Dogs go bananas for human food. However, many foods consumed regularly by humans aren't good for dogs, and some are downright harmful. But can dogs eat bananas? Here's the lowdown on bananas for dogs and why you might want to consider giving your dog an occasional bite of this vitamin-rich fruit.

Golden retriever sitting near open fridge with fruits and vegetables in it

Banana Benefits

Bananas are packed with potassium and vitamin C, and they're also good sources of vitamin B6 as well as manganese, biotin, and copper, all of which benefit your dog's overall health. Bananas are also rich in magnesium, which may help your dog absorb other vitamins more efficiently and promote healthy bone growth, says the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Drawbacks of Bananas for Dogs

Bananas are also high in sugar, so they should only be given as an occasional special treat, not made a regular part of your dog's diet. And while the fiber content in bananas can be good for your dog in small amounts, if your dog eats too much this could actually cause constipation instead of helping to prevent it.

Say No to Banana Peels

While they aren't toxic to your dog, banana peels are hard to digest and could make your dog sick or cause intestinal blockage. So be sure to discard banana peels in a place where your dog can't get to them. The garbage disposal is likely the best place for banana peels, especially if your dog has a tendency to dig through the trash.

Banana Safety

What if your dog gets a hold of a banana and eats the whole thing, peel and all? You should call your veterinarian right away if you notice any signs of sickness or digestive issues. When first offering bananas as a treat, it is important to keep an eye out for any signs of stomach upset.   It is also important to monitor your pet for weight gain  because that is a sign that your pup may be receiving too many treats. Additionally, if your dog is diabetic or has issues with high blood sugar, it's probably best to keep him away from bananas altogether. Your vet will be able to give you the best information on whether or not bananas are okay to feed your dog as a special dog treat from time to time.

How to Give Your Dog Bananas

While some dogs love the taste of bananas and will eat chunks of one right out of your hand, others take some coaxing. You can try some of the following tactics to introduce bananas to your dog:

  • Try mashing it in their food
  • Mix a little bit of banana with peanut butter (Again, peanut butter is another food that should be consumed in moderation by dogs. It should never be used as a frequent snack or reward.)
  • Fill a food-dispensing toy with mashed banana and freeze it
  • Freeze a banana before peeling and slicing it, and give the frozen slices to your dog
  • Give him dog treats that have bananas as an ingredient to see if he likes the taste. Hill's has a great peanut butter and banana option to try.

Can dogs eat bananas? The short answer is yes — in moderation. While packed with nutrients, bananas are a sugary treat that should only be a small part of an overall nutritious dog diet. If you have any doubts about feeding your dog bananas, consult your vet about the best sources of nutrition for your pet.

Jean Marie Bauhaus Jean Marie Bauhaus

Jean Marie Bauhaus is a pet parent, pet blogger, and novelist from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she usually writes under the supervision of a lapful of fur babies.

Related articles

Facts About Kidney Disease in Dogs

Learn what kidney disease is in dogs and what can cause it. Learn the signs of kidney disease in canines as well as potential treatment options.

Running with Your Dog: 12 Tips For a Successful Race

If you're a runner and a dog parent, consider running a race with your dog! Learn how to get started, from training tips to finding dog-friendly races.

Finding A Lost Dog: What Should You Do?

Learn what to do if you find a lost dog, including important considerations for approaching the dog and how to keep both you and the dog safe.

Odd Behaviors of Dogs: Running in Their Sleep and More

Learn all about your dog's odd sleep behaviors, including snoring, twitching, running in his sleep, and what they all mean.

Where Does Your Pup's Bad Behavior Come From?

Learn where your dog's bad dog behavior comes from, as well as advice on dealing with it it and training tips to help him to overcome common issues.

Balanced Dog Foods & When to Change Them

Nutrition is one of the most important components of keeping your dog healthy, so choosing a well-balanced dog food full of nutrients is key. Learn more.

The Safest Way to Travel With a Dog in the Car

Use these helpful tips for going on a road trip with your dog to keep him safe and happy.

Important Information About Spaying & Neutering Your Puppy

Learn about the benefits to spaying or neutering your puppy, including questions about the surgery and what to expect after he's done.

Ataxia in Dogs: Types, Symptoms & Treatment

Learn about the medical condition ataxia in dogs, including common signs like incoordination, as well as types of the condition and how its treated.

Dogs and Fireworks: How to Help Your Frightened Pooch

Does your dog struggle with the loud noises from fireworks? Read information about canine noise anxiety, and get tips on how to help them cope.

How to Treat A Cut on A Dog (& What to Put on It)

Learn basic steps & precautions for treating a cut on your dog, including what you can put on the cut, and when you should take them to the vet.

Is Chocolate Bad for My Dog? (& What to Do If They Eat It)

Learn the the dangers of feeding your dog chocolate, which types are most dangerous, and what to do if you discover that they have consumed chocolate.

How to Manage IBD in Dogs

Learn if your dog may be experiencing symptoms of IBD, why it's different from IBS in people, and how your vet can help manage and treat this condition.

Can Dogs Eat Turkey?

Is turkey meat safe for dogs? Learn whether it's OK to feed your dog turkey and important info about certain spices, turkey skin & turkey bones.

Anemia in Dogs: Signs, Treatment, Prevention & More

Discover the clinical symptoms of anemia in dogs, why the condition occurs, how its diagnosed & treated, and how you can help with prevention in your dog.

The Importance of Exercise for Your Puppy

Find out why exercising is so important to your puppy's overall healthy by reading through these 4 helpful facts.

Dog Park Rules: Do's and Don'ts

Learn about the dog park rules that make for a fun time at the park. Park outings are a fun way to socialize with your dog, but safety comes first.

Why Do Dogs Howl?

Learn some possible reasons for your dog's howling, which breeds are most active howlers, and some training tips for getting them to stop.

Steps to Take If Your Dog Is Vomiting Blood

Here are three steps to take if you find that your dog is vomiting blood.

Dogs and Ticks: Protecting Your Pup

Everything you need to know about dogs & ticks: identifying different types of ticks, what diseases they can cause and how to prevent future tick bites.