Can Dogs Eat Strawberries: Sweet Treat or Sneaky Troublemaker?

Sharing is caring — but we can’t share everything with our beloved pets! 

Yes, it’s true that our pets get interested in everything we humans eat, whether it’s fruit, vegetables, or chips. As pet parents, we also get tempted to feed them whatever we eat, but this action can be dangerous for dogs. That’s because not everything we eat is safe for dogs and can cause several health risks. This also includes fruits because canines have different dietary needs than us. For example, strawberries are a delicious and nutritious fruit enjoyed by us in this hot summer season, but can dogs eat strawberries, too?

The short answer is yes, dogs can eat strawberries, but only in moderation. This is why, before you begin strawberries to your pup, it’s important to understand the potential benefits and risks associated with this fruit specifically. Today, in this guide, we’ll explore some critical things to consider before offering your furry friend a piece. Also, learn how to feed strawberries to dogs and what to do if your canine eats too much. 

Let’s begin. 

Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?

The answer is yes, in moderation! 

Strawberries are low in calories, high in fiber, and safe, making them a healthy treat for canines. However, you should give strawberries in a limited amount to your dog as they contain sugar. The amount should be less than 10% of their daily calorie intake.

You can also read our guide on fruits and vegetables dogs can eat to get more food choices for your pup. 

Are Strawberries Good for Dogs?

Strawberries are a safe and healthy treat for most dogs. They’re packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and even an enzyme that can help whiten your puppy’s teeth as they munch.

Beyond the occasional sweet treat, strawberries offer some amazing health benefits for your canine companion:

• Low in Calories: Strawberries are a guilt-free way to add variety to your dog’s diet.
• High in Fiber: strawberry slices will keep your dog’s digestive system running smoothly and can help with feelings of fullness.
• Vitamin C: This essential vitamin supports your dog’s immune system, keeping them healthy and fighting off potential illnesses.
• Apart from vitamin C, this fruit also contains vitamins B1, B6, and K. 
• Antioxidants: Strawberries are loaded with antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals and potentially reduce the risk of certain diseases.
• Omega-3: Strawberries will help your pup to get healthy skin and coat.
• High in minerals: This fruit is loaded with minerals like potassium, iodine, magnesium, and folic acid, which promotes a good immune system in canines. 

Can Strawberries Be Bad for Dogs?

Overall, it’s safe to feed strawberries to canines; however, there are a few things to keep in mind when sharing these juicy treats:

One strawberry contains about 1.26 grams of sugar (approximately)! 

• Too much sugar can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and even upset stomachs in some dogs.
• Never give whole strawberries to your pup, as it can cause a choking hazard, especially for smaller dog breeds. 
• Strawberries may contain harmful pesticides, so always wash them properly before giving them to your pooch. 
• It’s vital to check for allergies or sensitivities with strawberries in your dog. 
• It’s always best to start with small strawberry pieces. 

How Many Strawberries Can Dogs Eat?

However, there are some important considerations to remember when feeding your dog strawberries.

The amount of strawberries you can feed to your beloved pooch depends on several factors, including:

• Dog’s Size: Larger dogs can digest more strawberries than smaller breeds.
• Dog’s Activity Level: More active dogs may burn off the sugar more easily, which they get after consuming a strawberry slice.
• Overall Dog Health: Dogs with specific health conditions like diabetes or obesity should avoid this fruit at any cost.

Here’s a table to help you estimate a safe amount of strawberries for your furry friend: 

What If Your Dog Ate Too Many Strawberries?

If your puppy manages to snag a whole bowl of strawberries and starts eating them, don’t panic!! Here are the list of symptoms that a canine face after eating too many strawberries:

• Digestive upset 
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Discomfort

These are minor signs; however, if your dog shows symptoms like lethargy, tremors, or difficulty breathing, you should immediately contact your vet. 

How to Safely Feed Your Dog Strawberries?

Dogs can eat strawberries but are all the parts safe? You still have questions like: Can dogs eat strawberry tops or Can dogs eat freeze dried strawberries or can dogs eat strawberries leaves?

Here are some tips for making sure your dog enjoys this sweet treat safely:

• Never give store-bought strawberries to your dog, as they may contain harmful pesticides and chemicals. So, always wash them and remove any dirt or chemical residue. 
• Instead of giving it in whole, cut this fruit into small pieces or slices to prevent choking hazards. 
• Also, remove the leaves and stems of the strawberry plant, as these can cause digestive problems. 
• Always start with smaller quantities and slowly monitor your pup’s reaction over some time. If your dog is behaving normally and enjoying eating strawberries, you can later increase the amount. 
• You can also offer frozen strawberries to your pup to beat the heat in the hot season. 
• You can add strawberries to their daily diet or mix them with plain yogurt as a snack or fun treat. 

FAQs

Final Thoughts 

Now you have the answer to the question: can dog eat strawberries? Strawberries are nutritious, juicy fruit and a great addition to your dog’s diet. It has vitamins, fiber, and even teeth-whitening enzymes! However, you should always give them in moderate amounts and keep the quantity in mind. Always supervise your pup while feeding strawberries for the first time. Excessive eating of this fruit can cause severe health issues, and your dog might end up in an emergency room. 

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