Can Dogs Have Kiwi? Discover Why Kiwi Seeds Are Toxic to Dogs and What You Need to Know

Kiwi Seed Safety for Dogs

Kiwi seeds contain trace amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when metabolized. However, the risk of cyanide poisoning from kiwi seeds is generally very low, as a dog would need to consume a large volume of seeds for toxicity to reach a harmful level.

In everyday scenarios, the occasional kiwi slice—seeds included—is unlikely to pose a health risk to dogs due to the minimal quantity of cyanogenic glycosides present. However, a cautious approach is always recommended.

If a large number of kiwi seeds are accidentally ingested, the resulting metabolic breakdown products could potentially result in mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea or an upset stomach.

Not all dogs react the same way to kiwi seeds: individual sensitivities and pre-existing health conditions might affect their ability to tolerate this fruit’s seeds.

For dogs with specific health issues, such as those with compromised liver function, the metabolic demand required to process even trace toxins might prove to be a significant burden.

For optimum safety when feeding your dog kiwi, consider removing the seeds to sidestep the concerns associated with their chemical content and to prevent any potential choking hazards, especially in smaller breeds.

Serving sliced, seedless kiwi in moderation ensures your pet can enjoy this fruit’s benefits safely.

Should your dog consume kiwi seeds in significant numbers, monitoring them for signs of toxicity—including lethargy, difficulty breathing, or excessive salivation—is crucial.

While cases of acute cyanide poisoning from consuming kiwi seeds are extremely rare, contacting your veterinarian as a precaution could help address any potential risks swiftly.

Remember that variety in a diet can be beneficial to your pet, but it’s always best served with a side of safety.

While kiwis offer vitamins and minerals that can be good for your dog in small amounts, emphasizing caution with how much and what parts of the fruit they consume makes snacking both enjoyable and safe.

Digestive Impact of Kiwi Seeds on Dogs

Kiwi seeds pass through the canine digestive tract relatively intact, yet this doesn’t eliminate the potential for concern among pets, especially smaller breeds and those with sensitive digestion.

When ingested in sizable quantities, they are capable of aggregating in the intestines, posing a risk for obstructions, which is a serious condition that can cause severe digestive upset and may require surgical intervention.

Dr. Lisa Freeman, a veterinary nutritionist, advises pet owners to consider the dog’s size and overall health when introducing new foods such as kiwi seeds into their diets. She states:

“While small quantities of kiwi seeds are unlikely to harm a large dog, smaller breeds might be less tolerant, and dogs with a history of gastrointestinal issues should avoid them altogether.”

Digestively, while most dogs handle small amounts of kiwi without problems, the seeds can increase the risk of an upset stomach. Some symptoms to watch for include:

• Abdominal discomfort
• Decreased appetite
• Sudden change in bowel movements

This could signify that the seeds are not agreeing with your pet’s digestive system.

Dr. Freeman emphasizes the precautionary principle, especially with non-canine typical foods:

“Just because a food item is non-toxic, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe for all dogs under all conditions. The size of the dog, its breed, digestive history, and existing health conditions play a considerable role in how well it can tolerate different foods.”

Therefore, while the debate on the potential hazards posed by kiwi seeds continues, the advice from experts leans towards caution. Moderation remains key in ensuring these risks do not manifest adversely.

For responsible pet owners seeking to uphold their pet’s health while diversifying their diet, thoroughly consulting with a vet before introducing any new food items can offer personalized guidance tailored to the specific dietary needs and health profile of their canine companion.

Preparation and Serving Suggestions

When preparing kiwi for your dog, it’s essential to prioritize safety and maximize nutritional benefits while minimizing risks. Here are some step-by-step guidelines on how to prepare and serve kiwi to your canine safely and creatively:

1. Choose Ripe Kiwi: Begin by selecting ripe kiwis that are firm and free of bruises or blemishes. A ripe kiwi should feel slightly soft when gently pressed. Overripe or mushy kiwis, or those that appear shriveled or moldy, should be avoided as they may cause stomach upset.
2. Wash Thoroughly: Clean the kiwi thoroughly under running water to remove any pesticides or dirt from the skin. Even if you plan to peel the fruit, washing is crucial to ensure that no harmful residues contaminate the edible part when cutting through the skin.
3. Peeling: Carefully peel the skin off the kiwi. The skin can be tough and fibrous, which may cause digestive issues for dogs.
4. Removing the Seeds: Use a knife to slice the kiwi lengthwise, making it easier to see and remove the seeds. Taking the extra step to remove the seeds eliminates any worries about the tiny risk of cyanide they carry.
5. Cutting into Appropriate Sizes: Depending on your dog’s size, chop the kiwi into suitable bite-sized pieces. Small dogs could choke on larger pieces, so they might need smaller chunks compared to bigger breeds.
6. Introducing Kiwi Gradually: If it’s your dog’s first time trying kiwi, start with a small piece to ensure there are no adverse reactions or allergies.¹ Observe your dog for any signs of discomfort or allergic reactions. If there are no negative reactions after a day or two, you can gradually increase the portion slightly.
7. Creative Serving Suggestions: To make kiwi more enjoyable for your dog, you can mix the fruit pieces with other safe fruits like blueberries or apple slices for a refreshing fruit salad. Freezing kiwi slices during hot weather can provide a soothing, cool treat.² Additionally, incorporating mashed kiwi into plain yogurt can create a tasty and healthy snack—just make sure the yogurt is free from sweeteners or artificial flavors.
8. Moderation Is Key: Always remember that fruits like kiwi should only serve as treats and not replace a significant portion of your dog’s diet. Treats, including fruit, should not make up more than 10% of a dog’s caloric intake to maintain a balanced diet.³

By adhering to these preparation steps and creative serving ideas, you can safely integrate kiwi into your dog’s treat repertoire. This enhances their diet with an enjoyable variation that is both safe and tasty, fostering balanced nutrition that supports their health and well-being.

1. Cortinovis C, Caloni F. Household food items toxic to dogs and cats. Front Vet Sci. 2016;3:26.
2. Farcas A, Socaci SA, Tofana M, et al. Nutritional properties and volatile profile of some tropical fruits. Molecules. 2020;25(21):5126.
3. Chandler M, Cunningham S, Lund EM, et al. Obesity and associated comorbidities in people and companion animals: a one health perspective. J Comp Pathol. 2017;156(4):296-309.