Can dogs eat blueberries? Everything you need to know
Can dogs eat blueberries?
Yes, dogs can definitely eat blueberries!
Blueberries are a great snack option for most dogs. If your dog hasn’t tried blueberries, you can give her one or two to see if she likes them.
Are blueberries good for dogs?
Blueberries are a safe and healthy snack for most dogs. Blueberries have numerous health benefits – they contain phytochemicals, which help to fight disease, as well as antioxidants, which help prevent cell damage. They are also high in fibre and low in calories.
How to feed a dog blueberries
- Wash a few blueberries thoroughly and remove any stems
- Feed them to your dog one at a time as a treat
- Or add a few fresh or frozen blueberries to your dog’s food
How many blueberries can my dog eat?
Dogs should only be given blueberries in moderation, because too many can cause a stomach upset.
- Small dogs should have only 1 to 3 blueberries per day
- Larger dogs should have a maximum of a small handful per day, depending on their size
The nutritional benefit of blueberries for dogs
- Contain vitamins A, C and K
- Contain minerals calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus
- High in antioxidants
- High in fibre
- Contain phytochemicals
- Low in calories
Blueberry recipes for dogs
Blueberry “ice cream”
Ingredients:
- Blueberries
- Strawberries and/or banana
- Unsweetened, pure peanut butter
- Plain, unsweetened yoghurt
Other requirements:
Ice cube tray, Kong or Licky Mat (or other slow feeder that can hold wet food)
Method:
- Mash or puree a few blueberries with a couple of strawberries and/or a few slices of banana.
- Combine the mixture with a couple of spoonfuls of unsweetened peanut butter and/or plain, unsweetened yoghurt.
- Fill the ice cube tray or Kong with the mixture and freeze for a cooling treat. Alternatively, spread the mixture over a licky mat for longer lasting enjoyment.
The risks of dogs eating blueberries
Giving your dog too many blueberries at one time may cause a stomach upset, especially if your dog is not used to it. Always introduce a new food slowly and monitor for any signs of allergies or other ill effects. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, you can try giving her just a few blueberries to see if she has any reaction.
Too many treats in your dog’s diet can cause health problems over the long term, including obesity and diabetes. Treats, including healthy ones like blueberries, should only comprise 10% of your dog’s diet, and are best avoided altogether in dogs that are overweight, diabetic and/or on a prescription diet. Always consult your vet for nutritional advice if you are unsure.
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