Are strawberries safe for dogs? The short answer is yes, dogs can eat strawberries, and there are a few things you should know before feeding this fruit to your dog.
Strawberries are packed with healthy nutrients that are good for dogs, but like anything good, they are best enjoyed in moderation.
It is not toxic to dogs but it does contain sugar, too much of which can cause an upset stomach.
Strawberries are sweet and delicious, and most dogs will love them as an occasional treat, especially during the warm months when they are in season.
They contain fiber which is good for digestion, and omega-3s which are great for healthy skin and fur, and they are a good source of vitamins C, B1, B6, and K, as well as potassium, iodine, magnesium, and folic acid.
When are strawberries bad for dogs?
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Too much of a good thing is not a good thing. Strawberries contain sugar that some dogs have a hard time dealing with.
If your dog eats too much of it, he may suffer from an upset stomach and suffer some gastrointestinal disturbances.
It’s best to stick to moderation, and you should always ask your vet or nutritionist what portion sizes are right for your individual dog.
If you have a strawberry garden, keep an eye on your dog’s access to it and make sure he doesn’t eat too much, and if you use pesticides or herbicides, don’t let your dog eat that fruit at all.
Canned or processed strawberries, candies containing strawberries, or products containing artificial strawberry flavors are not good for dogs, as they contain double sugar, sweeteners, preservatives, chemicals, and sometimes chocolate or xylitol, which are toxic to dogs.
How should you feed strawberries to your dog?
Always ask your vet before sharing your food with your dog. Some dogs have medical conditions that can be exacerbated by strawberries, and you should always ask your vet or nutritionist about proper serving sizes for your dog.
If you get OK to feed your dog strawberries, be sure to give them fresh, organic berries that haven’t been treated with preservatives, pesticides, or herbicides, and rinse them well.
Strawberries are soft and fairly small, so the risk of choking is minimal, but you may want to chop or mash them especially for small dogs.
You can mix it with your dog’s food for a special treat, use it as a treat during training, or freeze it for a refreshing summer snack.
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