Can Dogs Eat Mango? Pit, Skin and Sugar Warnings

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Juicy and sweet, mango is a tropical favorite, and many dogs enjoy a taste. The flesh is fine in moderation. The pit and skin are the parts to worry about, along with the sugar.

Nutrition

Mango contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B6, potassium and fibre. It also contains antioxidants. It is low in fat and protein but relatively high in natural sugar, with about fourteen grams in a cup of slices. See essential vitamins for dogs.

Remove the pit

The mango pit is large, hard and slippery. It can cause choking, and if swallowed, it can cause an intestinal blockage, especially in small dogs. The pit also contains small amounts of compounds that can release cyanide. Dogs that chew and swallow pieces are at higher risk. If your dog swallows a pit, call your vet immediately. Signs of blockage include repeated vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and lethargy. Dispose of pits in a secure bin.

Peel the skin

Mango skin is tough and can upset a dog's stomach. It can also cause an allergic reaction in some animals because it contains compounds similar to those in poison ivy, which may cause mouth irritation in sensitive individuals. Peel the fruit before serving.

Sugar and calories

Because mango is sweet, it can contribute to weight gain and, in diabetic dogs, affect blood sugar. Keep portions small, and ask your vet before giving mango to a diabetic or overweight dog. See how many calories a dog needs.

How much?

Treats should be no more than about ten percent of daily calories. A few small cubes suit a small dog, and a small handful a large dog, occasionally. Too much can cause diarrhea.

How to serve

1. Wash the fruit.
2. Peel it and remove the pit.
3. Cut into small cubes.
4. Serve fresh, or freeze for a cooling treat.

Dried and processed mango

Dried mango is very high in sugar and calories, and easy to overeat. Sweetened dried mango, mango candy, smoothies and sorbets may contain added sugar or xylitol. See xylitol. Avoid them.

Unripe mango

Green mango is hard, sour and more likely to cause stomach upset. Offer only ripe fruit.

Allergies

Mango allergy is uncommon in dogs, but watch for itching, swelling or digestive upset after the first taste.

Other fruit with pits

Several fruit pits are hazardous. See cherries and peaches for more. For another tropical option, see pineapple for dogs.

Mango and dental health

Sticky, sugary fruit can cling to teeth, so brush your dog's teeth regularly if it eats fruit often. Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs, and sugar adds to the burden. See dental disease in dogs. Fresh water after a fruit treat helps wash away some of the residue.

Frozen mango treats

Freeze small peeled cubes of ripe mango on a tray, then store them in a container. Offer one or two on a hot day. For a smoother treat, blend mango with plain unsweetened yogurt and freeze it in ice cube trays. Remember that mango is sweet, so keep portions small, and offer other cooling options such as cucumber or ice cubes in the water bowl.

If your dog eats a whole mango

Remove any remaining pit and skin. Watch your dog for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or belly pain over the next day. If it swallowed the pit, call your vet right away rather than waiting for symptoms, as a blockage can need surgery.

The takeaway

Ripe mango flesh is a sweet, occasional treat. Remove the pit and skin, and keep the portions small.

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.