BOTH SAFEReviewed May 2026
Watermelon vs Honeydew for Dogs
Both watermelon and honeydew are safe dog treats. They are botanically similar (both members of the Cucurbitaceae family) and share most properties: high water content, low calorie, removable rind, removable seeds. The nutritional differences are small.
Nutrition Side by Side (per 100 g)
| Nutrient | Watermelon | Honeydew |
|---|---|---|
| Water | 92 g | 90 g |
| Calories | 30 kcal | 36 kcal |
| Sugar | 6.2 g | 8.1 g |
| Fibre | 0.4 g | 0.8 g |
| Vitamin C | 8.1 mg | 18 mg |
| Vitamin A | 569 IU | 50 IU |
| Potassium | 112 mg | 228 mg |
| Folate | 3 mcg | 19 mcg |
| Lycopene | 4532 mcg | 0 mcg |
Values from USDA FoodData Central: watermelon raw (NDB 09326), honeydew melon raw (NDB 09184). USDA.
When to Pick Each
Pick watermelon when
- Maximum hydration is the goal
- Calorie restriction matters most
- You want the lycopene antioxidant content
- Your dog prefers the milder taste
Pick honeydew when
- You want more vitamin C and folate
- Your dog prefers the sweeter taste
- You want slightly more fibre
- Watermelon is out of season
Preparation Rules Are Identical
- Remove the rind entirely (honeydew rind has the same GI obstruction risk).
- Remove seeds (honeydew seeds are similar in size and risk to watermelon seeds).
- Cube to breed-appropriate size (see calculator).
- Keep within the 10 percent daily treat allowance.
Sources
- USDA FoodData Central watermelon: USDA
- USDA FoodData Central honeydew: USDA honeydew
- AKC on watermelon: akc.org