Can Dogs Eat Dates?

 

Estimated Read Time: 2 minutes 

Summary: If you’re curious about whether dates are bad or good for dogs, or whether dogs should even have dates in the first place, learn more in this blog... 

 

Can Dogs Eat Dates? 

Unlike grapes or raisins which dates can be compared to; dates aren’t highly toxic to dogs. However, dried dates – which are the most accessible style of dates – are very high in sugar and calories which could be a concern for a canine. Fresh dates, with the stone removed, are the most suitable date to offer your pup, but only in very small amounts and as a treat.  

Dogs with diabetes should not be offered dates because of their high sugar content.  

PetLab Co. Pro Tip: Make sure you don’t confuse dates with large raisins, the latter is incredibly toxic to dogs and can lead to renal failure! 

Dates For Dogs 

The sugar in dates isn't ideal for a dog. Too much sugar can lead to dental issues, diabetes and obesity which can all be very detrimental to a dog’s health.  

However, dates are also loaded with fibre, health-promoting antioxidants and immune-boosting vitamins and minerals like magnesium, manganese, copper and vitamin B6 – all of which can contribute enormously to a dog’s health.  

If you want to offer your dog dates, you must not feed them more than two dates a week and much less if they’re a small breed. Make sure the pip is removed (as these pose a choking hazard) and cut the date into bitesize pieces.  

You should always take it slowly when introducing any new food to your dog too, to avoid upsetting their stomach. Try them with a nibble of date before considering continuing to feed very low quantities of them to your dog more regularly. As with humans, all dogs will react differently to different foods so always be mindful of this when trying them on new foods, snacks, and treats regardless of whether they’re deemed safe.  

Sources

Author Johnstone, Gemma “Can Dogs Eat Dates?” American Kennel Club, Oct 24. 2022 https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-dates/