Can Dogs Eat Watermelon? Yes, Here’s How Much Is Safe
Yes, dogs can eat watermelon: it’s hydrating and low in calories. How much to give by dog size, why to skip the seeds and rind, and easy frozen treat ideas.
· 2 min read
Yes, dogs can eat watermelon. Fresh, seedless watermelon flesh is a safe, low-calorie treat for most dogs, and because it’s about 92% water, it’s perfect on hot days. Just remove the seeds and rind, and keep portions small, since it contains natural sugar.
Quick answer
| Safe? | Yes, the flesh |
| How much? | A few cubes; treats under 10% of daily calories |
| Avoid | Rind, black seeds, watermelon candy or drinks (may contain xylitol) |
| Calories | About 46 kcal per cup (150 g) of cubes |
| Check with your vet | If your dog has diabetes or a sensitive stomach |
How much watermelon can my dog eat?
| Dog size | Example breeds | Daily amount |
|---|---|---|
| Extra small (under 10 lb) | Chihuahua, Yorkie | 1–2 small cubes (1 cm / ½ inch) |
| Small (10–25 lb) | Beagle, French Bulldog | 3–4 small cubes |
| Medium (25–50 lb) | Border Collie, Husky | ½ cup of cubes |
| Large (50–90 lb) | Labrador, Golden Retriever | Up to 1 cup of cubes |
| Giant (90 lb+) | Great Dane, Mastiff | 1–1½ cups of cubes |
Start with less the first time and watch for 24 hours. Too much watermelon can cause loose stools.
Benefits of watermelon for dogs
- Hydration: about 92% water.
- Low in calories: a good swap for fatty training treats, especially for dogs who need to lose weight.
- Vitamins A, B6 and C and potassium.
- Antioxidants such as lycopene.
- Fat- and cholesterol-free.
Risks of feeding watermelon
- Rind: hard to digest and can cause vomiting, diarrhea or a blockage.
- Seeds: black seeds can cause blockages in small dogs.
- Sugar: about 9 g per cup. Fine as a treat, but not for large portions or diabetic dogs.
- Stomach upset: too much at once can cause diarrhea.
- Flavored products: watermelon candy, sweets and drinks are sugary and may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
How to serve watermelon to your dog
- Wash the outside before cutting.
- Cut the flesh off the rind.
- Remove the black seeds, or buy seedless watermelon.
- Cut into bite-sized cubes suited to your dog’s size.
Watermelon treat ideas
- Frozen cubes: a cooling summer snack.
- Watermelon pupsicles: blend seedless watermelon with a little plain, xylitol-free yogurt and freeze in a silicone mold.
- Lick mat topper: mash a little watermelon onto a lick mat and freeze.
- Fruit mix: a few cubes with blueberries or a slice of banana.
Other fruits dogs can and can’t eat
Safe in moderation: bananas, mango, pineapple, peaches (no pit), apples (no core), blueberries, strawberries, cantaloupe.
Never feed: grapes and raisins, which can cause kidney failure.
Look up any food in our “Can my dog eat this?” food checker.
Related guides and tools
- Can my dog eat this? Food checker
- Can dogs eat grapes? (No: what to do)
- Dog food calculator: daily calories
- Can dogs eat pineapple?
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat watermelon rind?
It’s best not to. The rind isn’t toxic, but it’s tough and hard to digest, and swallowed pieces can cause stomach upset or even an intestinal blockage, especially in small dogs. Cut the flesh off the rind before serving.
Can dogs eat watermelon seeds?
Avoid them. One or two swallowed seeds usually pass without problems, but several can cause a blockage, especially in small dogs. Use seedless watermelon (the small white seeds are fine) or pick out the black seeds.
Can puppies eat watermelon?
Yes, a few small, seedless pieces are fine for most puppies once they’re eating solid food. Their stomachs are sensitive, so start with one or two pieces and watch for loose stools.
Is watermelon good for dogs on hot days?
Yes. Watermelon is about 92% water, so frozen or chilled cubes are a refreshing way to add a little extra hydration. It doesn’t replace fresh drinking water, and dogs showing signs of heatstroke need to see a vet, not eat a snack.
How much watermelon can my dog eat?
Keep all treats under 10% of your dog’s daily calories. That’s roughly a few small cubes for a small dog, up to a cup of cubes for a large dog. A cup of watermelon has about 46 calories.
Can dogs with diabetes eat watermelon?
Watermelon contains natural sugar, so ask your vet first. If they agree, keep portions very small and count them in your dog’s daily food.
Note: This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Some links may be affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.Written with AI assistance. Editorial review in progress. Last updated: . How we create our content
