If you feed your German Shepherd the same thing every day, they will get bored and weary of it. It is necessary to bring slight variations of healthy and delicious food into their diet. But while you do that, questions and doubts always arise in mind, “is it really safe to feed this to my dog?”. I understand because I have been there, especially when I first got my german Shepherd. I would always search countless websites for foods safe for my German Shepherds because their health equals my happiness.
So the question is, “can German Shepherds eat guavas?” The answer to that question simply is yes! But some things need to be considered when you are feeding them guavas. This article will discuss the benefits, nutritional values, things to be careful about, and so much more.
Benefits of guavas for German Shepherd’s
Guavas are a very healthy and fulfilling replacement for German shepherd dog treats that are highly processed and have artificial flavours and ingredients. They are rich in nutrition. They are the source of fibre, vitamin C, Vitamin A, vitamin k, potassium, carbs, antioxidants, iron, and magnesium. It also consists of lycopene which has several benefits for your German Shepherd.
Fibers
Fibers are beneficial for the overall health of your German Shepherd. It is essential for their gut health. It helps to produce helpful microorganisms that assist their digestion. It prevents excessive cholesterol absorption in the intestines and regulates bowel movements. Also, if your german shepherd is constipated, fibers greatly help in such situations.
Vitamin C
This vitamin is essential to boost immunity in your German Shepherds for them to fight diseases, bacteria, and allergies. Vitamin C also boosts collagen, keeping their skin and fur healthy. It also fights against chronic illnesses like cancer. Vitamin C is also recommended for pregnant german shepherds.
Vitamin A
For the German Shepherd’s eyes to see and function properly at night, vitamin A is essential. It improves their reproductive abilities and keeps their skin and coat healthy and shiny.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K helps to avoid blood clots, reduces the risk of bone fracture, and fights against liver cancer. It keeps their bones in good shape.
Potassium
More than 60% of a GSD’s body constitutes water, and potassium maintains a healthy balance between water and acids. It regulates muscle contractions. When the potassium levels are well balanced, the calcium absorption rate becomes higher, which means they will have healthy and strong bones.
Magnesium
Magnesium helps regenerate their muscles and is important for the proper functioning several organs like the heart and liver.
Lycopene
Lycopene helps to fight against cancer. It can also be good for their vision. It slows down the speed of eye problems in elderly dogs.
Improves their mood
If you are a german shepherd owner, I am certain that you have noticed mood swings in them. Guava consists of magnesium which is thought to improve mood. Guava is also called a “natural antidepressant,” so it can elevate their mood.
Precautions to take while feeding guavas to your GSD
Even though guavas have a lot of benefits and are a healthy snack, there are still some things that you need to be careful about as a gsd owner.
If you are feeding your GSD guava for the first time
It is important to remember that if it is the first time you are feeding guava to your GSD, you should start with a small piece and wait for the next 24 hours. This way, you can see whether they like it or not or if they are allergic to it. In case of any reaction, stop feeding them guavas immediately and contact your vet if it’s severe.
Moderation
Giving guava to your german shepherd can be very good and beneficial for them as long as it is done in moderation. There is a high amount of fiber and natural sugar in guavas. Where fiber is good for bowel movements and digestion, too much of it can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Guavas can be used as a snack or treat, not as a meal. Just a slice or two is enough. Feeding an excessive amount of nutrient-rich food can cause an imbalance in the german shepherd’s body.
Thoroughly washing and cutting them.
Unless the guava is 100% organic, there are chances of pesticides and germs being on the peel of the guava. Always wash the guava thoroughly before giving it to your German Shepherd, and you can also take off the peel if you don’t feel it is safe for your dog. It is advised to feed them guava without the peel.
Never throw the whole guava for your dog to eat. That amount is not good for them; they can also choke on it. Always cut it into small bite-size pieces and give it to your German Shepherd.
Removing the guava seeds
It is better to remove the seeds before feeding the guava to your dog as they can get stuck between their teeth or intestines and cause problems.
Can German shepherd puppies eat guava?
Yes, puppies can eat guava, which is a good and healthy snack for them but make sure to feed them guava in very small amounts and cut them into small pieces. You can also make a guava puree and give it to your puppy. This will reduce the risk of them choking. One thing to remember is that juice and puree are not the same. Never give them guava juice.
When to avoid feeding guavas to your GSD
If they are diabetic
Guavas have a large amount of natural sugar in them, so if your german shepherd is diabetic, it is better to contact your vet before feeding them guava, or you might want to avoid it overall.
If they are allergic
It is not very common, but your German Shepherd can be allergic to guavas, so if you feed them guava and they have any allergic reaction, then you should stop and contact your vet.
If they have a sensitive stomach
If your GSD has any types of stomach issues and a weak digestive system, it would be better to give them a small piece and see if it causes any issues because guavas are rich in fiber, and ingesting too can cause digestive issues like diarrhea.
My experience
Whenever I snack on guavas, my German Shepherd always looks up at me with hopeful eyes. It made my heart melt, and I immediately wanted to give it to him, but my concerns stopped me. When I finally researched that feeding guavas to your dog are safe, I gave him a small bite, and he devoured it in seconds. I always take the necessary precautions before I feed him guava because his health is my top priority.
FAQs
Can German shepherds eat guava leaves?
No, you cannot feed guava leaves to your german shepherd, it is toxic for them, and if they accidentally ingest it, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea, so it is better to contact your vet as soon as possible.
How much guava can my dog eat?
The amount depends on the size of your dog. If they are small, you should feed them a really small amount compared to bigger dogs.
How to know if my German Shepherd is allergic to guavas?
If you feed them guava and they have the following reactions, then they might be allergic to it:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Red itchy eyes
- Itchiness or other skin issues
- Ear infection
Contact your vet and get your dog checked immediately.
