CAN MY DOG EAT STRAWBERRIES?

NOTE: This article was sourced from a mix of AI channels. It was edited for tone by Mark Drucker, the founder of Love, Dog. To ensure the information is both accurate and presented to our audience without misleading marketing claims, all of the information contained in this article was reviewed—and revised when necessary—by Linda Case, an internationally known science writer, author, canine nutritionist, and dog trainer. She is the founder of The Science Dog and the author of several books, including DOG FOOD LOGIC and FEEDING SMART. You are invited to sign up for one of Linda’s canine nutrition and feeding courses on her website.

Linda Case is also the featured guest on Episode 2 of Love, Dog: The Podcast.

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STORY AT A GLANCE

• Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, which can be helpful for your dog
• They contain some fiber and potassium
• Blueberries contain higher levels of antioxidants
• Apples contain vitamins A and C, and your pup will probably love them!
• Organic vs. conventional strawberries: organic fruit will generally contain lower pesticide residue: strawberries often top the “Dirty Dozen” list of produce with high pesticide levels

Dogs can safely eat strawberries in moderation, making them a healthy and tasty treat! These vibrant red contain essential vitamins and minerals that may benefit your dog’s overall health. However, we urge you to keep in mind that if you’re not feeding your dog a high quality diet (perhaps with a premium kibble or a mix of kibble with freeze-dried raw food as a topping), while your pooch will love the strawberries (and other fruits), they won’t compensate for a poor diet. In this regard, dogs are a lot like humans!

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C. They also contain fiber and antioxidants, which can, along with a good overall diet and other measures, support your dog’s immune system while also helping to fight harmful free radicals in their body.

While strawberries are a nutritious snack for dogs, it’s important to remember that they should be given as an occasional treat rather than a staple of their diet. Like all fruits, strawberries contain natural sugars, so overfeeding can lead metabolic and digestive issues. Be sure to wash the fruit thoroughly and remove the stems and leaves. You can serve them fresh, frozen, or mashed, but it’s best to avoid giving your dog strawberries that have been prepared with added sugars or artificial sweeteners . . . although I’ve been known to give my dogs a piece of my morning toast—or bagel—with butter and strawberry jam! To my thinking, the key is always moderation! Use your best judgement.

As with any new food, it’s wise to introduce strawberries to your dog’s diet gradually and in small quantities. This allows you to monitor for any potential allergic reactions or digestive upsets. If you notice anything that causes you any concern, by all means reach out to your veterinarian.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BENEFICIAL NUTRIENTS IN STRAWBERRIES?

• Vitamin C
• Fiber
• Potassium
• Antioxidants

WHAT OTHER FRUITS CONTAIN ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS AND ARE GOOD FOR YOUR DOG?

• Blueberries – they contain anti-oxidants
• Apples: They contain vitamins A and C, and provide a satisfying and irresistible crunch!
• Watermelon: High water content is good for hydration . . . also satisfying for a dog’s sweet tooth!
• Bananas: Excellent source of potassium and vitamins
• Pumpkin: Not a fruit, but often used like one. Also a good source of fiber

ARE THERE BENEFITS TO FEEDING MY DOG ORGANIC STRAWBERRIES?

• Lower pesticide residue: Strawberries often top the “Dirty Dozen” list of produce with high pesticide levels.
• Potentially higher nutrient content: Some studies suggest organic produce may have higher antioxidants concentrations than non-organic strawberries
• Environmental considerations: Organic farming practices are generally considered  to be more sustainable

Note: If organic fruit isn’t available or affordable, thoroughly washing conventional strawberries may  help reduce pesticide residue.