can dogs eat strawberries

Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?

Dog owners commonly ponder about the toxicity of foods. The questions about the safety of different foods increased after learning that certain foods were toxic that led to a lot of press coverage.

The most important toxic foods are Chocolate, Grapes and Raisins, and Peanut Butter. Exposure to the dangers of these foods have encouraged pet owners to ask about other human foods such as can dogs eat strawberries. Learn more about what dogs can and can’t eat in this article: The Ultimate Guide to What Dogs Can’t Eat.

Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?

A strawberry is a a round, oblong, spherical, or heart shaped sweet soft red fruit with a seed-studded surface grown from a strawberry plant. The world production of strawberries is estimated to be nearly 10 million ton/year.
The strawberry plant is a low growing green plant that produces white flowers that yield the strawberry fruit. They are grown worldwide. Strawberries are commonly eaten by themselves or prepared in foods such as pies, ice cream, milk shakes, energy drinks, salad dressings, preserves, fruit smoothies, fruit bars, candy, or enjoyed covered in chocolate. The flavor and aromas are common in candy, perfume, cosmetics, candles, and many more products.

It is believed that the first strawberry was bred in France and came to North American in the mid 1700’s. The strawberry has received recent press discussing that it is not a classified as a traditional “berry” based on the biology of the plant and that it is technically an “accessory fruit”.

The answer to the question, “can dogs eat Strawberries”… the answer is yes. Dogs can eat strawberries but in moderation. Dogs often love the soft moist texture and many enjoy this as a healthy snack. Strawberries are a good source of antioxidants, fiber, and Vitamin C.

The Dangers of Strawberries to Dogs

Ingestion of large amounts of strawberries can cause gastrointestinal upset such as diarrhea. Although uncommon, ingestion of strawberry stems and plants can cause gastrointestinal obstruction. The leaves and plant, 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.

The other danger of strawberries to dogs is the danger of choking – especially when eating a large whole strawberry. Some dogs are not good at “chewing” their food and the danger of choking can occur. This is more common in small dogs.

Please be careful if your dog eats anything strawberry flavored that contains the sweetener xylitol. This can be an ingredient in diet or low calorie pastries and drinks, especially those created for people with diabetes. Learn more about Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs.

Do Dogs Need Strawberries?

There is nothing in strawberries that dogs require on a regular basis. What dogs do need is a high quality AAFCO approved dog food. Learn more about Nutrition in Dogs.

The Safest Way to Give Strawberries to Dogs

The safest way to give some strawberry to your dog is to give small pieces of clean fresh strawberry. Dogs should never be feed the strawberry stem or leaves.

How Much Strawberry Can You Give a Dog?

One medium-sized strawberry cut up is plenty to give a small dog, two to three for a medium-sized dog, and three or four medium sized strawberries for a large sized dog.

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Strawberries?

While it is possible for a dog to be allergic to anything, dog allergies to strawberries are uncommon.