Can dogs eat strawberries? As with many fruits, the short answer is yes. You can feed dogs strawberries in moderation. Keep reading to learn more about the health benefits of this yummy fruit for your furry friend.
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Can Dogs Have Strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are a tasty, healthy snack for you and your pup. If you’re snacking on some strawberries, you can give your best companion a couple of bites.
This type of berry is rich in nutrients and health benefits for not only you but for dogs too. So, dog owners can provide their doggo with a strawberry or two.
Strawberry Nutritional Facts
According to Healthline, strawberries are excellent because they’re high in water content, low-calorie, and low in fat.
For example, about 3.5 ounces of fresh, raw strawberries contain the following:
- 32 calories
- 7.7 grams of carbs
- 0.3 grams of fat
- 2 grams of fiber
- 0.7 grams of protein
- 4.9 grams of sugar
- 91% water
Strawberries are also rich in vitamins and minerals, and antioxidants. Small pieces of strawberry will undoubtedly be a safe treat for your furry companion.
What Are The Benefits Of Feeding Dogs Strawberries?
First, let’s discuss the many benefits of feeding a dog strawberries. Strawberries are healthy for several reasons.
For example, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), these berries can help slow the aging process, boost the immune system, support weight management, and contains malic acid (to help whiten your dog’s teeth).
In addition, strawberries contain many vitamins and minerals, such as:
- Copper
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Manganese
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Phosphorous
- Potassium
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin B9 (Folate)
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
In a nutshell, strawberries help promote heart health, regulates blood sugar levels, and can help prevent cancer.
Since it’s high in water content, it’ll also help your doggo stay hydrated. Strawberries are an excellent summer snack to keep your dog well-hydrated.
However, even though there’s a lot to love about this fruit, providing your dog with strawberries can also have negative effects.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Feeding Dogs Strawberries?
Strawberries are nutritious in many ways, but this fruit also contains a lot of sugar. As with most foods, too much sugar isn’t a good thing.
When it comes to dogs, if they consume too much sugar, then they could get gastrointestinal upset, which may result in gas, vomiting, or diarrhea.
In addition, your doggo may be prone to obesity or diabetes later in life.
Finally, while it’s not as common, your furry friend may have food allergies to strawberries. An allergic reaction may be noticed if you see your dog scratching a lot, has an upset stomach, or begins drinking a lot more than usual.
These reasons are why it’s best to introduce new foods to your pup slowly and in moderation. Also, monitor your dog whenever they eat.
If you’re unsure whether strawberries agree with your dog. Also, before you try any new foods with your pup, discuss it with your vet first.
Parts Of The Strawberry Your Dog Can And Can’t Eat
Strawberries are relatively small berries. It’s easier to toss a whole berry to your large dog, but did you know that not all parts of the strawberry are safe for your dog to consume? The chart below explains which parts are safe and which aren’t.
| Parts of the Strawberry | Safe for your Dog? |
|---|---|
| Strawberry Top/Leaves | Maybe |
| Strawberry Core | Maybe |
| Strawberry Stem | No |
| Strawberry Seeds | Yes |
When providing this tasty treat to your dog, the strawberry flesh, including the seeds, is excellent. This area is where all the nutrients are.
But can dogs eat strawberry tops? The strawberry’s top, including the leaves, and its core, are not as safe. These parts have some nutritional value and are not toxic to dogs. But these parts can cause an upset stomach. It may be best to cut off the top, cut out the core, and feed only the flesh.
Finally, the stem is not a safe choice. Even though the stems are usually small, they’re not digestible. Therefore, they’ll cause an upset stomach.
How Many Strawberries Can Dogs Eat?
Strawberries should be provided as dog treats. So, unless okayed by your vet, they can eat strawberries once or twice weekly.
When giving this berry to your doggo, keep their body weight and breed size into account.
