You’ve likely heard just how healthy and nutrient-packed blueberries, raspberries, and other berries are for your health. And if you’ve ever wondered if it’s safe to share your tasty fruit with your doggo, too, this is the post for you. We’re talking all about berries and whether or not you should feed them to your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Cherries?
Juicy cherries are such a treat! They’re packed with healthy compounds that are good for you in a variety of ways. Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system, melatonin supports restful sleep and fiber promotes healthy digestion. Plus, they taste amazing! But, can you feed cherries to your dog?
Cherries are generally safe for dogs to eat — as long as you only feed Fido the fleshy fruit. Keep in mind that cherry pits post a choking hazard for your dog, so take care to keep unpitted cherries somewhere your pup can’t reach. It’s also important to remove the stem and any other foliage because they can contain cyanide, a substance that is toxic and harmful to dogs. That said, some dogs have a tough time digesting cherries, and they may cause stomach upset. Be sure to exercise caution before giving your dog any cherries!
Can Dogs Eat Blueberries?
Blueberries are seriously impressive because they’re absolutely packed with antioxidants that help keep your immune system healthy and prevent age-related health issues. And for Fido, they offer many of the same benefits, which is good news because they’re completely safe for your pup to eat. Blueberries are absolutely full of phytochemicals and plenty of fiber too, so it’s no surprise they’re often called ‘superfoods.’ Make sure you’re feeding your dog fresh, cleaned berries that don’t contain any stems or leaves, and let your four-legged friend enjoy the little blue berries!
Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?
Mmm, strawberries are a summer staple, but can you share your basket of berries with your dog? Yes, yes, yes! The juicy red berries are completely safe for Fido, and offer some impressive health benefits for your dog. They’re packed with fiber, with helps your dog with digestion and they contain Omega Fatty Acids, too, so they support healthy skin and a strong coat. Many dogs have a sweet tooth, too, and strawberries are a healthy way to give your dog a tasty treat that’s also nutritious.
Can Dogs Eat Raspberries?
These little fuzzy berries are seriously delicious, and they’re safe for your dog. He can chomp on them, just like you can! Raspberries aren’t just a pretty color and a fruit with a sweet taste. They’re also nutrient-dense and incredibly impressive when you consider the fact that they’re packed with fiber, antioxidants, and Vitamin C. They promote a healthy inflammatory response, which is extra important as your dog gets older. And they work to support Fido’s immune system, which is his body’s best defense against health issues!
Can Dogs Eat Blackberries?
This is yet another berry your dog can indulge in! It’s perfectly safe for your dog to consume blackberries. And while these berries aren’t talked about as often as others, like blueberries, they’re just as impressive when it comes to nutrients. Blackberries are also packed with antioxidants that support a healthy immune system and promote a healthy inflammatory response. Plus, they’re a bit sweeter than some of the pet-safe fruit on this list, so your dog will likely love taking a bite of a blackberry!
Can Dogs Eat Cranberries?
Spoiler alert, dogs CAN eat cranberries. And not only are they safe for Fido, but they’re also one amazing ingredient that is healthy to reach for. Cranberries are tart in taste and crisp to eat when fresh, the perfect little snack for your dog. Especially if you want to add natural urinary support to Fido’s diet. They’re packed with phytonutrients that help keep your pup healthy and are applauded because they can help fight urinary health issues. And, if you don’t have fresh cranberries on hand, Fido can indulge in dried fruit, too. Bake ‘craisins’ into your dog’s favorite treats for a little extra fiber and a nutrient boost!
What To Keep In Mind Before Feeding Berries To Your Dog
Before you give your dog a bowlful of berries, it’s important to note that not all dogs like fruit! Some turn up their noses at the texture, and that’s totally fine. You don’t love every ingredient you try, either! Other pup have sensitive tummies, and won’t do well eating large quantities of these fiber-filled fruits. Be cautious when giving your dog berries if this is the case. Here are some other things to keep in mind:
Avoid Canned Berries
Before you offer your pup some blueberries or a few cherries, keep in mind that you should only feed Fido fresh or gently dehydrated fruit. It’s best to avoid canned berries because they likely contain lots of added sugar and preservatives. And some dried fruit is packed with sugars too! Your dog definitely doesn’t need the added sugar and some artificial preservatives can be harmful to your dog. Stick to the fresh stuff if you want to add berries to your dog’s diet!
Introduce New Ingredients Slowly
As with any new ingredient, introduce berries to your dog slowly. Let him take a little taste or try just one berry at a time. This way, you can monitor your dog and make sure this new food isn’t going to upset his gut before he eats a whole bowlful!
Check With Your Vet
Discuss any changes to your dog’s diet with your Vet! Fruit that might be completely fine for one dog to consume might not be a good idea for your dog and your Vet will be able to give you a recommendation.
PetHonesty Products That Contain Berries
Want to harness the power of berries for your dog by adding a supplement to his diet? Then try the PetHonesty Allergy SkinHealth Food Topper. It’s designed to top off your dog’s food with a little extra nutrition, including antioxidants, fiber, and more thanks to the blueberries included in the recipe! Along with other supportive ingredients like pumpkin, yucca, and probiotics, this blend helps your dog have a super strong immune system to keep him healthy!
Sources:
https://www.thesprucepets.com/can-dogs-eat-cherries-4846616
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/
https://dogtime.com/dog-health/dog-food-dog-nutrition/59519-can-dogs-eat-strawberries
https://www.eckerts.com/can-dogs-eat-blackberries
