Probably the most frequent piece of advice you've heard since getting a dog is to “never feed your dog human food.” Though this advice is sound, not all human food is harmful to dogs. Dogs can safely eat strawberries as a snack if you're among those who relish eating luscious, juicy strawberries during the summer and feel guilty about not being able to give them to your pet. In case you're wondering “are strawberries good for dogs?”, this post will provide you with all the necessary information and soothe your concerns.
How Many Strawberries Can A Dog Eat?
The amount of strawberries that can be safely consumed by your dog depends on their size. If you have a small dog (Shih Tzu, Pug or Maltese), only give them one or two strawberries every day. For larger breeds (Great Dane, German Shepherd or Doberman), you can give them between 6 to 8 strawberries on a daily basis.
Nutritional Benefits Of Strawberries For Dogs
When you ask yourself, “Can my dog eat strawberries?” it is important to know that strawberries have many nutritional benefits for dogs. According to an article by PetMD, strawberries are loaded with antioxidants, minerals and Vitamin C, which not only boost your furry friend’s immune system but also help their digestion by providing a healthy dose of fiber.
Strawberries For Dogs: Preparation Dos and Don’ts
Small, sweet, and nutritious strawberries are full of healthy vitamins but unless you carefully prepare them before serving, they can cause health issues. The first step before feeding strawberries to your dog is to thoroughly clean them. You can purée the strawberries or slice them into tiny pieces. Never give your dog entire strawberries because they might cause choking. Additionally, you have to remove stems and leaves because dogs' digestive systems may become upset if they consume them.
Canned strawberries are a big NO. Never give your dog strawberries from a can because they contain preservatives and artificial sweeteners which are toxic for dogs. So if your only option is canned strawberries, refrain from feeding them to your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Strawberries as a Frozen Treat?
Yes! Frozen strawberry puree can be a delicious and refreshing treat for your dog. An article published by Zoetis PetCare advocates freezing strawberry puree in ice cubes to have a perfect summer treat ready at all times.
Are There Any Toxic Parts Of Strawberries That Dogs Should Avoid?
The stem and leaves should not be consumed by dogs. While these are not toxic as such, they are difficult to digest and can cause stomach problems for dogs.
Can Strawberries Cause Any Health Problems For Dogs?
Strawberries offer many health benefits for your dog including longevity and weight management. However, since they contain natural sugars, feeding too many strawberries can cause digestive problems. So make sure that you maintain a balance and regulate your dog’s strawberry intake.
Can Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs Consume Strawberries?
It's better to start with a tiny, chopped piece of strawberry if your dog has a sensitive stomach. Give it to your dog, then keep a tight eye on it over the next few days. Gradually increasing the amount is possible if there are no health concerns.
Can Strawberries Be Used as Training Treats?
Strawberries are an excellent choice of treats to be used for training the dog. However, make sure that you reserve this treat for a significant milestone so that the dog also understands the importance of their achievement. Also, you will have to keep an eye on the number of strawberry treats you are offering as it is easy to overdo when you are feeding cut-up strawberries.
Conclusion
Strawberries are an excellent treat for your dog with numerous health benefits. Dogs love strawberries and you can feed them at least 2 every day, maybe more depending on the size of your dog. Always make sure that you prepare the strawberries properly and never feed the stem and leaves. Also, stay away from canned strawberries because when it’s for your dog, fresh strawberries are the only good option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many strawberries can a dog eat?
The number of strawberries a dog can eat depends upon the size of your dog. Smaller dogs can be given up to 4 and bigger dogs can eat up to 8 strawberries every day.
What fruits are dogs not allowed to eat?
Dogs can eat most fruits such as bananas, cantaloupes, apples, blueberries, strawberries, pineapples and pears. They are not allowed to eat tomatoes, avocadoes, cherries and grapes.
What happens if my dog eats a strawberry?
Strawberries are perfectly safe for dogs. However, if they consume the leaf and stems, you should look out for digestive problems and get it checked out by a vet.
Are strawberries safe for dogs? Can dogs have 3 strawberries?
Yes, a dog can safely consume 3 strawberries even if the dog is small in size. Make sure that you cut it into pieces and remove the leaves and stems.
