Mary Allen
Strawberries are safe for dogs: safe! Strawberries are not toxic to dogs, but there are a few things you should know before introducing them to your pet’s diet. Summer ain’t summer unless you bite into a yummy, red strawberry—but is it safe to share a strawberry or two with your canine pal?
Fortunately, the answer is yes! However, as with any delicious treat, there are some basic guidelines you need to follow to keep your dog healthy. Tina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT, Director of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, discusses the safety precautions you should take before treating your dog to this popular summer berry.
ARE STRAWBERRIES SAFE FOR DOGS?
“Strawberries are safe for dogs to eat, and many dogs enjoy them,” explains Wismer. Keep in mind that many farms use pesticides when growing strawberries. So wash the fruit thoroughly before sharing it with your dog (or eating it yourself). In the sink, thorough rinsing of fruit and vegetables should suffice.
If you grow strawberries at home, avoid using pesticides or herbicides and restrict your dog’s access to this area of your yard to protect them from potentially dangerous chemicals.
WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM LOT OF STRAWBERRIES MY DOG CAN EAT?
Wismer recommends feeding strawberries (and all other sweet foods) in moderation. The high sugar content of strawberries can cause upset stomach and diarrhea in your dog. It’s usually a good idea to start by feeding your dog a small berry or two and then watching him for a few hours to make sure his digestive system can handle the berries. As with any other treat, Wismer also recommends limiting the percentage of treats to a maximum of 10% of your dog’s total meal so that your four-legged friend stays in top condition.
WHAT NUTRITIONAL PHYSIOLOGICAL BENEFITS DO STRAWBERRIES OFFER?
Strawberries make a great treat or incentive for your dog. Not only do they taste delicious, but they also contain lots of fiber and vitamins that are good for your dog’s health. Strawberries contain omega-3 fatty acids that help keep your dog’s skin and hair healthy, while vitamins C, B1, B6, and K support a healthy immune system, metabolism, and blood clotting.
CAN DOGS EAT STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM? WHAT ABOUT STRAWBERRY JAM?
While fresh strawberries are fine for your dog, it’s better not to give them additional sweet strawberry treats like strawberry yogurt or strawberry jam. If Grandpa Joe tries to secretly give your pup strawberry ice cream, gently tell him to keep his frozen treat to himself as well.
Stick to fresh strawberries instead. Reduce the size of the strawberries to minimize the risk of choking. Cut into bite-sized pieces, strawberries are also easier to digest. And before you throw the entire range of strawberries at his feet, you should first clean it carefully. Wondering if dogs can eat strawberry leaves too? Try to avoid them. Chewy recommends washing the strawberries thoroughly before eating, removing any stray stems, leaves, or dirt.
If fresh strawberries are not available, you can also offer your dog frozen strawberries. Freeze strawberries to keep them fresh during the Southern heatwaves, or buy frozen strawberries at the store. Just make sure they’re free of ingredients like sugar. Another fun idea? Make a dog-friendly popsicle with water, unsweetened yogurt, and strawberries.
As always, check with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods into your dog’s diet, but ask for strawberries as an occasional treat at your next appointment.