Can Dogs Eat Bananas?

Yes, bananas are a fruit you can share

Bananas aren't toxic and contain potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, so they're a fruit dogs can eat. They're soft, which makes them great for senior dogs with weak teeth, and many owners use them to hide pills at medication time.

Things to watch out for

• High in sugar — at about 90 kcal per 100 g, bananas are on the higher end for fruit. They're not recommended for overweight or diabetic dogs
• Don't give the peel — it isn't toxic, but it's tough and hard to digest, and can cause vomiting or intestinal blockage
• It cuts both ways with digestion — a moderate amount helps with bowel movements, but overfeeding can actually cause constipation or loose stools

How much is the right amount

Following the principle that treats should stay within 10% of a dog's daily calorie needs, a small dog (around 5 kg) can have 2–3 slices a day (less than 1/4 of a banana), a medium dog about 1/2 a banana, and even a large dog shouldn't go over 1 whole banana. If you're curious about your dog's daily calorie needs, check the dog food portion calculator — 10% of the value it gives you is your treat budget.

The best ways to serve it

Cutting it into bite-sized pieces, or mashing it and mixing a little into their food, both work well. In summer you can freeze it for a cool treat, but a whole frozen banana is hard, so cut it up for small dogs. If it's your dog's first time, start with a small amount and keep an eye on their stool for about a day to be safe.