For example, a toy or small dog breed should only have one medium-sized strawberry at a time. They may have two or three strawberries if the berries are small.
On the other hand, medium dogs can have three to four medium-sized berries, while large dogs can have up to five medium-sized strawberries at a time.
How To Feed Your Dog Strawberries
You can feed your dog strawberries in many different ways. For example, you can cut up fresh, raw strawberries as a quick treat here and there.
Regarding dog training, small strawberry bits are an excellent reward for positive reinforcement.
When giving it this way, thoroughly wash the fruit first. If possible, buy organic strawberries to know there are no herbicides or pesticides on them. Or, you can grow your own.
Fresh strawberries are the best way to feed them to your dog. Cut the berries into smaller, bite-sized pieces to avoid choking.
You can also use strawberries as a dog food topper, cut up into bite-sized pieces, or mashed or pureed into the food.
Another fun way to provide strawberries to your best companion is to puree them and freeze them. Your doggo will have a tasty pupsicle on a hot day.
Always remember to monitor your dog when they eat. Also, when introducing this fruit to them, only give them a bite or two to start. Ensure they don’t react badly to it for 24 hours before giving more.
Strawberry-Flavored Dog Treats
Treats with strawberries as an ingredient are another great choice. You can search for strawberry-flavored treats in dog products. Still, we recommend the following treats:
Dog-Friendly Recipes That Include Strawberries
Alternatively, you can make homemade strawberry dog treats for your furry friend. These recipes are great to try:
Question Corner: FAQs About Dogs Eating Strawberries
Yes, you can give your dog strawberries. If you need to learn more, you can read through the frequently asked questions answered below.
Can Dogs Eat Strawberries Whole?
With the tops cut off, yes. Dogs can eat strawberries whole since they’re not tough fruits. However, please keep in mind the size of the berry and your dog’s size. Large dogs will have an easier time chewing whole fruits than smaller dogs. Also, be mindful of choking hazards.
Can Dogs Eat Strawberry Ice Cream?
No, dogs should not eat strawberry ice cream. These food items typically have too much-added sugar, too much dairy, and artificial flavors.
Can Dogs Eat Strawberry Yogurt?
No, dogs cannot eat strawberry yogurt. This product has too much dairy, sugar, and artificial flavors and colors.
Can Dogs Eat Canned Strawberries?
No. Canned strawberries are not fresh and coated in artificial sugar, sweeteners (xylitol, often found in peanut butter), and syrup. These are not safe for your dog to consume as they could make them seriously sick.
Can Dogs Eat Frozen Strawberries?
Yes, they can. Fresh strawberries that were stored in the freezer are still healthy. You can take the frozen strawberries and mash them into an ice-cold treat or puree them and freeze them into a popsicle for your pup.
What Age Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?
A puppy can eat strawberries, but they are still growing and developing. They have different nutritional needs. So, it’d be best to wait until they’re at least six months or a year old to introduce this new food to them.
How Often Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?
Dogs should have strawberries in moderation. A few berries per week is enough. While this fruit is excellent for dog health, it’s still not part of your doggo’s commercial diet.
Can Senior Dogs Have Strawberries?
Absolutely. Strawberries are soft enough for senior dogs to chew. Also, the high water content may help your doggo stay hydrated if they’re slowing down.
Should You Give Your Dog Strawberries?
Many fruits and vegetables are healthy for all dog breeds. Strawberries are no exception. As long as you discuss it with your vet first, monitor your dog, and feed them this berry in moderation, you’ll notice a health boost in your pup. Plus, your doggo will love it.
Rachel Poli is a content writer and author, but her real job is being a stay-at-home pet mom. Her zoo currently consists of a dog, a cat, two turtles, and two fish tanks. She’s also an avid pet sitter for a few local families, caring for various animals.
After realizing how little information there is for pet sitters on the internet, Rachel decided to start her own animal website. She strives to educate pet parents and pet sitters about the overall care of our furry friends.