Cantaloupe is great for a sweet treat or use in a smoothie. So can Pugs eat cantaloupe and is it okay to give them a small amount? In this article, we’ll look at what cantaloupe is and whether or not you should be sharing it with your four legged friend.
Can Pugs Eat Cantaloupe?
Both cantaloupe and melons are high in water, which makes them a great treat that can help your dog avoid dehydration. Cantaloupe also contains many vitamins and minerals that have several benefits for canine health.
Cantaloupe seeds are nontoxic, unlike the seeds in peaches, plums, cherries and etc, so you won’t have to worry if your dog swallows them.
Always consult with your veterinarian before feeding your dog any types of fruits and vegetables or making any changes to their diet.
What Is Cantaloupe?
Cantaloupes are known as rock melons, sweet melons and muskmelons, and they were first discovered in Asia. They are a member of the Cucurbitaceae Melos family, and are famous for their sweet, sticky insides.
Melon seeds are planted in the spring and are ripe by the end of summer or early fall. Americans consume about 27 pounds every year, and the United States is the world’s leading consumers of melons.
There are 13 different types of melons and they consist of:
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Armenian cucumber
- Galia melon
- Canary melon
- Winter melon
- Snap melon
- Honeydew melon
- Santa Clause melon
- Casaba melon
- Honey Globe melon
- Gac Melon
- Crenshaw Melon
Unfortunately, I am not sure if all types of melons are safe for Pugs to eat.
Cantaloupes Contain Micronutrients
Cantaloupe contains many micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) that make a healthy fruit for humans.
The fiber in cantaloupe consists of both insoluble and soluble fibers. Cantaloupe contains a healthy source of vitamin C and powerful antioxidants that protect human’s cells from damage.
But is it really beneficial for dogs?
Vitamin C
A medium melon contains about 202 milligrams, which makes it extremely beneficial for your four-legged friend. According to AKC, Vitamin C is great for reducing inflammation in your dog’s bones and joints, as well as other health benefits.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble that can aid your dog in skin health, vision, and reach their full growth potential. Your pup will get a healthy dose of Vitamin A with just a few bites. One cup of cantaloupe contains 3,580 micrograms of beta carotene, similar to carrots, butter squash, and etc.
Beta carotene also plays a huge role in the prevention of canine cancers and aids in reproductive health.
Nutritional Facts
- Protein: 1.5 grams
- Calories: 60
- Carbohydrates: 14.4 grams
- Sugars: 14 grams
- Fat: 0.3 grams
- Fiber: 1.6 grams
- Sodium: 28 milligrams
Is Cantaloupe Safe For Pugs?
As long as they are fed in moderation and your dog doesn’t have any health issues such as diabetes, overweight problems, or food allergies.
Giving your dog a small amount won’t turn your dog into a diabetic dog. While it’s true that cantaloupe contains sugar that can cause hyperglycemia in your dog. A dog’s blood sugar will naturally increase after every meal they eat.
This is completely normal, especially, after your dog eats and if they consume foods with high sugar levels. This article by Wag will explain in complete detail what canine high blood sugar is and when to seek treatment.
Digestive Problems Can Be Common
Your dog will likely enjoy eating cantaloupe and other types of melons, however, digestive issues can still present problems. Most Pugs will be fine eating cantaloupe, However, if your Pug has diabetes or sensitive stomach issues, you may want to skip this snack.
Whenever feeding your Pug human foods, it’s important to monitor them to see how they react, as cantaloupe can cause GI upset. If your furbaby experiences any of the following symptoms after consuming a cantaloupe, stop feeding them and call your veterinarian.
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Vomiting
Can Pugs Eat The Skin And Seeds?
While the seeds are not toxic, you should avoid feeding your dog the skin and the seeds. The rinds are tough will be hard to chew and digest, which can be a choking hazard, Not only that, but the rind may have been exposed to pesticides, during the growth stage.
Can Pugs Eat Honeydew Melon?
Honeydew is another refreshing summer fruit that is a great source of dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin C that is nontoxic for canines. Just remember to remove the rind and the seeds before feeding them.
Honeydew, watermelon, or cantaloupe is one fo the sweetest ways for your pooch to cool down after a long day in the sun!
How Can I Feed My Pug Cantaloupe?
Shop for a fresh organic cantaloupe from your supermarket, or grow your own. Organic fruits and veggies will be less likely to have harmful pesticides that can harm your pup.
Always wash and scrub any fruits and veggies before sharing with your pooch. Slice the melon into bite-size wedges and completely and remove the seeds.
You can put some small pieces in a dog bowl or hand feed them a small amount. If your dog shows no interest in eating it, don’t force them. I have no doubt your dog will eat this tasty fruit and beg you for more.
How Much Can You Feed Them?
Cantaloupe should only be fed as a special treat. I recommend giving it to your pooch on their birthday, special holiday, after they come back from the vet. As pet parents, we can always make up special holidays for our furbaby.
The most important thing to remember is your dog’s treats should never consume more than 10% of your dog’s regular dog food. Always keep this in mind when feeding your dog cantaloupe or other treats.
Alternatives To Cantaloupe For Pugs
If your pup enjoys eating human fruits and vegetables, then you may want to consider feeding them some of these other pet healthy fruits and veggies.
- Strawberries
- Honeydew
- Bananas
References And Further Reading
Vet Street – Dr. Marty Becker DVM – Is It Ok to Feed Our Pets Cantaloupe
Conclusion
Cantaloupe and melons can be much healthier than some regular dog treats. As long as your Pug enjoys eating it, there’s nothing wrong with sharing a small amount with your pooch.
Just make sure you’re not making it a regular part of their daily diet!