Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?
Ripe strawberries have a lot of vitamin C, antioxidants, and good fiber, which are beneficial for health, but can dogs eat strawberries? Unlike other fruits like grapes and raisins, which are toxic to a dog, strawberries are safe human food to share with your dog.
Nutritional Facts for One Medium-Sized Strawberry
- 4 Calories
- 91% Water
- 9 g Carbohydrates
- 6 g Sugar
- 4 kcal Energy
- 2 mg Calcium, Ca
- 40 G.I. (glycemic index) score
Are Strawberries Good For Dogs?
Although a dog can enjoy these juicy fruits as an occasional treat, strawberries contain high quantities of natural sugar. A dog’s gastrointestinal system can’t tolerate high levels of sugar, as this may result in an upset stomach.
However, that does not mean you can’t share this delicious treat. A ripe, raw strawberry, cut into slices for your dog has fiber to aid digestion. It's a good source of vitamin C for joint health, vitamin B for energy and muscle health, protein to support skin and coat, and magnesium for a healthy heart and bones.
Serving size: One Medium-Sized Strawberry (12g) = 4 calories
| UNIT | NUTRIENT | BENEFIT |
|---|---|---|
| 0.25 g | Fiber | Fiber helps to prevent constipation, diarrhea; plus, it helps to ward off colon cancer while also promoting healthy weight. |
| 0.08 g | Protein | Protein upkeeps a healthy skin and coat and prevents arthritis, inflammation, and allergies. |
| 7.3 mg | Vitamin C | Vitamin C supports the immune system and promotes joint health. |
| 19.1 mg | Potassium | Potassium helps ensure immune support for healthy muscles, fights off cellular damage, and aids in promoting heart health. |
| 1.9 - 6.31 mmol/100 g | Antioxidants | Known to reduce inflammation antioxidants fight off cancer. |
| 0.003 mg | Vitamin B1 | Vitamin B1 provides energy while maintaining nerve and muscle function. |
| 0.006 mg | Vitamin B6 | Vitamin B6 promotes muscle growth and optimal tissue health. |
| 0.28 µg | Vitamin K | Supporting blood-clotting Vitamin K also helps with bone development. |
| 0.37 µg | Folate | Folate helps metabolize amino acids while retaining the integrity of your dog’s cell membranes. |
| 1.6 mg | Magnesium | Magnesium supports heart health, muscle contraction and healthy bones. |
Which Strawberries Are Bad For Dogs? FAQ's
QUESTION: Are there strawberry products that are bad for dogs?
ANSWER: A dog shouldn’t eat processed strawberries, or any fruit with artificial sweeteners, sugar, or syrup.
Dogs Should Avoid These Foods with Strawberries
- Chocolate covered strawberries
- Strawberry or fruit cakes
- Canned strawberries
- Canned strawberry juices or powders
- Strawberry energy drink
- Strawberry jam, jelly, spread, preserves
- Baked goods
- Some vegetable drinks
- Salad dressings
- Fruit snacks and bars
- Cereals
Dog-Friendly Strawberry Recipes
QUESTION: Can dogs eat strawberries and dog-friendly strawberry recipes?
ANSWER: Yes, dogs can eat strawberries, and dog-friendly strawberry recipes, as an occasional treat.
Dog-Friendly Strawberry Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup frozen unsweetened strawberries
- 1/2 banana
- 1/4 Cup water
- Blend all ingredients together.
- Serve one portion as a special treat occasionally.
- This recipe makes 3 portions.
Dog-Friendly Strawberry Popsicle
Ingredients:
- 3 Unsweetened strawberries, tops cut-off
- 1 Spoonful peanut butter (NO xylitol and NO artificial sweetener as these are toxic to your dog)
- Carrot sticks
- Popsicle mold
- Wash strawberries thoroughly to clean off any pesticides or other chemicals.
- Blend peanut butter, water, and strawberries together.
- Pour into a popsicle mold.
- Add carrots as sticks to popsicle mold.
- Freeze for a couple hours.
- Serve one popsicle occasionally as a special treat.
- This recipe makes 3 portions.
Dog-Friendly Dehydrated Strawberry Slices
Ingredients:
- 4 Raw unsweetened strawberries
- Dehydrator
- Wash strawberries thoroughly to clean off any pesticides or other chemicals.
- Cut off the tops of strawberries.
- Slice into quarter inch thick pieces.
- Evenly space out on the dehydrator tray.
- Dehydrate for 8 – 10 hours at 135 F.
- Remove from dehydrator and check that strawberries slices are dry.
- Cool for 25 – 40 minutes, or until completely cooled down.
- Store in a jar, in a cool dry place.
- Serve occasionally as a special treat.
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