Can Dogs Eat Pineapple? Fresh, Canned and Dried

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The sweet, tangy taste of pineapple is irresistible to some dogs. It is safe in small quantities, but because of its sugar and tough parts, there are a few things to watch for.

Nutrition

Pineapple contains vitamin C, manganese, B vitamins, copper and fibre, as well as bromelain, an enzyme that digests protein. It is mostly water, so it is hydrating. It is also relatively high in sugar compared with some fruits, about ten percent by weight. See essential minerals for dogs.

Preparing fresh pineapple

1. Cut off the crown and skin.
2. Remove the hard core, which is tough and could cause choking or blockage.
3. Cut the soft flesh into small, bite-sized pieces.
4. Serve fresh, or freeze pieces for a cooling snack.

The prickly skin and spiky crown should never be given to dogs.

How much?

Treats should be no more than about ten percent of daily calories. A couple of small cubes suit a small dog, and a few pieces a large dog. Too much can cause diarrhea or stomach upset, because of sugar and acidity.

Canned and dried pineapple

• Canned pineapple in syrup is loaded with sugar and not recommended.
• Canned in juice is better but still sugary. Use tiny amounts if at all.
• Dried pineapple is concentrated sugar and can be very sticky. It is easy to overeat, so avoid it.
• Candied pineapple and pineapple desserts are not suitable.

Pineapple and eating feces

A popular myth says pineapple makes stools taste bad and so stops coprophagia. There is little evidence. Better steps include cleaning up promptly, training and checking with your vet for medical causes.

Dogs that should be careful

• Diabetic dogs: Natural sugars may affect blood sugar. Ask your vet.
• Overweight dogs: Use sparingly.
• Dogs with sensitive stomachs: Acidity may cause upset.
• Dogs with dental disease: Sugar can stick to teeth. See dental disease in dogs.

Signs of trouble

Contact your vet if your dog develops vomiting, severe diarrhea, lethargy or signs of choking after eating pineapple, or if it swallows part of the core or crown.

Other tropical fruit

For other fruit, see mango for dogs and watermelon for dogs.

What is bromelain?

Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that breaks down proteins and is used in meat tenderizers and some supplements. In the small quantities found in a few cubes of fruit, it is not a concern for most dogs. Some owners worry that bromelain irritates the mouth, which can cause a tingling feeling in people, and sensitive dogs may drool or paw at their mouths. If your dog does this, stop feeding pineapple.

Growing your own

If you grow pineapples, keep dogs away from the plants. The leaves are sharp and the plant can cause mouth irritation. Remove fallen fruit promptly, because fermented fruit may contain alcohol, which is unsafe for dogs. See alcohol and dogs.

Frozen pineapple treats

Freeze small cubes of fresh pineapple for a summer snack, or blend a little pineapple with plain unsweetened yogurt and freeze it in an ice tray. Remember that the sugar content still counts, so keep treats to one or two cubes. On hot days, plenty of fresh water, shade and rest are far more important than any snack. Learn the signs of heatstroke and act quickly if you see them.

Introducing it safely

Offer a single small cube the first time and wait a day to see how your dog reacts. If there is no vomiting, loose stool, itching or drooling, you can offer small amounts occasionally. Dogs that get stomach upset from other fruit may react to pineapple's acidity as well, so be cautious with those dogs. Keep a note of what you have tried, to share with your vet if problems appear.

The takeaway

A small piece of fresh pineapple is a safe treat. Remove skin, core and crown, and skip syrupy or dried versions.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.