Considered a superfood, are blueberries safe for dogs to eat?
For a tiny fruit, blueberries pack a punch of fresh flavor and sweet juice, as well as a bunch of healthy nutrients. Would it surprise you to know that blueberries are one of the highest natural sources of antioxidants on the planet? It’s true!
If you love munching on a handful of blueberries, you may be wondering if your dog can partake in this superfood. Here’s what you need to know about feeding your dog blueberries and how to include them in your pooch’s diet.
Are Blueberries Safe for Dogs to Eat?
Yes, blueberries are safe for dogs to eat, but there are a few things you should know before you start treating your pooch with a berry or two. An excellent source of healthy nutrients and can give your dog a boost of nutrition, blueberries are great when fed as a snack or included in his daily diet. Packed with antioxidants, fiber and phytochemicals, blueberries provide the same benefits for your dog’s body that they give yours.
Small and soft, these berries don’t pose a choking hazard, plus its seeds are small as well. Always be sure to wash blueberries well before giving them to your dog, as you want to rinse off all of the pesticides that may be on them.
Low in calories, blueberries are the ideal treat for dogs. In fact, some dog foods use blueberries in their formulas as a natural source of key nutrients. Honest Kitchen uses them in their Peck’s cookies, as well as as the Proper Toppers to pack a tasty nutritional punch.
Blueberry-Flavored Doesn’t Always Mean “Real Blueberries”
Blueberries are safe for dogs, but that doesn’t mean that blueberry-flavored foods are safe. Things like candy and other human foods that are blueberry-flavored contain added sugar and other things that could harm your dog. Stick to feeding your dog fresh or frozen blueberries that have been washed thoroughly.
How should I feed my dog blueberries?
For an extra boost of healthy nutrients and fiber, feed your pupper a handful of fresh blueberries as a snack or mash them and mix them into his food. In the summer, freeze blueberries and feed them as a refreshing summer snack. Again, just make sure you’re feeding your dog blueberries that haven’t been treated with pesticides or herbicides. Choose organic blueberries to be safe or wash the berries thoroughly before feeding them to your dog.
Looking for recipes? Here’s some of our favorites!
Blueberry and Blackberry Dog Treats
If you’re planning on feeding your dog anything new (especially something that’s for human consumption), please consult your veterinarian. If your dog requires a low-fiber diet or is prone to food allergies or sensitivities, this is especially important. Blueberries are healthy, but every dog’s digestive system is different—this is why you should be cautious before introducing new foods in your pooch’s meal plan.
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