Can dogs eat mango?

The dishes are washed and the couch is looking mighty comfortable. It’s time to grab your signature dessert: a super sweet mango. And your pup wants to enjoy a sweet treat too. Before giving them a bite of your fruit, read our tips to make sure your dog can safely enjoy it, too.

(Even though mangos are generally safe for dogs, you should always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.)

Are mangos good for dogs?

The following benefits of mango are great to incorporate into your pup's diet, but occasional bites here and there aren't enough to drastically improve their well-being:

• Vitamin C: helps with healthy aging, supports the immune system, offers an energy boost
• Vitamin A: promotes vision, dental, coat and skin health
• Vitamin B-6: supports the immune system and nervous system
• Fiber: promotes a healthy gut and helps dogs feel full
  

Are mangos bad for dogs?

While mangos are full of vitamins, they have their downsides, too. Mangos are high in sugar, so they should be served in moderation. Too much sugar can lead to health issues like obesity and poor oral health.

RELATED: Can dogs eat oranges?

How to feed your dog mangos

Like most snacks, it’s important that mangos are served in bite-sized, easily digestible pieces. Dried mangos should be avoided altogether, as it may contain added sugar or high fructose corn syrup.

Skip serving the mango pit, skin and seed as they may contain cyanide (which is toxic to dogs) and also could cause choking and digestive issues.

If you think your dog is choking on a piece of mango, look out for pawing at their mouth, gagging or retching, coughing, turning blue, silence or collapsing. When a dog is choking, it’s important to act fast. In an effort to remove the object, swipe their throat using your finger and perform the Heimlich maneuver — you may need to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), too. Read our article to learn how to act fast in emergency pet choking situations.

When introducing your dog to new foods, it’s important to have an emergency preparedness plan, so you can act fast if they have a poor reaction. Here are some quick steps to get you started:

• Write down the address and phone number of your nearest animal emergency room.
• Post the Pet Poison Helpline number (877-921-2416) in a convenient location and save the number to your phone’s contact list.
• Keep a pet first aid kit in your car and house.
• Organize and have all of your pets’ medical records and vaccination information handy.
  

How much of a mango can I give my dog?

Treats, including mangos, shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Your veterinarian can help you determine proper portions based on your pet's specific needs.

Happy snacking

So, when you’re chilling on the couch post-dinner with your dessert of choice in hand, feel confident safely sharing a few bites of mango with your pup.

We're confident that mango isn’t the only human food your dog would love to sink their teeth into (cue the drool). Check out our series "Can dogs eat … ?" to learn more about which human foods are off-limits and what's fair game.