Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?

Fresh and juicy strawberries make a healthy snack for you, but there is a common question asked by pet owners, “Can dogs eat strawberries?”

Strawberry season has no equivalent in terms of joy or happiness. Both humans and pets, especially dogs, enjoy this flavourful cool looking, great fruit.

We all know that humans and dogs have different digestive systems or mechanisms. We are omnivores, and they are obligate carnivores. So, is that good enough to give our dogs strawberries?

Read on to find out all about the effect of strawberries on dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?

The answer is yes. Dogs can eat strawberries. However, there are some instructions you should follow before feeding your dog strawberries.

Fresh or stored strawberries can help dogs stay healthy. You can give raw strawberries to your pets, or you may sprinkle them on their regular homemade or commercial pet food. The nutritional contents in strawberries boost the immune system and slow down aging.

Strawberries are suitable for healthy dogs, but they must enjoy them like any other treat or must be given in moderation. They are not harmful or toxic to dogs, but they contain high sugar content that may lead to stomach distress and gastritis. They should never be replaced as the main meal.

Always ask your veterinary doctor before sharing human foods with your dogs, including strawberries, as some dogs with genetic variations are not advised to have strawberries in their diet, not even a little bit.

Are strawberries suitable for dogs? Or Benefits of Strawberries for Dogs

Strawberries are delicious and sweet. Most dogs will sometimes love them as a treat, especially during the summer season, because multi nutrients present in strawberries provide nourishment to your dog along with pleasant taste.

The following nutrients and vitamins  make strawberries one of the best treats for your furry friend:

• They contain an enormous amount of fiber, which helps in digestion
• Omega-3 fatty acid (good for skin and body coat)
• Vitamin B1
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin K
• Iodine
• Potassium
• Magnesium

Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, killing free radicals in the canine body and saving it from many degenerating diseases such as cancers, eye disease, etc.

Fact: Strawberry is a fruit that is not only tasty but will also make your dog healthier.

When is the permissible level of strawberries for Dogs?

As the old saying goes, “Too much of anything is never good.” The same goes for Strawberries when given to dogs. We all know that dogs are not herbivores. So, avoid giving them too much fiber. Otherwise, it will cause stomach issues in your canine companion.

It’s best to stick to moderation when it comes to any fruit, especially in dogs’ diets. It would help if you always started by giving strawberries in a minimal amount and then increase gradually.

Also, ask your veterinary doctor or nutritionist about the appropriate serving size for your dog. If you have a strawberry orchard, monitor your dog’s access to it and make sure they are not overeating. If you recently use pesticides or herbicides on your strawberries orchard, do not let your dog eat the fruit at all.

Candies or nutritional bars that contain strawberries or products with artificial strawberry flavors are not suitable for dogs. Even processed or canned food is also not permissible. They usually have excessive amounts of syrups, sweeteners, chemicals, preservatives, and sometimes even Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener) or chocolate, which is highly toxic to all canines, especially dogs. If your dog eats this food, they may need an emergency doctor’s visit.

Can strawberries cause any allergies to dogs?

Like almost all foods, there is a risk that your dog may have an allergic reaction to strawberries. But, its chances are meager. In some rare conditions, it can lead to anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal condition.

If you notice allergy symptoms in your dog, including coughing, swelling, sneezing, Dyspnea (difficult breathing), or any other symptoms such as watering eyes and hypersalivation, stop giving your dog strawberries and see your veterinary doctor immediately.

Can Dogs with medical conditions be allowed to eat strawberries?

No, they are not. Always ask your veterinary specialist before sharing human foods with your dog. Some dogs have a medical condition that can be worsened by strawberries, and you should always ask your pet doctor before giving strawberries to affected dogs.

If it’s okay to feed your dog strawberries, make sure you’re giving them fresh, organic berries that haven’t been treated with preservatives, herbicides, or pesticides. Wash and rinse properly with clean water before offering it to your dog.

Can strawberries cause suffocation to dogs?

Strawberries are pretty small and soft, so the risk of suffocation is minimal, but you may chop or mash them, especially when you are giving strawberries to small or toy dogs. You can mix them into your dog’s food or use them as a special treat during training. They may be combined with other healthy fruits for smooth or fruit salads, but again, it is best to consult your veterinarian before sharing extra-human foods with your furry friends.

Are other berries also safe for dogs?

Yes, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and cranberries are some of the safe options for dogs too. Although, cranberries can be bitter and dogs don’t usually like the bitter taste.

But remember, all berries are not safe. Some wild berries like juniper berries or almost all berries with pits can be dangerous to your dogs. So, always avoid them.

Other Fruits Treats For Your Dog:

Veterinarians recommend that the dog treats must be not more than 15% of the whole diet. So, try to maintain that ratio while feeding your dogs. There are other fruits you can offer to your dog that is safe for them and can keep your dog’s health balanced.

 Here are some of them:

• Blueberries
• Frozen bananas
• Mango (Peel it first and then remove the pit).
• Watermelon (Remove seeds).
• Apples (remove core and seeds).

You can offer these fruits separately, or with strawberries, it’s entirely your choice.

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