Whether it’s cubed up and added to a fresh fruit salad, blended into a refreshing smoothie, or pureed and frozen into popsicles, cantaloupe is a popular summer melon that many people love. But what about our canine companions? Can dogs eat cantaloupe too?
Short answer: Yes!
Cantaloupe Nutritional Facts
Cantaloupes are in the Cucurbitaceae family (or gourd family). They’re related to watermelons, pumpkins, squash, and zucchini.
When it comes to giving fresh fruits, like cantaloupe, to your dog, moderation is key. A couple of bite-size cubes are perfectly fine. But we’ll talk more about feeding tips below! For now, let’s take a look at the nutrients packed inside 1 small cantaloupe wedge (55 g). According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture:
- Water – 49 g
- Calories – 18.7
- Protein – 0.462 g
- Total fat – 0.105 g
- Carbs – 4.49 g
- Fiber – 0.495 g
- Sugar – 4.32 g
- Calcium – 4.95 mg
- Iron – 0.116 mg
- Magnesium – 6.6 mg
- Phosphorus – 8.25 mg
- Potassium – 147 mg
- Sodium – 8.8 mg
- Choline – 4.18 mg
- Folate – 11.6 µg
- Lutein + zeaxanthin – 14.3 µg
- Beta Carotene – 1110 µg
- Vitamin A – 93 µg
- Vitamin C – 20.2 mg
- Vitamin K – 1.38 µg
Benefits of Cantaloupe
The many nutrients packed inside cantaloupes are linked to the following:
- A Hydrating Bite – Cantaloupe is 90% water, making a few bites of this fruit the perfect thirst-quenching, hydrating treat.
- Perfect Treat For An Overweight Canine – According to The Association For Pet Obesity Prevention, as of 2018, approximately 56% of dogs in the United States were either overweight or obese. Since it’s low in calories and virtually fat-free, cantaloupe is a great treat swap for overweight or obese dogs.
- Supports a Strong Immune System – Cantaloupe is rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants that help support a strong immune system.
- Fights Inflammation – Cantaloupe contains plenty of inflammation-fighting antioxidants.
- Heart Health – Low levels of potassium and magnesium can lead to heart arrhythmias, weaker heart muscle contractions, and low blood pressure. Cantaloupes are a good source of both minerals.
- May Aid Digestive Health – Dietary fiber helps to keep bowel movements regular and soft. Plus, the high water content also helps to lubricate stool and lessen constipation.
- Promotes Eye Health – Lutein + zeaxanthin, vitamin A, and beta carotene are long known for supporting healthy eyes and vision.
Feeding Tips
Since cantaloupe contains natural sugars, moderation is key. Overfeeding can result in tummy upset.
Like watermelon, cantaloupe rinds are a choking hazard, can become impacted in a dog’s digestive tract, and can cause tummy upset. As for the seeds, they are considered non-toxic to dogs. Still, I would recommend only sticking with the fleshy part of this tasty summer fruit.
Cut a small, bite-size cube of cantaloupe and offer it to your pooch as is, or freeze it first!
You can also blend it up to create summertime Pupsicles. To create your own, simply fill a silicone mold with either straight pureed cantaloupe, a combination of pureed fruit and a little coconut oil, or a combination of pureed cantaloupe and a little plain greek yogurt.
When first introducing cantaloupe into your pup’s diet, do so slowly. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with your veterinarian!
Get More Doggy Food Facts
This feature is part of a weekly web series called Food Facts Friday. Every Friday, we share foods that are great for our canine companions. Check out other foods highlighted in this series HERE!
