The simple answer is: yes. Strawberries make a delicious, nutritious (and low calorie!) treat for most pups. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First and foremost, as with feeding your pup any fruit, moderation is key. The high sugar content in strawberries and other fruits can can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea in some dogs — so it’s best not to overdo it. Stick to fresh or frozen strawberries (no syrupy or sweetened versions), and start out by feeding your dog a very small amount to make sure their tummy can handle it.
Keep reading to learn more about the health benefits of strawberries for dogs, serving suggestions, and tips for what to avoid when feeding your dog strawberries.
Are Strawberries Good For Dogs?
Strawberries aren’t just tasty — they’re also a great source of vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. Here are a few reasons why strawberries are the perfect, healthy treat for dogs:
High in Vitamin C
Strawberries are high in vitamin C, a powerhouse antioxidant that blocks cell damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C is also critical to the growth and repair of tissues, and helps form collagen — which is used to make skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels.
High in Fiber
The high fiber content in strawberries helps dogs feel fuller faster, which can be beneficial for pups struggling with their weight. Fiber also aids in proper digestion, helping to prevent your dog from getting constipated.
Low in Calories
Strawberries are fairly low in calories, which make them a wonderful option for dogs who need to lose weight.
So, next time you’re snacking on some fresh strawberries, share one with your pup — they’ll love getting a refreshing, juicy treat (and you’ll feel good knowing that you’re feeding them something healthy).
How Many Strawberries Can a Dog Eat?
When your dog looks up at you with those adorable puppy eyes, it can be difficult to resist giving them a treat. But, even with healthy treats like strawberries, there is such a thing as too much.
According to the Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's diet.
Typically, one or two strawberries are sufficient for small dogs, while larger breeds can have a few more. Adjust your pup’s serving according to their size, and be careful to not overdo it. Too many strawberries can lead to tummy troubles and diarrhea.
How to Safely Feed Strawberries to Your Dog
So, can dogs eat strawberries? You now know that the answer is yes — but what is the safest way to feed them to your pup?
First of all, be sure to wash the strawberries thoroughly. Then, cut them up into small, bite-sized pieces for easier digestion and to make them less of a choking hazard.
You can also mash up strawberries or puree them and add them to your dog's food, or try cutting frozen strawberries into small pieces for a refreshing treat. Your dog may even enjoy dog treats that have strawberries as an ingredient.
As mentioned earlier, avoid feeding your dog canned strawberries or strawberries in syrup. These options have too much sugar, and may even contain artificial sweeteners that are toxic to dogs, like xylitol.
Whenever you introduce any new food into your dog's diet, it’s always a good idea to talk to your vet first. And when you do begin to give your dog strawberries, start with a small amount first. Watch your pup for any changes in behavior or digestive issues. If you notice anything different, stop giving them strawberries and contact your vet.
Other Fruits for Your Dog
Many fruits make a healthy, nutritious snack for dogs. They can help support your pup’s immunity and metabolic function, as well as help them maintain a healthy weight. Fruit makes a great replacement for high-calorie pet treats — but some fruits are toxic for dogs (like grapes, raisins, and currants, among others), so be sure to do some research first.
Here are some of our favorite, tasty fruits that are both safe and beneficial to feed your dog:
- Fresh, peeled banana slices
- Watermelon (remove the seeds and rind)
- Apples (remove the seeds and the core)
- Blueberries
- Cantaloupe (remove the seeds and rind)
- Mango (peeled and with the pit removed)
As a general rule, It's always best to cut the fruit into small, bite-size pieces, and remove any seeds, pits, cores, stems, or peels before feeding it to your dog. Not only are the skins or cores of some fruits toxic for dogs, they can also be choking hazards.
FAQs
Can Puppies Have Strawberries?
Yes, puppies can eat strawberries — but as with adult dogs, moderation is key. A small piece of strawberry or two won't hurt your puppy, but keep in mind that their gut is more sensitive than that of an older dog. It’s best to limit treats, and to start small when introducing them to strawberries.
Can Dogs Eat Freeze-Dried Strawberries?
Yes, it’s safe to feed your dog freeze-dried strawberries. Just keep in mind that many processed, dried fruits contain additives and preservatives, as well as additional sugars — which can be harmful to dogs. Always check the labels, or even dehydrate the strawberries yourself, if possible.
Can Dogs Eat Strawberry Leaves?
While strawberry leaves aren’t toxic to dogs, they’re bitter and may cause an upset stomach. So, it’s best to remove any leaves before feeding your dog strawberries.
Can Dogs Be Allergic to Strawberries?
It's unlikely that your dog is allergic to strawberries, but there's always a chance they could have an allergy or sensitivity to a specific food. As mentioned earlier in this article, it’s best to start with a really small amount of strawberry at first, then keep an eye out for signs of an upset stomach or skin irritation before increasing the amount.
At Jinx, we're here to upgrade the way you care for your dog by providing holistic nutrition made with thoughtful formulation, real ingredients, and a whole lot of love.