Can Dogs Have Dried Mango (or Fresh Mangoes)?

Ever found yourself snacking on a juicy mango and wondered, “Can my dog get in on this tropical treat?” At A Pup Above, we get it — when those big puppy eyes are staring you down, it’s hard not to share what’s in your hand. 

Mangoes, with their bright color and sweet flavor, seem like the perfect fruit to toss your pup's way. But before you do, it’s important to know whether this fruity snack is actually a safe option for your dog.

Interested in discovering more? We’ve got you covered. From dried to fresh mangoes, the skin to the pit, and everything in between, we’re here to break it down. 

Is Mango Good for Dogs?

Mangoes are a delicious tropical fruit known for their bright orange flesh and sweet, juicy flavor. We humans love them in everything from smoothies to salads, but what about our dogs? Can they get in on the mango action?

The good news is that, yes, dogs can enjoy mango in moderation! The soft, juicy part of the mango is generally safe and can be a refreshing treat for your pup. Just remember, like with any treat, moderation is key. 

Too much of anything — even something as tasty as mango — can lead to an upset stomach. So, while it’s a fun, occasional snack, it’s not something you want to overload your dog with.

Dried vs. Fresh Mangoes

When it comes to feeding your dog mango, fresh is definitely the way to go. Fresh mangoes are juicy, hydrating, and packed with natural sweetness. 

On the other hand, dried mangoes, while still tasty, often come with a catch. Dried fruit loses a lot of its water content, which means it’s much more concentrated in sugar and calories. Plus, store-bought dried mango often has added sugars and preservatives, which aren’t great for your pup’s health.

So, if you’re thinking of sharing some mango with your dog, opt for fresh. It’s the healthier, more natural choice and far less likely to cause digestive issues. Fresh mango keeps things light and refreshing, while dried mango can pack too much of a sugary punch for your dog’s system.

Can Dogs Eat Mango Skins?

While the flesh of a mango is safe for dogs, the skin is a different story. Mango skin is tough, difficult to digest, and could cause an upset stomach or even a blockage, especially in smaller dogs. It’s also a bit fibrous, which makes it hard for dogs to chew properly. 

By removing the skin, you’re making sure your pup can enjoy the good stuff without any risks. After all, nobody wants to deal with a stomach ache — or worse, a trip to the vet — over a piece of fruit!

How Much Mango Is Safe To Eat?

When it comes to giving your dog mango, less is definitely more. While the juicy fruit is a fun treat, you don’t want to overdo it. As touched on previously, too much mango can lead to an upset stomach, mainly because of its natural sugars and fiber content. It’s best to offer mango as an occasional snack, not a regular part of their diet.

Here’s a simple guide to how much mango you can safely give your dog based on their size:

Stick to these portions, and you’ll keep your dog happy without overloading them on sugar. It’s always a good idea to introduce new treats slowly and see how your dog responds. If they seem to enjoy it without any tummy troubles, feel free to treat them again another time!

What Vitamins and Nutrients Do Mangoes Have?

Mangoes aren’t just tasty — they also come packed with some serious nutritional benefits. While they should only be given as a treat, it's nice to know that your dog is getting a little extra boost of vitamins and nutrients when they snack on this sweet fruit. 

Let’s break down what’s inside a mango that can be good for your dog.

Vitamin A

Mangoes are rich in vitamin A, which helps support your dog’s vision, immune system, and even their skin and coat health. It’s an important nutrient that can contribute to their overall well-being, especially when it comes to keeping those eyes sharp and their fur shiny.

Vitamin C

Just like for humans, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant for dogs, helping to support their immune system. While dogs can produce their own vitamin C, a little extra from a mango treat doesn’t hurt and can help give them a small immune boost.

Fiber

Mangoes contain a decent amount of fiber, which aids in digestion. For dogs, fiber can help keep their digestive system running smoothly. Just remember, too much fiber can have the opposite effect, so always stick to those recommended portions!

Potassium

Potassium is another key nutrient found in mangoes. It’s essential for muscle function and helps maintain a healthy balance of fluids in your dog’s body. While your dog should already be getting enough potassium from their regular diet, a bit from a mango treat adds a little extra benefit.

Antioxidants

Mangoes are packed with antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can support your dog’s overall health, especially as they age. While mangoes aren’t a cure-all, these antioxidants can play a small role in keeping your pup feeling good.

Is There a Part of the Mango a Dog Shouldn’t Eat?

While we’ve already talked about mango skin, that’s not the only part of the fruit to watch out for. The pit, or seed, inside the mango is something your dog should absolutely avoid. 

Mango pits are large, tough, and pose a serious choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs. Even for bigger dogs, swallowing the pit could lead to an intestinal blockage, which is a trip to the vet nobody wants to make.

On top of that, the pit contains small amounts of cyanide, which is toxic to dogs (and humans, too). While the amount is low and usually not enough to cause harm unless consumed in large quantities, it’s still something you don’t want to risk. 

The best thing you can do is remove the pit and skin before serving your dog any mango, making sure they only get the soft, fleshy part. By keeping the pit and skin out of the equation, you’re ensuring that mango time stays fun and safe for your pup!

What Other Fruits Are Good for Dogs?

If your dog loves mango, there are plenty of other fruits they can enjoy too! While not all fruits are safe for dogs, several are great as occasional treats, offering their own set of nutrients and benefits. 

Here are a few dog-friendly fruits you can share with your pup:

Blueberries

These little berries are packed with antioxidants and fiber. They’re low in calories and make for a great training treat or snack. Plus, they’re bite-sized, so no cutting required!

Apples

Apples are a crunchy, low-calorie treat that dogs love. They’re a good source of fiber and vitamin C, but be sure to remove the core and seeds, as those parts can be harmful.

Strawberries

Strawberries are sweet and full of vitamin C and fiber. They’re a great treat in moderation, but since they contain natural sugars, you’ll want to keep portions small.

Watermelon

Watermelon is super hydrating and full of vitamins A, B6, and C. Just make sure to remove the seeds and rind before giving it to your dog, as those parts aren’t safe for them to eat.

Bananas

Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, making them a great occasional snack. They’re also naturally sweet, so dogs tend to love the taste. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as bananas are higher in sugar than some other fruits.

Conclusion

So, can dogs have dried mango? What about fresh mango? Fresh mango is a safe and tasty treat for your pup in moderation, while dried mango is best avoided due to its concentrated sugar content. Just remember to peel off the skin and remove the pit before sharing.

At A Pup Above, we’re all about providing the best nutrition for your dog — whether it’s understanding what fruits are safe or offering our fresh, high-quality meals. Ready to give your dog the best? 

Check out our human-grade, sous-vide dog food designed to keep your pup healthy and happy — trust us, you (and your pup) will be glad you did!

Sources:

Can Dogs Eat Mango? Are Mangoes Good For Dogs? | American Kennel Club

Can You Eat Mango Skin? | Taste of Home

Mango-licious: The Top 6 Health Benefits of Mango | Cleveland Clinic

What Is Fiber and Why Does Your Dog Need it in Their Diet? | AKC

Can Dogs Eat Cherries? | American Kennel Club