Can Dogs Eat Cantaloupe?

Sweet, juicy, and packed with that perfect burst of flavor — cantaloupe is the kind of snack that screams summer. Whether you're digging into it fresh or tossing a few chilled cubes into a smoothie, this melon is a go-to treat for us humans. But here’s the real question: can your dog share in the fruity goodness, too?

At A Pup Above, we’re diving into all things cantaloupe — explaining the benefits, how much your dog can safely eat, and the best ways to serve it. So, if you’ve ever wondered whether you can share this sweet treat with your pup, keep reading!

Can Dogs Eat Cantaloupe?

First things first, can your dog eat cantaloupe? Yes! Cantaloupe is non-toxic and totally safe for dogs in moderation. 

Just keep a couple of things in mind: always remove the seeds and rind, and don’t go overboard with portions. Too much cantaloupe can lead to tummy troubles, but a few bites here and there? Totally fine.

What Are the Benefits of Cantaloupe for Dogs?

So, why should you bother sharing this juicy melon with your dog anyway? Cantaloupe packs a punch with several benefits that can help your dog stay healthy and happy. 

Here’s why it makes a great treat:

• Vitamins A, B, C, and K: These are fantastic for boosting your doggie's immunity, maintaining healthy skin and coat, supporting bone growth, and even aiding in blood clotting. Talk about a multivitamin, right?
• Fiber: This helps your pup’s digestion and can contribute to a healthy weight. If your pup struggles with their gut sometimes, a little cantaloupe might help.
• Hydration: With 90% water content, cantaloupe is a yummy way to help your pup stay hydrated, particularly during those scorching summer days.
• Antioxidants: These help protect your pup's cells from damage and keep diseases at bay.

Needless to say, cantaloupe isn’t only a safe snack for your dog — it's a power-packed punch of health benefits, too!

How Can I Serve Cantaloupe to Dogs?

Wondering how to serve cantaloupe to your dog so they can enjoy all the juicy goodness? There are plenty of simple and safe ways to dish out this sweet treat — here are some of them:

Fresh & Raw

The simplest way to serve cantaloupe to your dog is fresh and raw. Just slice it into bite-sized pieces, remove the seeds and rind, and your pup’s good to go! Cantaloupe is soft and easy to chew, making it a perfect treat for dogs to enjoy without any fuss.

Pureed or Blended

If your dog has trouble with chunks or is a picky eater, blending cantaloupe into a puree can be a great option. You can mix it into their regular food for an added burst of flavor or make a fun, dog-friendly smoothie by blending cantaloupe with other dog-safe fruits. Just be sure to leave out any added sugars or artificial sweeteners — only pure, fresh fruit!

Frozen for a Cool Treat

On a hot day, frozen cantaloupe can be a real hit with your dog. Freeze small pieces or cubes of cantaloupe to create a refreshing, cool treat. 

Frozen melon can help hydrate your pup and is especially great for those dogs who love a good crunchy snack. It’ll also last a bit longer than a fresh piece, giving your dog a little more entertainment during snack time.

How Does Cantaloupe Compare to Other Melons Like Watermelon or Honeydew?

We’ve covered cantaloupe, but what about other melons? How do they stack up for your dog? Watermelon and honeydew are both popular melons, and while they all share some similarities, they each have their own unique benefits. 

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which melon might be best for your pup.

Watermelon

Watermelon is another hydrating fruit packed with water content — about 92%, making it perfect for keeping your dog hydrated. It’s also rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, supporting your dog’s immune system and overall health. 

While cantaloupe is higher in nutrients like vitamin A, watermelon offers a similar refreshing, low-calorie treat. Just like cantaloupe, you should remove the seeds and rind before serving. Watermelon’s high water content makes it a great choice for hydration, but its sweetness can be higher, so moderation is key.

Honeydew

Honeydew, with its light, sweet flavor, is similar to cantaloupe but tends to be milder and a little less nutrient-dense. It still packs in vitamins A and C and is low in calories, making it a good, healthy snack for dogs. 

However, cantaloupe has a bit more fiber and antioxidants, so it might offer more overall health benefits. Both melons are safe for dogs, but cantaloupe edges out honeydew slightly in terms of nutritional value, particularly with its higher levels of beta-carotene and fiber.

In the end, all three melons — cantaloupe, watermelon, and honeydew — are great choices for keeping your dog cool and healthy during hot weather. Each one brings its own benefits, so it’s nice to mix things up and offer variety while still being mindful of portion sizes.

Should Dogs Eat Melon Rinds?

By now, you know not to let your dog chow down on the melon rind, but why is that? While melon rinds aren’t toxic to dogs, they can be tough to digest and might lead to stomach upset. Rinds can also pose a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs or those who tend to gulp their food without chewing properly.

The tough texture can be hard on your dog’s digestive system, and in some cases, it could even cause a blockage if your dog manages to swallow large chunks. So, it’s always best to remove the rind before sharing any melon with your pup, leaving them with the soft, easy-to-digest flesh that’s packed with the good stuff.

What Are Some Other Dog-Safe Fruits to Try

If your dog loves cantaloupe, why not mix things up with some other dog-safe fruits? There are plenty of tasty, healthy options to share with your pup that offer a variety of flavors and nutrients. 

Here are a few favorites:

Blueberries

Blueberries are like little power-packed treats. These bite-sized berries are full of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins that help boost your dog’s health. Plus, they’re perfect for tossing into the air for a fun game of catch or mixing into their food. Whether fresh or frozen, your dog will love them, and they’re super easy on the stomach.

Apples

An apple a day keeps the vet away. Well, sort of! Sliced apples (minus the seeds and core) are crisp, refreshing, and packed with fiber to help keep things moving in your pup’s tummy. They're also full of vitamin C, so they make a healthy, crunchy snack that’s great for all dogs, big and small. Just make sure to keep the seeds out since they can be a bit toxic.

Pineapple

Got a tropical vibe going? Pineapple can be a refreshing treat for your pup on a hot day. Full of vitamin C and bromelain (an enzyme that helps digestion), pineapple is a healthy snack when served in small chunks. Just be sure to remove the tough skin and core — those parts can be a little rough on your dog’s stomach.

The Bottom Line

So, can dogs eat cantaloupe? Absolutely! It’s a hydrating, vitamin-packed treat that your pup can enjoy in moderation. Just remember to remove the seeds and rind and keep portions reasonable to avoid any tummy upset.

If you’re looking for a more balanced way to treat your dog, why not try our Turkey Pawella or Texas Beef Stew? Our meals here at A Pup Above are crafted with 100% human-grade ingredients and are gently cooked using the sous-vide method to lock in all the nutrition and flavor. 

So, treat your dog to the best with our meals — healthy, tasty, and always made with love!

Sources:

Can Dogs Eat Cantaloupe | AKC

25 water-rich foods to help you stay hydrated this summer | Prevention | UT Southwestern Medical Center

Can dogs eat watermelon? Ways to feed your pup fruit safely. | USA Today

Bromelain Information | Mount Sinai