your pet. Furthermore, some jams contain artificial sweeteners such as xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
How to Prepare Peaches for Your Dog
Before giving your dog any type of human food, always consult your veterinarian. Some dogs have medical ailments that peaches or other foods may aggravate, so check with your veterinarian before feeding them to your dog. They'll also be able to tell you how many peaches you should feed your dog in each serving.
Once you've received the go-ahead from your veterinarian, make sure to choose and prepare fresh peaches that are free of mold and rot. They should be properly washed, chopped into bite-size pieces, with pits taken out, and any remaining stems or leaves removed. You can use the fruit as a motivational treat while training, mix it with other foods for a pleasant surprise, or incorporate it with other healthy fruits in a fruit salad or smoothie.
Making peach dog biscuits is another option. One peach should be boiled for about a minute and then cooled in an ice bath. Blend until smooth after removing the pit and skin. Add 1/4 cup peach puree, 1 cup whole wheat flour, a pinch of cinnamon, and a teaspoon of honey. Form a dough by kneading it, then rolling it out and cutting it into shapes. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 20 minutes.
Start Slow
If your dog has any type of medical condition, it's critical to discuss any dietary changes with your veterinarian. Even if your dog doesn't have any medical problems, start with a small amount of peaches to ensure that no stomach discomfort occurs. If everything appears to be in order, you can raise the amount, but keep in mind even healthy treats should not go over the 10 percent caloric intake guideline.
