Can Dogs Eat Pears?

Pears are packed with Vitamins A and C, and soluble fiber, so it’s quite safe for you to give your dog a slice or two of properly prepared pear on occasion.

Can Dogs Have Pears?

The short answer to the question “Is it safe for my dog to eat pears” is yes, but it must be given to your dog in moderation. Pears are certainly a delicious low-calorie snack for both humans and dogs, and when prepared properly and given in moderation, they do make a very healthy and delicious treat for your pet.

While your dog may love eating pear as much as you do, be aware that giving your pet too much pear, and the wrong parts of the pear, could have nasty side effects for your dog.

As always, we suggest speaking to your veterinarian prior to giving your pet any new food, just to ensure there’s no risk to your pet’s health.

How Should I Prepare Pear For My Dog?

Simply follow these easy tips on the right way to prepare pear as a treat for your dog –

• Select the ripest pears to enjoy with your dog.
• Remove the stalk and leaves.
• Remove dirt and chemicals by giving the pear a good wash.
• Slice the pear down the middle, then cut one half into two pieces.
• Remove ALL seeds.
• Ensure there is no core remaining.
• Cut each pear piece into 1-inch slices (1-slice for small dogs, 2-slices for larger dogs); alternatively, you can make the treat last longer by cutting a slice into 1-inch chunks.
• These pear treats can be used as a topper on your dog’s next meal.
• The remainder of the pear can be frozen, ready for the next occasion.
• Pear can be given to your pet fresh or frozen.

What Are The Risks Of Giving Pear To My Dog?

When prepared correctly, pears can safely be given to you dog as a treat or reward; however, there are some important points to be aware of when sharing this delicious fruit with your pet.

• Only ripe pears should be given to your pet; green fruit can cause an upset stomach.
• ALL seeds must be removed from the pear. The seeds of the pear contain traces of cyanide, which, when served in large amounts, are toxic to your dog.
• Do NOT give your dog a whole pear. They become a choking hazard to your pet.
• Pears must always be cut up. Whole fruit can cause obstructions in the bowel.
• Stalks and leaves must always be removed from the pear. Their rigid texture could tear the lining of your dog’s esophagus.
• Don’t feed pear to your dog on a regular basis. Pears contain around 9.7 grams total sugar which is damaging to their teeth, can cause an upset stomach, and contribute to weight gain.
• Canned and candied pears should never be given to dogs. The syrup contains high quantities of sugar.
• Spoiled, moldy, or rotting pears can cause stomach upset and diarrhea.
• Fermented pears convert into alcohol. Do not give fermented pears to your dog to eat.

Pears: The Nutritional Facts

Now for the good news! Pears fed in moderation are very good for your dog’s health. They’re packed with good vitamins, amino acids, minerals, antioxidants, and lycopene, and they contain large amounts of water. And, like other fruits, pears contain a natural sugar known as fructose. Small amounts of fructose are not harmful to your pet.

Note that treats like a slice of pear should constitute no more than 10% of your pet’s daily nutrition

Can I Give My Dog Canned Pears?

No, you should not give your dog canned pears, or any other type of canned fruit. They can be extremely high in sugar, so avoid them at all costs. Not only does sugar create tummy troubles for your dog, it also leads to weight gain and canine obesity. Plus, there are other ingredients in canned pears your dog shouldn’t have. Just stick with fresh or frozen pear pieces or slices.

How Much Pear Can My Dog Have?

Many veterinarians recommend that pear and other treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

We suggest a safe serving size once or twice a week. Just make sure you follow all the above tips regarding washing, seeds, the core, etc. and there’s no reason why you and your loved fur baby can’t enjoy delicious pear together.

You might also like to try freezing pear pieces with other dog-safe fruits like raspberries, cantaloupe, and mango, in some homemade ice blocks as a special treat for your dog on hot summer days.

Other dog owners say their pets love pear pieces mixed with chopped celery and cucumber – a tasty party treat!

Remember to introduce any new food, including pears, to your dog very slowly just in case it gives your pet an upset stomach.

Do dogs even like pears?

It’s been proven that some definitely do! (source). My American Bully loves fruit but of course we minimalize is intake.