Can dogs eat banana chips? They sure can! Here are all the benefits, precautions you should know, and a healthy banana chip recipe you can make yourself!
As always, make sure to contact your veterinarian before making dietary changes for your dog.
Are Bananas Good for Dogs?
Bananas are a nutritious snack for humans that also happen to taste delicious. They are easy to eat on the go and can be eaten by themselves without any special recipes. Can dogs eat bananas, though?
According to experts, yes, dogs can eat bananas. There are benefits to this quick treat. However, they are not to the extent humans experience from eating them.
Benefits of Bananas
To understand the different ways bananas can positively impact your dog’s health, we will need to break down its nutritional components.
Potassium – fluid balance, muscle, and blood vessel function.
Magnesium – bone growth and vitamin absorption.
Phosphorus – major component of bone.
Vitamin A – a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your dog’s vision. Vitamin A also helps fetal development, immune function, and cell function.
Iron – carries oxygen in the hemoglobin of red blood cells throughout the body.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids – improves the shine and coat quality of your dog. Omega 3 also has the potential to alleviate skin allergies.
Omega 6 Fatty Acids – promotes healthy skin, skeletal, and muscular tissue. Omega 6 also regulates metabolism and triggers inflammation response.
Fiber – helps digestion and can benefit dogs with gastrointestinal issues. It also helps manage weight and diabetes.
Does your dog adore pumpkin-flavored treats? Check out these healthy homemade pumpkin dog treat recipes!
Cons of Dogs Eating Bananas
Bananas contain a ton of sugar, which isn’t that great for your dog in large amounts. There are three types of natural sugar in bananas, including fructose, glucose, and sucrose.
In small amounts, bananas are still a healthy alternative to some commercial dog treats. If your dog has weight problems, though, cut back treats overall until their weight is managed.
Also, while fiber is a great addition to your dog’s diet, too much of it can cause stomach upset. Avoid this by only giving your dog small amounts of bananas, regardless of weight.
Can a Dog Eat a Banana Peel?
Banana peels are not toxic for dogs to consume, but you still should not allow them to eat them. Peels are difficult for your dog to digest and can cause a dangerous blockage in their digestive tract.
If you have more questions about dogs eating banana peels, consult your veterinarian.
So Can Dogs Eat Banana Chips then?
Yes! Banana chips are safe for your dog to eat. They are a natural snack that can be consumed by your dog in small amounts. Your dog will enjoy a tasty snack, along with the benefits of bananas listed above.
To avoid giving too many banana chips, keep the treats to less than six chips if they are large and less than three if they are small. For the most accurate and informed advice, ask your veterinarian.
Heads Up: If you purchase banana chips from the store, check the nutritional information on the packaging. You will want to ensure no extra sugar has been added to the product.
How to Make Banana Chips
There are a few varieties of banana chips that exist. These include dried, dehydrated, unsweetened banana chips, organic banana chips, and green banana chips.
Each of these is acceptable for your dog to consume as long as there aren’t added ingredients like sugar or extra preservatives. Check the packaging to find out product ingredients if you choose to buy from a store.
The safest option is always to make the banana chips yourself so you can know exactly what is going into your dog’s mouth.
Homemade Banana Chips Recipe: No Added Sugar
- Preheat Oven to 225 degrees F.
- Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel and slice 3 bananas into 1/16 inch thick slices.
- Layout banana slices flat on the parchment-lined baking sheet with some space in between.
- Bake for two hours, or until bananas become a light brown color.
- Remove banana chips from the parchment paper and lay them out to cool.
Want to make your banana chip treats more flavorful? Add a small sprinkle of cinnamon or brush on a very thin layer of lemon juice.
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