When a hot summer day rolls around, pet owners can turn to a few foods to keep their pooch hydrated including cantaloupe.

Cantaloupe is just one of the many fruits that are safe for dogs to consume, according to Dr. Danielle Bernal, a veterinarian with Wellness Natural Pet Food. This melon is a healthy and nutritious snack, and it's loaded with water, which will help your pet avoid dehydration.

Just like watermelon, cantaloupe is a tasty and water-rich treat for pups, but it should be served with some caution. Before you give some to your furry friend, you should always remove the skin, which can be a choking hazard for dogs.

And no matter how much your pup loves it, cantaloupe is best served as a snack—not a staple. Canines require a diet high in meats and protein. Follow these guidelines to ensure your pooch is getting the food they need:

  • Fruits and veggies should make up about 10-20 percent of a dog's diet to ensure the bulk of his food is coming from clinically proven, balanced sources.
  • If it seems like your dog is always hungry, top their meals with fiber-rich fruits and veggies likes apples and carrots to keep them full.
  • Improve your dog's coat, muscle strength, and overall health by serving them foods high in protein.
Natural foods, Food, Superfood, Food group, Vegan nutrition, Vegetarian food, Produce, Ingredient, Fruit, Plant, pinterest
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Courtney (she/hers) has spent the past 5 years testing everything from reusable straws to standing desks to homemade kombucha kits. A longtime reviewer, deals hunter, and lifestyle writer, she currently heads up the American Kennel Club's product review site Retrievest and previously worked as the Shopping Editor for USA Today’s Reviewed. Additionally, she has covered design and lifestyle trends for Apartment Therapy, Domino, SELF, and more. A graduate of Elon University, she loves telling everyone about what race she’s planning on running next while raving about her favorite running headphones (they’re bone conducting!).