Can dogs eat Bananas?

September 27, 2022
by Dr. Evelyn Kass, DVM
animal veterinarian with over 30 years experience in all aspects of veterinary medicine
Are Bananas safe for dogs rating

Yes, dogs can eat bananas. Bananas can be a healthy snack for your dog since they contain many key vitamins and minerals. As with most fruit, bananas are high in sugar, so be sure to feed in moderation.

Please note that before introducing any new food into your dog's diet, you should consult your veterinarian.

Are Bananas Good for Dogs?

Bananas are a great snack for your pet because they contain beneficial nutrients like potassium and magnesium, and they are high in Vitamins C and B6. Even though all parts of a banana are non-toxic for dogs, it's recommended that you remove the peel before sharing with your furry friend. It's also recommended to feed in moderation since bananas, as with most fruit, are high in sugar. See our feeding chart below for recommended quantities of banana by dog weight.

Health Benefits of Bananas for Dogs

  • High potassium essential for kidney, heart, muscle, and digestive health
  • High in vitamin C for immune system support
  • High fiber content to support digestion
  • Vitamin B6 helps build proteins, regulate hormones, support neurotransmitters, and regulate fluid balance in your dog
  • Magnesium essential for the function of the nervous system, muscles, bones, blood sugar, heart health, and DNA
Feeding Dog Bananas
Man feeding bananas to dog

How to Feed Bananas to your dog

Bananas are a great treat that you can give to your dog every day. However, make sure to peel the banana first and limit how much you feed your pet.

How Many Bananas Can I feed My Dog?

If you're feeding bananas to your dog as a treat, remember that treats should only account for 10% of your dog's caloric intake. While dogs can eat bananas every day, use our feeding chart to limit how much you share with your pup.

Dog Size
Feeding Guide (Max Allowed)
Small Dogs
0.1 Bananas per Day
Medium Dogs
0.4 Bananas per Day
Large Dogs
0.7 Bananas per Day
Extra Large Dogs
1.0 Bananas per Day

There Are Several Ways to Feed Your Dog Bananas Safely

After peeling the banana, you can feed your dog bananas in many different ways:

  • Feed directly to your dog
  • As a frozen treat
  • Mashed up as a topper for dry dog food
Sad dog on couch

What to do if Your Dog Ate Bananas:

Don't worry if your dog ate a banana. No part of a banana is toxic for dogs. Just to be safe, monitor your dog's behavior and if you notice your dog is experiencing any of the symptoms listed below he or she might be having a bad reaction and you should consult a veterinarian immediately.

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Symptoms of an allergic reaction:

  • Itchiness
  • Hives
  • Swelling of the face, ears, lips, eyelids, or earflaps
  • Red, inflamed skin
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Sneezing
  • Itchy ears
  • Chronic ear infections
  • Itchy, runny eyes
  • Constant licking

Symptoms of poisoning:

Bananas are not poisonous for dogs, but if your dog experiences any of the following symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea can occur within hours of consuming a poisonous substance. Vomit and feces may contain pieces of the substance.
  • Lethargy and weakness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dehydration
  • Limited urination or no urination
  • Bad breath
  • Tremors and seizures
  • Coma
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