Many experts have been touting the idea of a raw, whole-food diet for dogs because it is so much healthier. Basically, the idea is that if it is healthy for us to eat this type of diet, chances are it is also okay for dogs as well, as long as it is given in moderation. If you are leaning towards a whole-food diet, you may be wondering if dogs can eat avocado or if it may be bad for their health.
Avocados are a delicious fruit that is becoming more popular and is OK for dogs to eat. In fact, avocados are actually good for dogs and there are many health benefits that go along with giving some to your dog as a treat. However, you should not give your dogs avocado pits.
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Health Benefits of Avocado For Dogs
As long as you are only giving it to your dog in moderation (as you should with any treat), avocado is a healthy treat. However, you should research giving avocados to other animals because they contain persin which may be poisonous. For example, horses and cattle should not eat avocado.
Avocados contain many nutrients that both humans and dogs need in order to be strong and healthy. In fact, avocados are so nutrient rich that they are in the super foods category. Avocados are rich in the following nutrients:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Copper
- Folate
- Pantothenic Acid
- Potassium (even more than bananas)
Avocados are rich in omega fatty acids which helps keep your dog’s coat nice and shiny. In addition, vitamin E helps keep your dog’s skin healthy. In combination,  avocados are a great way to make sure your dog has healthy skin and a shiny coat. Other health benefits of giving your dog avocado include:
- Vision health — Vitamin A in avocados can help improve eyesight, making it great for older dogs that have deteriorating vision
- Heart health — Avocados may be fatty, but they are rich in healthy fat. The monounsaturated fat in avocados can help lower bad cholesterol in humans and dogs
Negative Side Effects of Avocado For Dogs
While avocado is a healthy treat for dogs, it should only be given to them, in moderation, if they don’t have sensitive stomachs. Some of the negative side effects of avocado for dogs include:
- Mild stomach upsets
- Intestinal obstruction
Make sure that you never give your dog avocado pits, as they contain cyanide, which is poisonous. It can also cause blockage in the intestines, and it is a choking hazard.
Yes, Dogs Can Have Avocados in Moderation
As long as you aren’t feeding your dogs a steady diet of avocado, there is no reason why you can’t give them some as a treat now and again. Avocado is loaded with nutrients your dogs need to be healthy. However, too much avocado can lead to pancreatitis (due to the high fat content) so you should only give avocados to your dogs in moderation.