Can Dogs Eat Blueberries?: A Guide to Safe Snacking
Interested in learning more about what your pet can and can’t eat? Check out our ultimate guide to safe and unsafe foods and read on for more information on blueberries.
Can Dogs Eat Blueberries?
The answer to the question, “Can dogs eat blueberries?” is, “Yes.”
Dogs can eat blueberries, but in moderation. Dogs often love the soft moist texture, and many enjoy them as healthy snacks. Blueberries are a good source of antioxidants, fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. They are approximately 84% water and 14% carbohydrates with minuscule amounts of protein and fat.
Health Benefits of Blueberries for Dogs
Blueberries can offer several potential health benefits for dogs when fed in moderation. They’re considered a low-calorie treat and are packed with naturally occurring nutrients that may support overall wellness.
One of the biggest benefits of blueberries is their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body, which may reduce cellular damage and support healthy aging. For senior dogs in particular, antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries are often associated with cognitive support and may help maintain brain health over time.
Blueberries also contain dietary fiber, which can help support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements when fed in appropriate amounts. Fiber can be especially helpful for dogs that experience mild constipation or irregular stools, though too much fiber may lead to diarrhea.
Vitamin C in blueberries may support immune function, while vitamin K plays a role in blood clotting and bone health. Manganese, another nutrient found in blueberries, contributes to metabolism and bone development.
While blueberries are nutritious, they should always be viewed as a supplemental treat, not a replacement for a balanced diet. Dogs receive the majority of their essential nutrients from high-quality commercial dog food, and fruits like blueberries are best used as occasional rewards or enrichment snacks.
More Information on Blueberries
A blueberry is a round-shaped, sweet, soft, blue to purple fruit native to North America. Blueberries are grown from a blueberry bush or shrub. The blueberry bush is a low bush in the wild that gets taller when cultivated. They are classified within the genus Vaccinium which also includes cranberries and huckleberries.
The berry is generated from a bell-shaped pale flower and when the fruit grows in, it starts as green and then changes color to a dark blue-purple color when ripe. Blueberries are in season between May and August.
Blueberries are eaten by themselves or prepared in foods such as pies, ice cream, milkshakes, preserves, candy, wine, or enjoyed covered in chocolate. The flavors and aromas are common in candy, perfume, cosmetics, and many more products.
The Dangers of Blueberries to Dogs
Ingestion of large amounts of blueberries can cause gastrointestinal upset or diarrhea. Blueberry stems and plants can also cause gastrointestinal obstruction. The leaves and plants, while not toxic, are very difficult to digest.
Signs of problems include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, straining to defecate, and/or a decreased appetite.
Please be careful if your dog eats anything blueberry flavored that includes the sweetener xylitol. This can be an ingredient in diet or low-calorie pastries, especially those created for people with diabetes.
Do Dogs Need Blueberries?
There is nothing in blueberries that dogs require on a regular basis. What dogs do need is high-quality AAFCO approved dog food. Learn more about Nutrition in Dogs.
The Safest Way to Give Blueberries to Dogs
The safest way to give blueberries to your dog is to clean them first and only offer a few at a time. Dogs should never be fed the blueberry stem or leaves.
One or two medium-sized blueberries are plenty for a small dog, three to four for a medium-sized dog, and five to six blueberries for a large dog.
Can Dogs Eat Frozen, Dried, or Processed Blueberries?
Dogs can eat fresh blueberries, but many pet owners wonder whether frozen, dried, or processed blueberries are also safe. The answer depends on the form and the ingredients involved.
Frozen blueberries are generally safe for dogs and can be a refreshing treat, especially in warm weather. Some dogs enjoy the crunchy texture, while others may find them too hard. For small dogs or dogs prone to dental issues, it’s best to thaw frozen blueberries slightly or cut them in half to reduce choking risk.
Dried blueberries are not recommended. Drying removes most of the water content, making it easier for dogs to consume too many at once. Dried fruits are more concentrated in sugar and calories, which can contribute to digestive upset or unwanted weight gain.
Processed blueberry products, such as blueberry muffins, pancakes, yogurt, jams, or baked goods, should be avoided. These foods often contain added sugar, artificial sweeteners, fats, or toxic ingredients like xylitol, chocolate, or raisins. Even small amounts of these ingredients can be dangerous for dogs.
When offering blueberries, stick to plain, fresh (or lightly thawed frozen) berries with no added ingredients. Always introduce new foods slowly and monitor your dog for signs of digestive upset.
Can Dogs Be Allergic to Blueberries?
While it is possible for a dog to be allergic to anything, dog allergies to blueberries are rare.