Jack Russell Terrier (detailed introduction)

　　During the scorching summer, every household eats watermelon, and homes with dogs also tend to share some. Jack Russell Terriers are no exception. Fruit is obviously a good thing, so is it necessary to feed dogs fruit in summer?
　　Do dogs need fruit to supplement vitamin C?
　　The answer is no. Generally, fruit is used to supplement vitamin C, but dogs differ from humans in vitamin C synthesis in that dogs can synthesize vitamin C internally from the meat they eat, or quality dog food already contains vitamin C during production. Therefore, when feeding dogs their main meals, they already receive enough vitamin C without needing extra supplementation. So if owners give dogs fruit only to supplement vitamin C, it is unnecessary.
　　Then what are the benefits of dogs eating fruit?
　　Fruit can be used appropriately to regulate dogs when they are constipated or have poor appetite. This is because the fiber and water content in fruit enhance gastrointestinal function, and the cool, sweet flavor provides a good taste experience for dogs.
　　Under what circumstances can dogs be fed fruit?
　　Fruit should be chosen without seeds or pits; if seeds or pits cannot be completely removed, it is best not to feed the fruit to dogs, especially watermelon and lychee. Some fruit seeds contain toxic substances that, once dissolved in a dog’s stomach acid, may be fatal. Fruits should be used to help regulate digestion, such as during constipation.
　　Fruits suitable for dogs to eat
　　1. Banana: Contains sucrose which promotes beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria in the intestines, aiding bowel movements. Especially recommended for constipated or diarrhea-prone dogs. Apple: Rich in dietary fiber, pectin helps detoxify the body. Note that it contains significant sugar, so avoid excessive consumption.
　　2. Avocado: Contains large amounts of protein & vitamin E, as well as lipids. The unsaturated fatty acids in the lipids help keep dogs’ coats and skin shiny and beautiful. Highly recommended for allergic dogs.
　　3. Apple: Rich in dietary fiber, very helpful for improving dog constipation and intestinal issues.
　　Fruits unsuitable for dogs
　　For example, sugarcane, strawberry, watermelon, papaya, cantaloupe, pear, durian, etc. These fruits generally have high sugar and water content, making dogs urinate frequently and gain weight. They are not recommended for dogs.
　　Precautions when feeding dogs fruit
　　1. Do not feed dogs too much fruit. Some owners feel sympathy when dogs drool beside them and give them lots of fruit, which is wrong! This easily harms the dog’s digestive system and causes diarrhea. Also, trace elements in fruit can damage dog organs; excessive fruit can cause kidney failure.
　　2. Dog must never eat fruit seeds or pits. Never feed dogs fruit seeds or pits such as pomegranate, lychee, apricot, plum, etc. If seeds or pits cannot be removed from fruit with many or large seeds, do not feed it to dogs. Dogs can neither chew these seeds or pits nor digest them. A lychee seed in a dog’s stomach is like a small stone. Moreover, some seeds contain toxins that dissolve in stomach acid when chewed, possibly killing the dog.
　　3. Always wash and peel fruit before feeding raw pieces. If a dog dislikes fruit, juice can be made for them. Dogs naturally like sweet drinks, which can stimulate appetite. Remove peel before juicing and control intake. Improper feeding can harm dogs’ health, so be cautious when feeding fruit.