Can Dogs Eat Quince?

Quince (Cydonia oblonga) is a bright-green, pear-shaped fruit with a hue that’s comparable to a golden delicious apple. It is lumpier, tough, and has a stronger aroma than apple or pear.

Scientifically, it belongs to the familyRosaceae, which also contains pears, apples, and other fruits. Interestingly, it is the only member of the genus Cydonia.

Quince contains a wide range of vital nutrients, including potassium, copper, and Iron. It is also a great source of Vitamin C and other important antioxidants, including rutin and caffeoylquinic acid. It also contains trace amounts of pantothenic acid, thiamine, selenium, niacin, calcium, potassium, copper, and vitamin A.

Its gritty flesh is rich in fiber and tannins, which are known to bind to cancer-causing chemicals in the colon. Tannins also play a big role in protecting the mucous membrane of the colon from diverticulitis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Is Quince safe for dogs?

Yes. Quince is safe for dogs. As aforementioned, quince is a great source of antioxidants, which aids blood pressure regulation, neutralizes harmful free-radicals, and protects your dog against chronic diseases. It also contains potassium and copper, which can go a long way in alleviating arthritic conditions in dogs.  

However, like pears and apples, your dog should only eat the fleshy fruit and not its seeds, leaves or stems. The foliage of this Asian native perennial shrub contains trace amounts of cyanide, which is known to be toxic to dogs.

Besides, while quince fruit is considered to be safe for canines, some dogs might develop allergic reactions. So, if you suspect that your furry friend is suffering from any form of allergic reaction or discomfort after eating quince fruit, consult your vet immediately about possible causes and treatment options.

Lastly, remember that quince fruit is inedible when raw. So, cook it a bit to soften it and to give it a bit of flavor for your dog to enjoy eating it.