Can dogs eat strawberry? Everything you need to know
Can dogs eat strawberry?
Yes, dogs can eat strawberry!
Strawberries are a safe and healthy treat for most dogs. If your dog hasn’t tried strawberries, you can give her one or two to see if she likes them.
Are strawberries good for dogs?
Strawberries are a great snack for most dogs, although like all treats, they should be given in moderation. Strawberries have some health benefits – they are rich in vitamin C as well as certain minerals and antioxidants that have been linked to several health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health.
How to feed a dog strawberries
- Wash strawberries thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticide residue
- Remove stems and leaves
- Cut large strawberries into pieces, especially if you have a small dog
- Feed to your dog one piece at a time as a treat
- Or, add a few slices or strawberry to your dog’s usual food
How many strawberries can my dog eat?
Dogs should only be given strawberries in moderation, because excessive consumption may cause a stomach upset.
- Small dogs can have around 1 to 3 small strawberries per day
- Larger dogs can have 2 to 3 medium sized strawberries per day
The nutritional benefit of strawberry for dogs
- High in vitamin C
- Contains the minerals manganese, folate and potassium
- High in antioxidants including anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which help protect against inflammation and improve heart health
- High in fibre
- Contain phytochemicals
- Low in calories
Strawberry recipes for dogs
Strawberry yoghurt “ice cream”
Ingredients:
- Strawberries
- Blueberries and/or banana
- Unsweetened, pure peanut butter (optional)
- 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 strawberries with a couple of blueberries 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 strawberry
Giving your dog too many strawberries 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 strawberries 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 strawberries, 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.
“Can dogs eat…?” series
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