Can Dogs Eat Pawpaw? What You Need To Know

This fruit is native to Eastern United States – can dogs eat pawpaw? Learn all about this fruit and whether it is safe for dogs.

Have you ever heard of a pawpaw? It isn’t a papaya, that’s a different fruit. The pawpaw grows naturally in the United States and dogs love to eat it. Keep reading to learn whether it is safe for them and what to do if they eat it.

For ultimate pet safety, I recommend consulting with your vet about all the questions you have about your dog eating pawpaws.

What Is A Pawpaw

Before we look at whether dogs can eat them, it’s important to understand what they are. A pawpaw is a green fruit. It tastes like a cross between a banana and a mango.

There is actually a town in West Virginia named Paw Paw because so many trees grow wild in that area.

You will find it at local farmer’s markets across the east and mid-Atlantic portion of the United States. It’s a green fruit that is ready to be harvested from the end of August through October. They are usually 3-6 inches long. They start out green with black spots, then a yellow color, and as they over-ripen they go to brown and purplish black.

They have a bright yellow flesh with a really fruity aroma that dogs are drawn to! If your have a pawpaw tree or brought some of this fruit home from the farmer’s market, chances are your dog will want some.

Can Dogs Eat Pawpaws

Yes, dogs can safely eat pawpaws, but you should be careful with how much they eat. They are not toxic to dogs; however, veterinarians suggest watching out for signs of loose stool.

Pawpaws are really high in fiber and too much of this sweet fruit could cause dogs to have diarrhea. If you notice your dog acting sick or exhibiting strange behavior after eating a pawpaw, please contact your vet immediately.

Pawpaws are also really high in natural sugars too. Dogs should not eat too much sugar – even from fruit. It will lead to unhealthy weight gains which could put them at a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease.

Can Dogs Eat Pawpaw Leaves?

No, dogs should not eat pawpaw leaves. Leaves are not a good for a dog’s stomach. Dogs won’t normally want to eat the leaves. If they do, just watch for signs of an upset stomach or indigestion. If you notice any abnormal symptoms, contact your veterinarian.

Can Dogs Eat Pawpaw Seeds

If you are going to share pawpaw with your dog, remove the seeds first. Seeds could cause intestinal blockage or indigestion. Their bodies don’t digest seeds very well.

Can Dogs Eat Pawpaw Skin

Yes, it is safe for your dog to eat the pawpaw skin. You do not have to peel it before sharing it with your dog. Remember to please only give them a small amount at a time so that they don’t have a bad reaction to it.

Can Dogs Eat Pawpaw Juice

No, dogs should not drink fruit juice of any kind, including pawpaw juice. Dogs are sensitive to high-calorie and high-sugar foods, like juice. Too much sugar will cause them to gain weight, which puts them at a higher risk for obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

Can Dogs Eat Pawpaw Jelly

No, dogs should not eat pawpaw jelly. There is nothing healthy about pawpaw jelly, for dogs. It is just a pure source of sugar and calories, which will negatively effect your dog’s weight and health.

Even though a small amount of pawpaw jelly is safe for your dog (meaning, it isn’t toxic) it is still a good idea to not give them any.

Final Thoughts

The pawpaw fruit is a sweet choice if you live on the east coast of the United States. Your dog will really enjoy this treat! Just be careful with how much they eat since it is known to give some dogs diarrhea.

More Dog Food Resources

Here are some articles about other human foods and whether they are safe or toxic for your dog to eat.

• Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit
• Can Dogs Eat Honeydew
• Can Dogs Eat Lychee
• Can Dogs Eat Pears
• Can Dogs Eat Plantains
• Can Dogs Eat Prunes

Find lots of articles on food dogs can and can’t eat here on Spoiled Hounds!

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