These low-calorie, antioxidant-packed fruits can provide a wealth of benefits to our bodies, but wouldn’t it be great to know whether dogs can eat blueberries as well?
And the good news is that dogs absolutely can eat blueberries!
Choosing healthy dog treats can always be tricky and, especially when it comes to foods that are not specifically designed for canine tummies, pet owners will often be left thinking “What human food can dogs eat?”
As with introducing your dog to any new food though, even the best dog food you could possibly buy, it’s always recommended that you discuss them with your vet first just in case it may interfere with any medication or condition your pooch may have.
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Are blueberries good for dogs?
Similar to the benefits that humans gain from eating blueberries, canines are also able to take in the fruit’s antioxidants, which can help to prevent cell damage.
Filled with fibre, vitamins C and K, they can be the perfect treat – especially if your pooch is a little on the podgy side and needs to be on a more controlled diet.
Blueberries have also been found to improve night vision and assist with an ageing dog’s mental function.
When are blueberries bad for dogs?
Eating too much of anything very rarely turns out well, regardless of what it is. When it comes to blueberries, as a result of their high fibre content, feeding your dog too many of them can lead to diarrhoea or gastrointestinal upset.
Blueberries also contain a fair amount of sugar. Granted it’s natural sugar, but it’s still sugar all the same and should be given in moderation to avoid causing their teeth to have cavities.
Despite their juicy, fleshy insides, blueberries can have a slightly tougher skin and, given their size, could be a choking hazard. This is especially true of puppies and smaller breeds.
Unlike many other fruits that can be frozen to provide your pet with a cool treat on a hot day, it’s generally recommended not to freeze blueberries as it can increase the risk of choking since it can make them quite hard.
Tips for feeding your dog blueberries
If you find that your canine is getting bored of the best dog treats you collect from your local pet store then blueberries can be a good substitute. There are plenty of recipes you can make for your canine when it comes to homemade dog treats but here’s a few quick suggestions that includes this delicious snack:
- Suggestion 1 – Mash them up to reduce the risk of choking if you have a puppy or elderly dog.
- Suggestion 2 – Sprinkle a handful of blueberries on your dog’s meal.
- Suggestion 3 – With owner supervision, you can on the rare occasion feed your dog frozen blueberries (simply monitor them whilst eating in case of choking).
Blueberries can be a superfood for your super pooch, too. Due to the berry’s size, it’s important to watch your dog whilst they eat this juicy fruit to ensure that they remain safe.
If you’re pondering, ‘Can dogs eat cabbage?’, take a look at this feature that has the answer.
