Can dogs eat sapodilla? The sapodilla, also known as chikoo or sapota, is an exotic fruit uncommon to the US. But perhaps you’ve stumbled across one and are wondering if you could share some with your pooch. Humans can eat sapodilla, so is it safe for dogs?
The short answer is yes, sapodilla is safe for dogs to eat with proper preparation. Often, sapodilla is confused for mamey, a fruit that looks more like coconut and is toxic for dogs.
Getting straight answers with this confusion can be tricky, but consulting your veterinarian should be your go-to for the facts. Here is what you should know about how sapodilla should be safe for our dogs to consume.
How Is Sapodilla Good For Dogs?
The ripened pulp of the sapodilla is rich in dietary fiber and vitamins C and A, and it even boasts anti-inflammatory properties. While it doesn’t pack the nutrient punch of other exotic fruits, such as papaya, dragon fruit, or even pineapple, the rich fiber content is worth considering.
Significant levels of dietary fiber aid our dogs’ digestive process, but only when consumed in moderation. Too much fiber can have an adverse effect, causing stomach upset and diarrhea.
But, with proper balance, fiber-rich foods do lend a hand to canine gut health, which is highly important.
Furthermore, sapodilla has a sweet flavor and satisfying texture that dogs seem to find appealing. That melon-like texture gives your dog something meaty to really sink their teeth into. Sometimes dogs prefer this to softer, more juicy fruits.
How Can I Safely Give Sapodilla To My Dog?
Some parts of the sapodilla have toxic properties, so proper preparation by you is a must. Under no circumstances should your pup be left to their own devices with this fruit. Furthermore, you’ll need to ensure that the sapodilla is ripe for consumption.
While most seeded fruits contain cyanide in their seeds, sapodilla seeds contain toxic saponins. This compound can be found in the large center seed, the smaller seeds, leaves, and stems of the sapodilla. For safe consumption, all must be thoroughly removed.
If you’d prefer to serve your dog an exotic fruit with less preparation and more research done in the realm of safety for dogs, dragon fruit and papaya are wonderful options.
To try out the sapodilla, make sure you give it a good squeeze to ensure ripeness. It will give a bit under the pressure, much like an avocado, when ripe. From there, simply peel the skin, scoop out the seeds, and cut the fleshy inner fruit into small chunks.
Offer just a few small bits to your dog, at first. Let them taste it and decide if they like it. Then, keep an eye on them for a couple of hours and observe for allergic reactions. This is a great process to repeat every time you introduce your beloved companion to a new food.
Is sapodilla something you’ve tried with your dog? Did your pooch enjoy the flavor? Let us know in the comments below.
