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Blueberries are a tasty and healthy snack for dogs, as long as they don’t overindulge. Rich in antioxidants and refreshing on a warm day, this is one berry you may consider regularly including in your dog’s diet.
Read on to discover all about the nutritional benefits of blueberries, the correct amount to feed your canine companion, and how they are best served. And if your dog is not a fan of blueberries? Don’t fear! We discuss some delicious and safe alternatives.
Blueberries are a nutrient-dense powerhouse and are one of the healthiest and beneficial fruits there are. They’re high in Vitamins C and K, pack a fiber punch and are also a great source of polyphenols-a type of plant-derived antioxidant.
As they’re so rich in antioxidants, they support a strong immune system and reduce cellular damage- promoting healthy aging. On top of this, they’re hydrating. They make an excellent training treat on hot days, or for dogs who are less keen on drinking water.
NOTE: Fruits like berries are just a snack or treat and should never make up a large part of your dog’s diet. Vets advise that treats are kept to less than 10% of your dog’s calorie intake.
There are a small number of circumstances when blueberries may do more harm than good.
Overfeeding→Watch out for a stomach upset if your dog pilfers too many berries. Within 24 hours, you may notice runny stool, bloating, or even vomiting.
Choking risk. There is a very small choking risk in toy breed puppies, so for these guys, it is worth crushing up blueberries or chopping them in half.
Sugar load considerations. One cup of blueberries does contain about 15g of sugar. For dogs who are over-weight or diabetic, they are better sticking to lower sugar treats, such as chicken or turkey.
Dried blueberries & store products: Fresh blueberries are the best option, as dried blueberries can contain added ingredients including preservatives, flavorings, and even xylitol (a sweetener that is toxic to dogs).
Toy (≤10 lb): For very small dogs, we are talking teeny amounts, or just about 2–4 berries per serving. Offering more can lead to them feeling full and refusing meals.
Small (11–20 lb): 4–6. Again, these little dogs do not need many berries per serving.
Medium (21–50 lb): 6–10. Medium sized dogs can consume about a handful of berries.
Large (51–90 lb): 10–12. Larger dogs are capable of eating quite a bit more than smaller dogs, but we still do not want to over do it.
Giant (90+ lb): 12–16. For very large dogs, we can be more liberal with our sprinkle of berries!
It is best to limit berries to just once or twice a week. Though they are a healthy snack, a dog' s diet should consist mainly of dog food, and a smaller proportion of treats like vegetables, fruits, and meat.
When giving berries for the first time, offer just one or two, and monitor closely for any adverse reactions, such as diarrhea or gas.
Dogs can safely eat blueberries if you follow a few quick and simple steps.
First things first, you’ll want to thoroughly wash the blueberries. Even if they’re organic, they could still contain some dirt and bacteria.
They can be served fresh or frozen, and most dogs tolerate them whole. If you have a very young puppy, it is best to mash the berries.
Feel free to use these berries as little training treats if your pet enjoys the taste. They can also be given on top of meals as a ‘topper’ or frozen into a lick mat so they last longer and can cool your dog down on summer days.
Steer clear of blueberries that are pre-coated in yogurt or chocolate, as they often contain extra ingredients including oils and sugars. Similarly, do not feed your dog blueberry syrups, pastries or jellies , as these will be too sugary for your furry friend.
Top Tip: Blueberries work brilliantly in lots of dog safe recipes. They typically feature in doggy pancakes, dog-safe muffins, and even in fruity ‘pupsicles’.
Yes, puppies often enjoy small portions of berries like blueberries, raspberries and strawberries. It is best to offer them after their puppy food has been eaten, and they are something you’ll want to introduce gradually, to ensure they are well tolerated and do not cause any stomach upset.
For smaller jaws, consider halving or mashing them, so there is no risk of choking. Thankfully, it is only very rare that they would pose a true choking hazard, due to their softer texture.
Although blueberries are quite a healthy snack, they won’t be tolerated well by all dogs.
Diabetic and obese dogs should stay away from sugary fruits like berries, as they can spike blood sugar levels and will affect weight loss diets.
With regards food allergies or intolerances, the main culprits for dogs are ingredients like chicken, grains, and beef. Fruits like berries would rarely pose an issue, but dogs can react to any ingredients. It is sensible to introduce new foods one at a time, and to monitor for any reaction over the next day or two.
Signs of food intolerance would include:
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Bloating
Flatulence
Chronically red and itchy skin
Repeat ear infection
Anal gland issues
Much more rarely, dogs may be dealing with a life-threatening (IgE) food allergy, and symptoms of this can include:
Immediate vomiting
Intense and sudden itching
Hives
Trouble breathing
Facial swelling
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Not all dogs can eat blueberries. If your dog shows any signs of food intolerance, it is best to avoid blueberries in future. Read ingredient labels of any new treats or snacks, to ensure they are not included.
If you are concerned for an immediate ‘anaphylactic’ food reaction, contact your local emergency vet, who will see your dog right away to provide treatment.
Some other lovely options for safe fruits include de-seeded watermelon pieces, apple slices, bananas, and pear.
Never feed your dog grapes, raisins, sultanas or currants. All grapes and their dried variants are highly toxic and can cause kidney failure, due to the tartaric acid.
Fruits with pits such as cherries, peaches and plums are also best avoided, as their pits can lead to gut obstructions.
Finally, orange and lemon peels- especially if eaten in large quantities- can cause stomach upset and potentially more severe symptoms such as weakness and shaking.
Can dogs eat blueberry muffins?
No, things like muffins and pastries meant for humans are not something you want to offer Fido, as they contain too much fats and sugars.
Can dogs eat frozen blueberries?
Frozen blueberries make a yummy snack, but be sure the berries are small enough that they won’t pose a choking hazard.
Can dogs eat blueberry yogurt?
Possibly -If you stick to low sugar natural yogurt that has no extra ingredients, other than the blueberries. Be aware that some dogs are lactose intolerant, and develop gastrointestinal upset from any dairy consumption.
Can dogs eat dried blueberries?
Avoid dried fruit as they tend to contain too much sugar. They also stick to teeth and can cause tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Can my dog eat blueberries every day?
If your dog adores blueberries, it is probably okay to give a little every day. Just be mindful that they should never make up more than 10% of the total diet, and change to a lower sugar snack if your dog is at risk for any medical issues (like diabetes).
Are blueberries toxic for dogs?
No, blueberries aren’t toxic themselves. However, there is a risk of toxicity if you offer mixed fruit that contains raisins, or if the blueberries have added ingredients like xylitol.
Blueberries, fed in moderation, are a delicious and healthy snack that you can share with your dog. Safety first! Always stick to the recommended portion size and try to stick to organic, washed berries.
If you’re concerned your dog is reacting negatively to blueberries or if your dog has any underlying medical issues that may make eating blueberries unsafe, don’t hesitate to contact their vet for medical advice.
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