Mango?

Why it’s fine in small amounts

Mango flesh is a reasonable occasional treat. The AKC notes it is high in fiber and contains vitamins A, B6, C and E. It is also sweet, so it is best treated as an occasional extra rather than a regular snack, and sugary fruit is not ideal for dogs with diabetes or weight problems.

The pit is the real hazard. The AKC says mango pits are a serious choking hazard and can get stuck in the digestive tract, and that the pit also contains small amounts of cyanide. Always remove it completely. The AKC adds that dogs can technically eat the skin, but it is difficult to digest, so it is best removed.

Stick to plain fresh or frozen mango. Mango sorbet, ice cream, smoothies and sweets often contain added sugar or other unsafe ingredients, and dried mango is best avoided as a concentrated, sugary option.

How to serve it safely

Wash the fruit, peel it, cut the flesh off the pit and chop it into small bite-sized pieces. Throw the pit away where your dog cannot reach it. The AKC says mango should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake, and the AKC's fruit guide advises using it as an occasional treat.

Frozen plain pieces make a cooling summer treat. Skip dried mango, syrup-packed mango and mango desserts, and check with your vet before offering it to dogs with diabetes or those on a diet.

If your dog already ate it

If your dog ate some mango flesh, you may see nothing or mild digestive upset; offer water and monitor. If your dog swallowed the pit, or chewed up the skin and pit, watch for vomiting, belly pain, loss of appetite or lethargy, and call your vet for advice, especially for a small dog.

If the mango came in a product that may contain xylitol or chocolate, treat it as urgent and contact your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (US; fees may apply). Outside the US, contact your local emergency vet. Do not try to make your dog vomit at home.