Why
Kiwi is not toxic to dogs. It is a good source of vitamin C, fiber and potassium. The tiny black seeds are not toxic and are small enough to eat along with the flesh.
Kiwi is high in fiber and water, and too much can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea. The fuzzy skin is not toxic, but it is tough and hard to digest. A whole kiwi is just the right size to lodge in a dog's throat, so it should always be cut up.
What to watch out for
- Choking on a whole kiwi
- Diarrhea or gas from too much fiber
- Skin, which is hard to digest
- Sugar content for dogs with diabetes
- Dogs with sensitive stomachs
How to serve it
- Peel the kiwi and cut it into slices or small cubes.
- The seeds do not need to be removed.
- Offer one or two small pieces the first time and watch for loose stool.
- Never toss a whole kiwi to your dog.
How much?
A small dog can have one or two small pieces of kiwi and a large dog up to several, now and then.
Why a whole kiwi is risky
A kiwi is small, round and firm, about the size of a ball some dogs play with. The AKC warns that a large dog could swallow one in a single bite and that the fruit could lodge in the throat and block the airway. PetMD adds that a swallowed whole kiwi could also cause an intestinal blockage.
Keep the fruit bowl out of reach, and do not leave kiwis on low tables or in grocery bags on the floor. If your dog swallowed a whole kiwi and is gagging, struggling to breathe or vomiting, get to a vet right away.
Kiwi skin and gold kiwis
Kiwi skin is not toxic, but PetMD notes that it is roughage that can be hard to digest and may cause gas or discomfort. Peeling is the simplest way to avoid trouble, especially for small dogs and dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Gold kiwis have smoother skin and sweeter flesh than green ones. The same rules apply: peel, cut into small pieces and keep the amount small, since the extra sweetness means more sugar.
Can kiwi help a constipated dog?
PetMD notes that kiwi's high water and fiber content can help ease constipation. That same fiber is why too much kiwi can quickly swing the other way and cause diarrhea.
A dog that is straining, has not passed stool for a couple of days, or is vomiting needs a vet, not a fruit remedy. These can be signs of a blockage or another problem that fruit will not fix. Ask your vet before using any food to treat a digestive problem.
Common questions
Is kiwi good for dogs?
Yes, as an occasional treat. Kiwi is not toxic to dogs. It is a good source of vitamin C, fiber and potassium.
Is kiwi bad for dogs?
Not in sensible amounts. The main thing to watch: choking on a whole kiwi.
Are dogs allowed to have kiwi?
Yes. Peel the kiwi and cut it into slices or small cubes.
Sources
- PetMD. Can Dogs Eat Kiwi?
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.
- American Kennel Club (AKC). “Can Dogs Eat…?” article series.
If your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not wait for symptoms. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).