Are Blueberries Good for Dogs? (Solved & Explained!)

Blueberries are a safe treat to give to your dog, whether they are fresh, frozen, dried, or mashed. With just 84 calories per cup of fruit, they may be used as a healthy training reward for practically all dogs, even those affected with diabetes. Still, you should check your veterinarian before administering them.

Continue reading to learn if it’s safe to feed blueberries to your dog, the nutritional benefits, how much you can feed them, and other useful facts.

Are Blueberries Good for Dogs?

Blueberries provide significant nutritional benefits to dogs. Blueberry antioxidants help prevent inflammation and cancer-causing free radicals, such as pollution, in both people and dogs. In dogs, reducing inflammation can slow brain ageing and alleviate arthritic discomfort.

Blueberries also include vitamins C and K, which help to strengthen the immune system. Blueberry fibre can help with digestion and regular bowel motions in your dog, and trace nutrients such as calcium, iron, zinc, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are not usually present in meat, can be found.

How Many Blueberries Can My Dog Safely Eat in a Day?

Typically, a dog can consume 8-10 blueberries each day. However, your dog’s blueberry tolerance will depend on the size of your pet.

Blueberries can be given as a treat, but they can also be given on a daily basis if they are included in your dog’s vet-recommended daily calorie intake. Blueberries should only be fed in moderation since they contain sugar and should not account for more than 10% of your dog’s daily diet.

Start with smaller portions when introducing blueberries to your dog. Give your dog two to three berries every day and keep an eye on them for any unpleasant responses. You can progressively increase to 2-3 fresh or frozen blueberries a few times a day as a snack as long as your dog tolerates berries.

If you observe any changes in your dog’s bowel motions, take a step back. Too much fruit can create loose stool, which is unpleasant for you and your dog.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Feeding Blueberries to Your Dog?

Blueberries are low in calories, making them a healthy snack or training incentive that won’t lead to weight gain or obesity. Blueberries can be safe for dogs with diabetes, however, you should always consult your veterinarian before providing them to any dog with a medical condition.

Blueberries are Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals

Blueberries contain vitamin A, vitamin K, and vitamin C. They work hard to enhance your dog’s immune system, decrease inflammation, and maintain optimal skin, coat, muscle, nerve, and bone density function and quality.

Blueberries are also high in minerals like potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These minerals promote bone formation and improve a dog’s capacity to absorb vitamins and minerals.

Blueberries Are Packed with Antioxidants

Blueberries are well-known for their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are vital in both human and animal diets. Antioxidants have also been shown in trials to reduce the ageing process or cognitive impairment in elderly dogs.

Are There Any Hazards Owners Should Be Aware of When Feeding Blueberries to Their Dog?

Blueberries are heavy in fibre, so overeating can induce stomach pains and diarrhea in your dog. This is especially important to note if your dog has free access to a blueberry bush growing in your backyard.

Artificially flavoured blueberry goods are also unhealthy to dogs since they include chemicals and preservatives that are poisonous to your pet. Furthermore, blueberry-based products may contain sugar and other ingredients that might make dogs sick. Always check the labelling and consult your veterinarian before feeding your dog human food.

How to Feed Blueberries to Your Dog?

Blueberries are often fed to dogs uncooked the bulk of the time. Because blueberries are tiny and low in sugar and calories, they make an excellent training reward. Choose organic blueberries that have not been exposed to herbicides or pesticides, as they can make dogs unwell.

Also, always carefully wash the blueberries before feeding them to your dog. Some dog owners mash blueberries and mix them into their dogs’ food for a tasty health boost.

Can Dogs Eat Frozen Blueberries?

Frozen blueberries are harmless, although they can cause choking in specific dogs, especially tiny breeds. However, you may defrost and mash them before serving them. To avoid choking, larger dogs should be supervised when eating the berries. If the berries are frozen, offering one or two at a time is preferable.

Can Dogs Eat Dried Blueberries?

Dried blueberries have a greater sugar level than fresh blueberries, and some brands even include corn syrup, which you don’t want to feed your dog. Your dog should be alright if they’ve eaten dried blueberries. They can get a stomach-ache if they’ve overeaten, but this should pass quickly. Fresh or frozen blueberries can provide your dog with more health advantages in the long run.

Can Dogs Eat Blueberry Muffins?

Human delicacies containing blueberries, such as blueberry pies, pastries and muffins, should be avoided. Blueberry muffins are a no-no unless they’re made with dog-friendly ingredients. They might cause everything from an upset stomach to pancreatitis in your dog.

What Other Berries Are Safe to Feed Your Dog?

Feeding Blackberries to Your Dog

Blackberries are safe to consume by dogs since they’re low in calories and sugar.

Two blackberries a day is considered the daily limit for a small dog. If you own a medium dog, they can consume four or five blackberries a day, whereas a large dog can consume six to eight. Keep in mind that some dogs are more sensitive than others and eating too many blackberries may result in stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Feeding Strawberries to Your Dog

Strawberries are a safe, low-calorie, healthy sweet treat you can feed your dog that is high in fibre, antioxidants and vitamin C.

If you have a tiny dog, one strawberry chopped into little pieces each day is advised, three to four strawberries for medium dogs and up to five strawberries for larger dogs.