Avocado tree

The avocado and your dog

When it comes to feeding our dogs, we are always on the lookout for healthy and nutritious options. Avocado, rich in vitamins, minerals and healthy fats, may seem like an attractive choice at first glance. But is it really safe for dogs? This article examines the various components of the avocado tree - from the fruit to the leaf - and assesses their safety for our furry friends.

The fruit: a double-edged sword

The nutrient richness

Avocados are known for their high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, which can support the cardiovascular system. They also contain a variety of vitamins such as vitamin K, C, E as well as B vitamins and minerals such as potassium and magnesium. These nutrients can also be beneficial for dogs, especially for a shiny coat and healthy skin.

The danger of persin

However, the avocado contains a substance called persin, which is found particularly in the leaves, rind and pit of the fruit, but also in small amounts in the fruit itself. Persin is highly toxic to some animal species, including birds and horses. In dogs, persin can cause gastrointestinal problems in high doses, but the amounts contained in the pulp are usually too small to cause health problems if eaten occasionally.

Leaves and rind: a clear no

Unlike the fruit itself, the leaves and bark of the avocado tree, as well as the pit, are highly concentrated sources of persin. Consuming these parts of the avocado tree can cause serious health problems in dogs, including, but not limited to, heart damage, respiratory problems and even death. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that these parts of the avocado tree are always kept out of reach of dogs.

The pit: a choking hazard

In addition to the toxic risks, the avocado pit poses a serious choking hazard due to its size and hardness. Dogs that play with the pit or try to swallow it can quickly find themselves in a life-threatening situation.