As a dog owner, you are responsible for your dog’s well-being; part of that responsibility is to ensure they don’t ingest things they shouldn’t. Considering how delicious and juicy strawberries are, you’ve probably wondered, “Can dogs eat strawberries?”
The short answer is yes dogs can eat strawberries but in moderation. In fact, it can be a safe and fun treat to share with your feline friend.
However, before you introduce your dog to eating strawberries, there are certain aspects to consider, such as portion control, nutritional benefits, and safety. For this reason, let’s dive into everything you need to know about feeding strawberries to dogs.
Are Strawberries Safe for Dogs?
Strawberries aren’t poisonous or toxic to dogs. In fact, they can be an excellent low-calorie, healthy snack you can give your dog, but don’t give them too many strawberries since this fruit has sugar. Your dog could suffer a stomach upset and make them vulnerable to obesity if they eat too many strawberries.
If you offer strawberries to your dog, choose fresh, organic ones and wash them beforehand. Dried strawberries are safe, provided they don’t contain additional ingredients. Feed your dog dried strawberries sparingly because they are more concentrated compared to fresh ones.
Frozen strawberries are also safe for dogs and can be a much-welcome treat, especially on a hot day. Moreover, they can help clean and strengthen your dog’s teeth.
Cut large strawberries into bite-size pieces to prevent choking and make consumption easy. Never let your dog consume any strawberry-based product with additives like sugar, chocolate, or artificial sweeteners, as they are highly toxic to dogs.
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How Many Strawberries Can I Give My Dog?
Your dog’s size, overall health, and dietary needs will determine the number of strawberries you can safely give them. Generally, limit the amount of strawberries your dog eats to 10% of their daily calorie intake or less.
Regarding the dog’s size, 1 to 2 strawberries are enough for small dogs, 3 to 4 for medium-sized dogs, and up to 5 for larger dogs.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Strawberries For Dogs?
We’ve established that strawberries are safe for dogs; now, let’s explore the health benefits.
a) Loaded With Vitamins
Strawberries contain vitamins C, K, B9, B1, K, and B6. These delectable fruits are especially an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant.
- Vitamin C: This vitamin helps boost your dog’s immunity and helps combat diseases and infections. In addition, it aids bone development and the production of collagen, which helps give dogs vibrant skin and shiny coats.
- Vitamin B1: It supports gastrointestinal function, cardiovascular health, energy metabolism, muscle strength, and the nervous system.
- Vitamin B6: It promotes healthy skin and coat, protein metabolism, and hormone regulation.
- Vitamin B9: Essential for cell development.
- Vitamin K: It aids blood clotting and bone development.
b) Excellent Source of Dietary Fiber
Strawberries are a good source of dietary fiber that helps maintain your dog’s digestive system, supports regular and smooth bowel movements, and prevents constipation. Moreover, it aids weight management, promotes heart health, and regulates blood sugar.
c) Promotes Hydration
You can improve your dog’s fluid intake and help keep them hydrated by feeding them strawberries, as they contain about 90% water. Giving your dog strawberries on a hot day can help avoid dehydration.
d) Antioxidants
Strawberries are loaded with various antioxidants, including flavonoids, ellagic acid, and anthocyanins. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, helping mitigate their effects on your dog’s health. Free radicals damage tissues and cells and are associated with diseases and aging.
In addition, antioxidants help reduce inflammation, promote cardiovascular health, and even decrease the risk of dogs contracting some cancers.
e) Strawberries Contain Manganese
This mineral helps produce collagen that helps build and repair connective tissues, including bones, tendons, and ligaments. Apart from supporting bone development, Manganese helps keep the joints healthy, aids tissue repair, and promotes skeletal development.
f) Promote Dental Health
As your dog chews on a strawberry, the fruit’s texture and its natural acids can help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. Moreover, malic acid found in strawberries removes stains in teeth and helps whiten them.
Note
Don’t use strawberries as a substitute for proper dental care for your dog.
g) Low Fat and Calorie Content
Healthy snacks are always better for your dog than processed ones, and strawberries are healthy. Unlike processed treats that typically have artificial ingredients and added sugars, strawberries contain natural sugars that provide a quick energy boost.
Also, strawberries are low-fat and calorie fruits, making them a suitable treat for dogs susceptible to obesity or those under a weight management regimen.
The Risks of Feeding Dogs Strawberries
Strawberries are healthy and safe for dogs, but beware of the following potential risks and take precautions to curb them.
1. Allergic Reactions
While rare, some dogs may be allergic to strawberries. So, before adding this fruit to your dog’s diet, give them a small piece to check how they react.
Signs of food allergies include vomiting, diarrhea, itching, stomach upset, face rash, and excessive drooling. If your dog exhibits these symptoms after consuming strawberries, immediately stop feeding them the fruit and take them to the vet.
2. Choking Hazard
Bigger dogs won’t have issues chewing and swallowing ripe strawberries. However, small dog breeds and puppies might struggle and even choke on them. Fortunately, you can easily fix this issue— always slice strawberries into small, chewable pieces.
3. Sugar Content
Despite being a healthy treat for dogs, strawberries still have sugars. This can spike your dog’s sugar intake, primarily if you feed them in large quantities. Therefore, although strawberries are healthier than processed treats, monitor the amount your dog takes to prevent improper weight gain.
4. Pesticide Residual
While pesticides protect strawberry plants from pests, weeds, and diseases, the fruits can retain residues from these chemicals. If your dog ingests these chemicals, they could suffer health issues such as gastrointestinal upset.
Remove pesticide residues from strawberries before giving them to your dog by washing them under cool running water for at least 30 seconds. This will also remove bacteria and dirt.
Other Fruits Dogs Eat
In addition to strawberries, other fruits you can offer your dogs include apples, blueberries, watermelon, bananas, cranberries, raspberries, peaches, blackberries, pineapples, and mangos. Do not let your dogs eat grapes, cherries, and avocadoes.
Final Remarks
Although many dogs may enjoy eating strawberries, don’t be surprised if your pooch shows no interest in this fruit. Also, as always, seek the guidance of your vet before adding new foods, including strawberries, to your dog’s diet, especially if they have an underlying condition or are at risk.
Hey there, fellow plant enthusiasts! I’m Rachel, the green-thumbed writer behind Rooted In Garden. With a deep-rooted love for all things botanical, I’ve made it my mission to help you cultivate a thriving collection of houseplants. As a devoted plant parent myself, I understand the joys and challenges that come with nurturing these leafy wonders. Whether you’re a succulent aficionado, an orchid enthusiast, or simply adore all potted flora, join me on this journey as we explore the secrets to growing and caring for our beloved green companions. Together, let’s create a flourishing oasis indoors.