Dogs eat blueberries too, and those tiny fruits offer some surprising benefits for our canine companions.
Still, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind before sharing blueberries with your furry friend. Let’s explore whether feeding blueberries is safe and healthy for dogs, along with the best ways to add them to your pup’s diet.
Are Blueberries Safe for Dogs?
Yes, blueberries are typically a safe and healthy snack for dogs in moderation. Most dogs eat a few blueberries with no problem, and they offer many nutritional benefits:
- Antioxidants. Blueberries are overflowing with antioxidants, which fight off harmful free radicals. These free radicals can damage your dog’s health and contribute to issues such as cancer and heart disease. By eating blueberries, your dog gets a boost of antioxidants that help keep its cells healthy and strong.
- Fiber. Blueberries are a good source of fiber, which is a vital part of any healthy diet. Fiber helps keep your dog’s digestive system running smoothly, promoting overall gut health.
- Vitamins. These little berries pack a surprising punch of vitamins C and K. Vitamin C is essential for a robust immune system, helping your dog fight off infections. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting, ensuring your dog can heal properly from minor cuts and scrapes.
- Health benefits. Compared to many processed dog treats, blueberries are a guilt-free snack to supplement your pet’s diet. They’re low in calories and don’t have too much natural sugar.
When introducing blueberries to your dog’s diet, start with a few berries at a time. This lets you monitor for any potential digestive upset.
It’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any new foods, especially if it has food sensitivities. They can advise you on the appropriate amount of blueberries for your dog’s specific needs.
Why Do Dogs Love Blueberries?
There are a few reasons many dogs adore blueberries:
- Sweet and delicious. Most dogs have a bit of a sweet tooth, and blueberries offer a natural, healthy sweetness they find irresistible. It’s a tasty occasional treat that satisfies their cravings.
- Refreshing texture. Blueberries, especially fresh blueberries, have a satisfying pop when your dog bites into them. That fun texture adds another dimension to snack time.
- Cool treat. Frozen blueberries are the perfect cool-down snack on hot summer days. Your dog will enjoy the tasty treat and the icy relief.
- Health benefits. While your dog might not understand the science, it may instinctively sense that blueberries make it feel good. The antioxidants, fiber and vitamins give its body a healthy boost.
Are blueberries good for dogs? They have some health benefits and are well tolerated in most pups. Just be careful, as too many blueberries can cause stomach pain.
Get to know the signs of an allergic reaction in case your dog has an intolerance or allergy. Take a look at our article, A Guide to Identifying and Treating Dog Allergies, to learn more.
How Many Blueberries Are Okay for Dogs?
While blueberries are a delicious and healthy treat for most dogs, the ideal amount depends on a few factors:
- Size. A tiny Chihuahua shouldn’t have the same blueberry allowance as a big Labrador. For smaller dogs, just a few blueberries are a delightful treat. Larger dogs can have up to 10.
- Calories. Treats, including dog blueberries, shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. The majority of its food needs to come from a balanced, nutritious dog food.
- Individual dog. Every dog is different. Feed blueberries to your dog one or two at a time and see how it reacts. If it has no issues, increase the amount next time. If too many blueberries cause an upset stomach, cut back. For very small breeds, it’s sometimes safer to cut blueberries in half or mash them to lessen the choking risk.
Looking for other fruity options to add to your dog’s diet? Some other fruits are dog-friendly too. Bananas and watermelon, without the seeds, can be tasty treats in moderation too.
Related article: Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?
How to Feed Dogs Blueberries
Treat your furry friend to the delicious and nutritious goodness of blueberries with these simple tips:
- Go organic. For the best taste and health benefits, opt for organic blueberries. Give them a good wash to remove any lingering residue or dirt. Be careful about feeding your pet blueberries you find in the wild, as some wild berries can be harmful to your dog.
- Introduce them slowly. Start by offering your dog just one or two blueberries. This lets you see how it reacts and helps prevent any potential tummy upset.
- Add to wet food. Sprinkle a few blueberries onto your dog’s regular food for a burst of fruity flavor and added antioxidants.
- Have frozen fun. Frozen blueberries offer a cool and crunchy treat that’s especially refreshing on a hot day.
- Try dried delights. Dogs eat dried blueberries, too. These make great occasional training rewards or a chewy addition to their regular food. Mix them with peanut butter in a puzzle toy for extra fun.
Can My Dog Have People Foods With Blueberries in Them?
While blueberries are safe special treats for dogs, people food containing blueberries often isn’t ideal for our canine companions.
- Can dogs eat blueberry muffins? Blueberry muffins are usually loaded with sugar, fats and other ingredients that aren’t healthy for dogs. Plus, some might contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that’s extremely toxic to dogs. It’s best to offer fresh or frozen blueberries as a treat instead.
- Are blueberries good in yogurt? Use caution. Plain, unsweetened yogurt can occasionally be okay for dogs in small amounts. However, blueberry yogurt often has added sugars and artificial flavors, which aren’t great for your pup. Choose plain, xylitol-free yogurt and add a couple of fresh blueberries on top.
If your dog accidentally eats something it shouldn’t, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Enjoy Blueberries Safely With Your Dog
Blueberries can be a wonderful occasional snack if your dog enjoys them. With a little care and attention, these bite-sized superfoods can contribute to a healthy life for your dog.
Keep your dog safe at all times with a Halo Collar. GPS tracking and the influence of Cesar Millan’s exceptional training methodology make it a must-have item for safety-conscious pet owners.
