Bananas are rich in nutrients that benefit not only humans but also our dogs. Potassium, magnesium and vitamin C are just a few valuable vitamins and minerals. We eat them raw, use them in a variety of pastries, cakes and even drink banana nectar. However, not everything a person eats is allowed for a dogs. Therefore, in this article, we will discuss whether dogs are allowed to eat bananas, how much of bananas you can give to your Australian Shepherd and some tasty recipes!
Are Bananas Good for Australian Shepherds?
Probably you have faced a situation where you grab a banana for yourself and your Australian Shepherd‘s eyes often get bigger, he just doesn‘t pull away from you? however, when considering whether to pamper a dog with sweet fruit, the following questions quickly arise: can dogs tolerate bananas at all, and can you feed them without hesitation? And if so, how many bananas can you give a dog per day?
Healthy Australian Shepherds can enjoy bananas in small quantities and benefit from the valuable ingredients. Small puppies should get only a few pieces, while an adult can handle half of banana. It is recommended to give banana only every 2-3 days, and try not to multiply them. It is still a high-sugar fruit and should not replace a normal diet.
With overweight dogs you should make sure that you only rarely give bananas. For example, on a day when your Aussie has had a lot of exercise and can tolerate a small increase in calories.
What Health Benefits Will an Australian Shepherd Get From Bananas?
Bananas are probably the most popular fruit on earth, growing in various warm climates. They come in a variety of colors, sizes and shapes, but the most popular are yellow bananas. But what are they good for? What health benefits will your Australian Shepherd get from bananas?
Essential vitamins and trace elements that bananas can add to your dog‘s diet:
- Potassium
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin C
- Magnesium
- Copper
- Manganese
- Carbohydrates
- Fibrous materials
- Protein
Fiber has various health benefits, including digestion. It can help your dog with constipation. Also, bananas can help your Australian Shepherd to keep the right calcium level in the bones, as well as promote the development of healthy and strong bones.
Bananas are rich in B vitamins, so they improve mental activity, help to concentrate, strengthen the nervous system, increase resistance to stress. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps the body to heal and also fights with colds.
Are Banana Peels Poisonous to Dogs?
Your Australian Shepherd has eaten banana peel and you are wondering now if banana peels are poisonous for dogs? Don‘t worry too much, they are not poisonous or harmful to the dog. However, still by choice it should not be fed to dogs, as banana peels can be contaminated with pesticides and fungicides and cause nausea in dogs. In addition, the peel has a very solid structure, which can strain the digestion of your dog. In summary, peel is the part from banana, that your dog should not eat.
How Often Can You Give Your Australian Shepherd a Banana Treat?
As you already know, bananas are very tasty and healthy. They contain extremely useful nutrients that help maintain digestion, heart and well-being. However, excessive amounts of bananas can cause heart and digestive problems. We therefore recommend that you feed your dog between a few pieces to two bananas per week, depending on its size and weight.
Small dogs should not even eat half a banana a week, large adult dog can tolerate up to two bananas, which you optimally feed in several parts. Also, it is good to consult with veterinarian about the amount and frequency, he will advise what would be the right amount according to your Australian Shepherd‘s diet.
Can Banana Help Dogs Who Have Problems With Diarrhea?
Bananas have a similar effect on dogs as to humans. Bananas stimulate constipation and can help with diarrhea. These fruits are rich in fiber, which helps to thicken stools and improve bowel movement. The amount of pectin absorbs excess fluid in the gut, making the stool firmer and can stop diarrhea.
In contrast, dogs prone to constipation should not be given bananas as this can further aggravate symptoms. Bananas are also high in potassium, which in large quantities can cause health problems in dogs.
Delicious Banana Recipes Your Australian Shepherd Will Love
Banana ice cream for your Australian Shepherd – the little cool down on hot days
Recipe 1: Banana ice cream that you can quickly prepare yourself
- Cut the banana into small pieces
- Mix it with yogurt
- Pour into an ice form (if you don‘t have it on hand, you can also fill a Kong toy or use ice cube forms)
- Place in the freezer for a few hours
- Done! The dog ice cream is ready.
Recipe 2: Banana and peanut butter dessert
You will need:
- 1 beaten egg
- 1 banana without peel (granted)
- 2 tablespoons xylitol-free peanut butter
- 1 cup oatmeal or coconut flour
- 2/3 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup of dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon of honey
Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 145 degrees;
- Mix all ingredients and leave for 5 minutes;
- Make about 25 balls from the dough, place them on a baking sheet lined with baking paper and press with a spoon to form flat diskettes;
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes and leave to cool;
- Done! Smells good right?
Final Thoughts
Dogs are allowed to eat bananas, but as with everything – in moderation. Larger dogs can eat approximately half banana every 2-3 days and smaller dogs only small pieces. These fruits can relieve the symptoms of some diseases, can help with diarrhea, and in general are beneficial to your dog‘s body. The fruit should be avoided if your dog has problems with overweight. As always, it is best to consult your veterinarian to select the most appropriate amount for your pet.