Can Dogs Eat Bananas? Benefits, Risks and Portions
Yes, dogs can eat bananas in moderation. They're a healthy, low-fat treat, but they're high in sugar, so keep portions small and never feed the peel.
Sunny · · 3 min read
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. Peeled banana is safe for most dogs as an occasional treat and makes a handy low-fat alternative to processed snacks. Because bananas are high in natural sugar, the key is keeping portions small.
Bananas are cheap, available all year and easy to break into pieces, which makes them a favourite for sharing. Here's what to know first.
Are bananas good for dogs?
A complete dog food already gives your dog everything they need, so bananas are an extra rather than a necessity. In small amounts they offer:
- Potassium, which supports normal muscle and nerve function.
- Vitamin B6 and vitamin C.
- Fibre, which supports healthy digestion.
- Magnesium, which plays a part in many processes in the body.
They're also soft and easy to chew, which can suit older dogs with sensitive teeth.
The risks
Sugar and calories
Bananas are one of the sweeter fruits. Too much can lead to weight gain over time, and a large helping can cause loose stools or wind. Dogs with diabetes or who are overweight should only have banana with their vet's approval.
The peel
Banana peel isn't toxic, but it's fibrous and hard to digest. A dog who eats a whole skin may vomit, and in some cases — especially smaller dogs — the peel can cause a blockage in the stomach or intestines. Peels can also carry pesticide residue. Always peel the fruit and put skins in a bin your dog can't open.
Banana products
Many banana foods made for people aren't dog-friendly:
- Banana bread and cakes: sugar, butter and sometimes raisins, chocolate chips or nuts.
- Banana chips: often fried and coated in sugar or honey.
- Banana-flavoured sweets, yoghurts and sugar-free desserts: some contain xylitol, which can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar in dogs.
See our full list of foods that are toxic to dogs for more ingredients to watch for.
How to prepare banana for your dog
- Peel the banana completely.
- Cut it into thin slices or small chunks — roughly 5 mm thick for small dogs.
- Serve fresh, mash a little into your dog's food, or freeze slices for a cooling treat.
How much banana can a dog eat?
Treats should stay under about 10% of your dog's daily calories. A medium banana contains around 100 calories, which is a big chunk of a small dog's daily allowance. As a rough guide:
| Dog size | Example breeds | Portion (occasional treat) |
|---|---|---|
| Toy (under 5 kg) | Chihuahua, Yorkie | 1–2 thin slices |
| Small (5–10 kg) | Shih Tzu, Pug | 2–3 thin slices |
| Medium (10–25 kg) | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel | 3–6 thin slices |
| Large (25–40 kg) | Labrador, German Shepherd | A small handful of slices |
| Giant (over 40 kg) | Great Dane, St Bernard | Up to half a banana |
Offer banana a few times a week rather than every day, and cut back on other treats on banana days.
Can puppies eat bananas?
Puppies can have small amounts of banana once they're eating solid food, but their portions should be smaller than an adult dog of the same breed. Introduce one new food at a time so you can tell what caused any tummy upset, and stop if you notice diarrhoea or vomiting. Their main diet should always be a complete puppy food — treats shouldn't fill them up. If you're settling a new puppy in, our first-week checklist covers feeding routines too.
Safer alternatives
If your dog doesn't tolerate banana well, try lower-sugar options in small amounts: cucumber slices, carrot sticks, blueberries, or seedless watermelon. Never offer grapes or raisins, which can cause kidney injury.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat banana peel?
No. Banana peel isn't poisonous, but it's tough and hard to digest and can cause vomiting or a blockage in the gut. Always peel the banana and put the skin in a lidded bin.
Can bananas help a dog with an upset stomach?
Bananas contain fibre, but they are not a treatment for diarrhoea or constipation, and their sugar can sometimes make an upset stomach worse. If your dog has tummy trouble, ask your vet what to feed.
Can dogs eat banana chips or banana bread?
It's best not to. Banana chips are often fried and sweetened, and banana bread contains sugar, fat and sometimes raisins, nuts or xylitol, which can be dangerous for dogs.