Disclaimer: Always check with your vet on what “human foods” your dog can and cannot eat as information may vary based on their dietary needs and health conditions.
Blueberries are a superfood that’s a great addition to our diet. These little balls are packed with antioxidants, fibre and vitamins which are also beneficial for your dog’s overall health.
Read on to learn more about whether blueberries are good for dogs, how much should they be eating and more.
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Are blueberries good for dogs?
Yes, blueberries are great for dogs in moderation! They’re not only a safe treat but also pack some nutritional benefits for your furry friend:
Despite these benefits, it’s important to feed blueberries to your dog in moderation as it can upset your dog’s stomach due to their natural sugar content.
Are blueberries bad for dogs?
No, blueberries are not bad for dogs! In fact, they’re generally a healthy treat when given in moderation. However, there are a few considerations to ensure they’re safe for your pup:
- Overfeeding: too many blueberries can cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or gas due to their natural sugar and fiber content.
- Choking hazard: For small dogs, whole blueberries might pose a choking risk, especially if they gulp them down quickly.
- Sugar-free products: Avoid blueberries in processed foods (like muffins or jams), especially those containing xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Allergies or sensitivities: Though rare, some dogs may have sensitivities to certain fruits, including blueberries. When introducing blueberries, do so gradually and watch for any signs of digestive issues, like vomiting or diarrhea.
Which is why at Petchef, we ensure that all the ingredients that go into our dog food recipes are made of fresh, clean ingredients only! All the meals tailored for dogs contain:
It’s completely free of preservatives, additives, fillers and grains! If you’d love for your dog to eat the food they were born to eat, come have a chat with our friendly pet nutritionist to find the ideal meal for your pet
Always introduce new foods gradually and consult your vet if you’re unsure about your dog’s diet.
How much blueberry can a dog eat?
The amount of blueberries a dog can eat depends on their size, age, and health condition. Generally, it’s best to offer blueberries as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet. Here are some general guidelines:
- Small dogs (e.g., Chihuahua): 2–4 blueberries.
- Medium dogs (e.g., Beagle): 5–10 blueberries.
- Large dogs (e.g., Golden Retriever): 10–20 blueberries.
Keep in mind that blueberries should only be given in moderation. Too much can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea due to the high sugar content and fiber. A good rule of thumb is no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake should come from treats like blueberries.
How to tell when a dog has had too much blueberry?
If your dog has had too much fruit, they may show signs of digestive upset or discomfort. Some common symptoms to watch for include:
- Diarrhea or loose stools: the high sugar and fiber content in blueberries can sometimes upset your dog’s stomach, leading to diarrhea.
- Stomach discomfort: Your dog might appear bloated, gassy, or have a hard time passing stools if they’ve eaten too much fruit.
- Stomach upset: look for signs like vomiting, gas, or abdominal discomfort (e.g., pacing, whining, or bloating).
- Lethargy: overeating fruits, especially if it’s rich in sugar, can lead to a temporary spike then a drop in energy levels, making your dog seem more tired than usual.
- Allergic reactions (rare): symptoms may include swelling, itching, or hives, though this is uncommon with blueberries.
If you notice any of these symptoms after feeding your dog blueberries, it’s a good idea to withhold food for a while to let their digestive system settle. Always ensure they have access to fresh water. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s best to consult your vet for advice.
How often can dogs eat blueberries?
Dogs can enjoy blueberries as a treat a few times a week, but it’s important not to feed it to them too often due to its high sugar and fiber content. Treats like blueberries should only make up a small portion of your dog’s daily intake—no more than 10% of their total daily calories.
As with any new food, monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset after giving them fruit. If they seem to tolerate it well, you can continue offering it occasionally, but always in small, manageable amounts.
How to feed your dog blueberries?
Feeding your dog blueberries is simple, but there are some key steps to ensure it’s done safely:
- Wash thoroughly: rinse the blueberries to remove any pesticides or dirt.
- Serve whole: for larger dogs, you can serve whole blueberries. For smaller dogs, cut or mash them to prevent choking.
- Use as a treat: offer a few blueberries as a healthy snack or reward during training sessions.
- Observe for allergic reactions: as with any new food, it’s a good idea to start with a small amount and watch for any signs of digestive issues, like vomiting or diarrhea. If your dog shows any negative reactions, discontinue the blueberries and consult your vet.
By following these steps, you can safely treat your dog to some delicious blueberries!
Creative ways to serve blueberries to your dog
Blueberries can be a fun, healthy addition to your dog’s diet, just make sure to serve them in appropriate amounts! As long as they’re not served piping hot, mixed with any oil, sugar and other harmful ingredients like chocolate, herbs and spices, here are some fun ways to experiment:
Frozen blueberries are a great crunchy treat, especially in hot weather. Just freeze the berries on a tray and give your dog a few as a refreshing snack.
You can sprinkle a few blueberries on top of your dog’s regular food, or mix them into wet food. It adds flavor and variety.
Blend blueberries with water or unsweetened yogurt and freeze in ice cube trays for a cool, tasty treat.
You can mash or puree blueberries and mix them into your dog’s food or spread a little on their favorite chew toy.
