We all like to treat our dogs to something delicious, many types of fruit make a tasty and healthy snack for dogs. Unfortunately, not all fruits are safe for dogs to eat, and some can cause serious health problems. So, if you’ve bought a selection of fruit to share, can dogs eat berries?
Can dogs eat berries?
Many types of berries can be fed safely to dogs, but some berries are toxic to dogs.
Raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries are all safe for dogs to eat, and they are healthy and safe treats that your dog will enjoy.
However, never be tempted to feed any type of wild or unidentified berry to your dog. Many wild berries are toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems.
What are the health benefits of berries?
Most types of berries that are safe for dogs to eat are also packed full of nutritional benefits. Feeding a mix of berries to your dog is a great way to provide them with essential vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients.
Blackberries and raspberries both have powerful antioxidant properties and could help to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Their high fiber levels help to satisfy hunger and they are relatively low in sugar.
Both strawberries and blueberries are packed full of vitamin C and fiber. Blueberries also contain phytochemicals, renowned for their cancer-busting properties in humans.
Cranberries contain high levels of antioxidants, thought to protect against digestive problems such as gastric ulcers and stomach cancer.
What should I be aware of when offering berries to my dog?
Although berries are packed full of many nutritional benefits, they should only be fed to your dog in moderation. Veterinary nutritionists advise that treats should make up no more than 10 percent of your dog’s daily food intake.
Feeding a large number of berries to your dog can cause digestive system problems, such as vomiting or diarrhea. This can be very uncomfortable for your dog, and may require veterinary treatment.
Even though most berries are relatively low in sugar, they still contain more sugar than the dog’s natural diet. High levels of sugar may lead to weight gain and obesity-related illness.
Finally, you should wash all berries before you feed them to your dog to remove any traces of toxic chemicals such as pesticides
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