The health benefits of blueberries to humans are widely known, and we might be tempted to let our canine friends share our delicious blueberry snacks. But can dogs eat blueberries, and are blueberries good for them?
Can dogs eat blueberries?
Yes, your dog can eat blueberries! Blueberries can be a delicious and healthy snack for your furry companion, and most dogs enjoy eating these delicious berries.
As with all fruits, there are certain precautions we must take when feeding blueberries to dogs. When these guidelines are followed, blueberries are a healthy treat that most dogs will relish.
What are the health benefits of blueberries?
Most dogs love eating blueberries, which is a bonus since these juicy berries are packed full of health benefits.
Blueberries contain high amounts of vitamin C and fiber, both of which are essential in our dog’s diets. They also contain phytochemicals, renowned for their cancer-busting properties in humans.
The biggest health benefit of blueberries to dogs is their high levels of antioxidants. These help to fight free radicals, which cause cellular damage in the body tissues. It is also thought that blueberries can help to slow down age-related degeneration of the brain.
All this, packed into a tiny little berry! And they are low in calories too, perfect for dogs who tend to put on weight easily.
What should I be aware of when offering blueberries to my dog?
The good thing about blueberries is that they are small, and do not need cutting up when fed to dogs. The only exception is smaller dogs that can choke on whole blueberries, so in this case, the berries should be chopped in half first.
Although blueberries are low in calories, they do contain natural sugars. This can cause problems in dogs that suffer from diabetes, so check with your vet first if your dog suffers from this condition.
As with all treats, blueberries should be fed in moderation. It is recommended that treats – including fruits – make up no more than 10 percent of your dog’s daily diet.
If your dog has never eaten blueberries before, start with just a few and monitor your dog closely. The amount can be gradually increased if there are no signs of any adverse reactions.
Wash the blueberries thoroughly before feeding them to your dog, to remove any traces of chemicals such as pesticides.
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