Can Dogs Eat Strawberries? Are They Good For Them?
The Health Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Strawberries
Strawberries can actually be beneficial for canines. Not only do they taste wonderful, but these berries boast a high fiber content, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Strawberries are a fabulous alternative for high-calorie treats, which is important when you’re looking for low-calorie foods for your overweight pooch.Great Source of Vitamins, Antioxidants, and Micronutrients For Their Immune System
Strawberries contain B vitamins, Vitamin C, folic acid, manganese, and magnesium to help lift your pups immune system. This is a great way to keep them feeling happy and healthy. Additionally, antioxidants further increase the health benefits of strawberries by fighting free radicals and supporting the overall health of your pup.
©istockphoto/mraoraorGood For Digestion
Strawberries promote healthy digestion in dogs thanks to their high content of water and fiber. This makes them a great way to stay hydrated and keep them regular. Just be sure to not overdo it. Too much could potentially cause an upset stomach and wet stool.Strawberries Can Be Good For Your Dog’s Teeth
Strawberries naturally contain a teeth whitening enzyme. If you combine this enzyme with the impact of the vitamins and antioxidants, you have a recipe for increased oral health for your dog.Serving Sizes: Use the 10 Percent Rule For Dogs and Strawberries
It’s probably not wise to give your dogs more than a few strawberries a day. Another popular way to think about treats, even if low in calories, is that they should never exceed 10% of a dog’s total calories for the day.Risks to Giving Your Dog Strawberries?
As long as you don’t overdo it, there shouldn’t be any reason to worry. However, there is a chance that your dog may be allergic to strawberries. If this is the first time giving your dog strawberries, start by giving him just one to test out his reaction. If there are no signs of an allergic reaction, you can give him a couple more. But if you notice any swelling, coughing, sneezing, skin rash or difficulty breathing, take your pet to the vet immediately.Naturally High in Sugar
As we’ve discussed in other articles about sweets and fruit for dogs, sugar content can always be a risk. Too much might make a dog feel sick, cause diabetic reactions, and cause weight gain.Possible Allergic Reaction
As long as you don’t overdo it, there shouldn’t be any reason to worry. However, there is a chance that your dog may be allergic to strawberries. If this is the first time giving your dog strawberries, start by giving him just one to test out his reaction. If there are no signs of an allergic reaction, you can give him a couple more. But if you notice any swelling, coughing, sneezing, skin rash or difficulty breathing, take your pet to the vet immediately.Avoid Canned Strawberries: High in Sugar and Potentially Contain Xylitol
Stay away from canned strawberries as some contain canning ingredients that could be potentially toxic to dogs such as xylitol (a sweetener found in many processed foods). Canned Strawberries also often are soaked in sugar syrups to help the preservation process in a can. You should also skip strawberries in strawberry-flavored foods, such as yogurt, ice cream, or jams.Fun ways to serve strawberries to your dog
Before you offer your pooch these berries, remove the stems. For smaller dogs, slice them into smaller pieces or mash them to avoid a potential choking situation. If you’re not serving them raw to your pet, choose frozen or dehydrated strawberries. It’s important to note that dried strawberries pack a powerful punch in smaller servings, so give your pooch a tiny bit at a time. Strawberries make a fantastic ingredient for homemade dog treats, as they add flavor to dog cookies and infuse treats with beneficial nutrients. In case you need some ideas, here are some of our dog treat recipes that include strawberries.