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Can Dogs Eat Pears? | Are Pears Good for Dogs?

are pears good for dogs

Referred to as “a gift from the gods” by the Greek poet Homer, pears are a delicious fruit.  The sweet taste of a crisp pear can be a very refreshing snack.  Not only do they taste great, but they also have multiple health benefits!  While enjoying a pear for a snack, with a set of adorable puppy dog eyes looking up at you, you might be tempted to give your furry friend a bite.  But, can dogs eat pears safely?  Are pears good for dogs?  Continue reading for the answers!

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Can Dogs Eat Pears Safely? (The Short Answer)

Yes!  Pears are healthy and, for the most part, safe for dogs to consume!  In moderation, pears can be a great snack for your dog.  Just like for humans, they provide many health benefits through vitamins and minerals.  That being said, it’s important to ensure that you remove all seeds and don’t allow your dog to eat the core.  

It’s important to remember, that even with the best of intentions, accidents happen and dogs can easily eat things they shouldn’t.  Unfortunately, even if those accidents aren’t fatal, they can result in huge, unexpected veterinary expenses.  That’s why we recommend all responsible dog owners get a free, online pet insurance quote from Healthy Paws.

Are Pears Good For Dogs?

We’ve already answered the question, “can dogs eat pears safely?” Now, let’s learn about the benefits of feeding your dog this food! Are pears good for dogs?

Yes!  Pears are healthy for dogs when given in moderation.  They contain ample amounts of vitamins including Vitamin A, and Vitamin C.  They also contain minerals such as potassium, iron, and calcium.  Lastly, the contain a significant amount of fiber.  The nutrients in pears can help promote digestive and cardiac health, and has even been shown to prevent certain types of cancer!

There can be too much of a good thing though, it’s recommended that pears only make up 5-10% of your dog’s diet at most.  For a small dog, this could mean a few small bites is enough, and in most cases, an entire pear would be overdoing it.  Too much can result in an upset stomach.  

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Are Pears Bad for Dogs?

We’ve already answered the question, “can dogs eat pears safely?” Now, let’s learn about the dangers of feeding your dog this food! Are pears bad for dogs?

There are very few dangers associated with dogs ingesting pears.  That being said, there are some that you should be aware of.  The core and seeds should not ever be given to your pet.  Additionally, the pears should be cut into small pieces to avoid choking.  

Keep in mind that when serving pears to your dog, you should always remove the seeds and core.  The seeds contain trace amount of cyanide that can be toxic to dogs.  This is especially true if they’re ingesting them frequently.  The core is difficult for your pup to digest and can result in indigestion and an upset stomach.

Pears do have a significant amount of sugar in them which can be unhealthy for dogs, so they should only be given in moderation.  

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Alternative Options

If you don’t have access to pears  or would prefer to share a different snack with your dog, try these tasty and healthy alternatives instead:

Other Varieties & Related Foods:

Can Dogs Eat Asian Pears?

Yes!  Dogs can safely enjoy Asian pears.  The main difference is the taste—Asian pears generally have a more tart taste compared to other pears that tend to be more sweet.  Other than the taste they’re virtually the same, and are safe for your dog to consume.  

Can Dogs Eat Korean Pears?

Yes, dogs can eat Korean pears!  They are essentially the same as Asian pears.  They are also more tart than sweet but chemically the same to all other pears so they’re safe to give to your furry friend.  

Are Canned Pears Safe for Your Pup?

No, you should avoid giving canned pears to your dog.  Fresh pears are a significantly better choice for your dog than canned pears.  Canned pears can contain a lot of excess sugars which aren’t healthy for your dog and cause can gastrointestinal upset.  Most canned pears also contain artificial sweeteners and preservatives which can be harmful to your pet.  

Can Dogs Eat Pear Cores?

No, dogs should not eat pear cores.  Fruit cores can be hard for some humans to digest, and it’s especially hard for dogs.  As well as digestion problems, the core contains seeds which can be toxic.  The seeds may contain cyanide which can be harmful to humans and dogs alike.  Cyanide poisoning from seeds is uncommon, but not unheard of so it is better to err on the side of caution and not give your dog any part of the core or the seeds of a pear.  

In Conclusion: Can Dogs Eat Pears Safely?

Yes!  Pears are a great food that can be added to your dog’s diet!  These sweet fruits contain healthy vitamins and minerals that can support your dog’s overall health.  Just remember to not give it in excess, and avoid feeding them the core or seeds, to ensure a healthy and happy pup!

Disclaimer: We are not veterinarians and this article should not be taken as medical or veterinary advice.  If you have any questions about your pet’s health or dietary needs, please contact your local veterinarian.