Have you ever wondered if you feed blueberries to your dog? The answer is yes! Blueberries are not only safe for dogs to eat, they’re also a great low-calorie treat packed with antioxidants, minerals, fiber, and more. Big and small dogs can safely enjoy this superfood snack, but it’s still worth learning more to know how to keep your dog healthy and happy.
Table of contents:
- Are blueberries good for dogs?
- Benefits of blueberries for dogs
- How to feed blueberries to your dog
- How many blueberries can I feed my dog?
- Other fruits that are good for dogs
Are blueberries good for dogs?
Yes, blueberries are a nutrient-dense, low-calorie treat for dogs. Just like with humans, these delicious berries contain a wealth of nutritional properties that benefit canine health.
Blueberries are generally a healthy snack for all dogs. However, if your dog is on prescription medication, diabetic, or has food sensitivities, check with your veterinarian before adding blueberries to their diet. In some cases, they can also pose a choking hazard to smaller dogs.
Benefits of blueberries for dogs
One of the blueberries’ greatest claims to fame is its high antioxidant levels, which have been shown to improve the health of animals. One cup of blueberries contains roughly 13,000 antioxidants, which fight free radicals that can cause cellular and molecular damage in animals and humans. They also contain Flavinoids, which are compounds found in high particularly concentrations in berries that have been shown to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammation properties.
That’s not all. Blueberries are also packed with vitamins C and K and are high in fiber, all of which support the immune system and overall canine health. As well as being packed with minerals and nutrients, blueberries are made up of 85% water which contributes to good hydration.
How to feed blueberries to your dog
You can feed your dog either fresh or frozen blueberries. Just make sure they are all-natural and do not contain added sugar or additives which can impact your dog’s health. Make sure they are thoroughly washed to remove any contamination before feeding them to your dog. Where possible, organic blueberries are best. Wild blueberries are also fine — just be careful to monitor exactly what your dog is eating, as other wild berries can be poisonous to dogs.
Since blueberries are so small, you don’t need to cut them up. You can offer your dog blueberries as you would a treat, or sprinkle a small amount on top of their daily meal for an added nutrient boost.
Delicious blueberry-infused human foods like muffins, pancakes, and candies are not appropriate for your dog. High levels of sugar can upset stomachs and lead to long-term health issues, while sugar-free goods may contain xylitol which is toxic to dogs.
How many blueberries can I feed my dog?
While blueberries are certainly a healthy treat, you can have too much of a good thing. Since they contain natural sugars, a large number of blueberries can upset a dog’s stomach and negatively impact its health. Consult with your veterinarian on the appropriate amount of blueberries to add to your dog’s diet based on their age, weight, breed, and health. In general, 8-10 blueberries per day is a safe range for most dogs. Remember, treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s complete daily diet, so offer them in moderation.
Other fruits that are suitable for dogs
There are a number of other fruits that are safe and healthy additions to a dog’s diet. These include:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Cranberries
- Cucumbers
- Oranges
- Pumpkins
- Raspberries
- Strawberries
- Watermelon
Unsafe or toxic fruits include:
- Avocado
- Cherries
- Grapes
- Tomatoes
For a full list of dog-friendly fruits and vegetables, consult the American Kennel Club’s complete list.
