Blueberries are a popular fruit that many of us enjoy, but are they harmful to our canine companions?
So, can blueberries kill dogs?
Blueberries can’t kill dogs outright, but they can cause digestive upset and other problems in some dogs.
When fed in moderation, dogs benefit from blueberries’ nutritional values, such as antioxidants and vitamins.
However, if you notice your dog has any adverse reaction after eating blueberries, it’s best to consult your veterinarian.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about feeding blueberries to your dog, including the benefits and risks; keep reading to learn more.
Are Blueberries Good for Your Dog?
Blueberries offer several nutritional benefits to dogs, such as antioxidants and vitamins.
The following is a list of nutrients found in blueberries:
Vitamin C – Blueberries are a good source of vitamin C, vital for a healthy immune system.
Vitamin K – This vitamin is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Manganese – This mineral is involved in energy production, antioxidant defenses, and bone development.
Fiber – Blueberries contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which help with digestion in dogs.
What are the Potential Harms of Blueberries to my Dog?
Although blueberries offer many health benefits, there are also some potential risks:
High Sugar Content
The high sugar content in blueberries causes stomach upset and diarrhea in some dogs because dogs have difficulty digesting sugar.
If your dog is prone to stomach problems, it’s best to avoid feeding them blueberries.
Moreover, the high sugar content poses the risk of weight gain and obesity in dogs.
Choking Hazard
Blueberries are a choking hazard for dogs, so it’s essential to cut them into small pieces before feeding them to your pup.
Some dogs are sensitive to change and may experience digestive problems if you switch their food too quickly.
Start with a small amount of blueberries and increase the amount gradually.
For instance, add a teaspoon of mashed blueberries to your dog’s food for a week and then increase it to two teaspoons.
Blueberry Powder
Blueberry powder is a concentrated form of blueberries that contains all the nutrients of fresh berries.
This powder is perfect for adding to homemade dog treats or food.
You can also use blueberry powder to make a healthy smoothie for your dog.
To make a smoothie, add one teaspoon of blueberry powder to eight ounces of water or unsweetened almond milk; then, add a banana or apple and blend everything.
Your dog will love the taste of blueberries, and you’ll love knowing they’re getting the nutritional benefits of this superfood.
Blueberry Supplements
If you can’t find fresh or dried blueberries, give your dog blueberry supplements.
These supplements are made from freeze-dried blueberries and provide the same benefits as fresh berries.
Blueberry supplements are available in capsules or powder form.
You can add the powder to your dog’s food or water or give them the capsules as a treat.
Pureed Blueberries
During summer days, give your dog pureed blueberries as a refreshing treat.
To make pureed blueberries, blend fresh or frozen berries with water.
Add a little bit of honey to sweeten the mixture, but avoid adding too much since honey is high in sugar.
Pureed blueberries are also an excellent way to hydrate your dog on hot days.
Dried Blueberries
Another way to feed blueberries to dogs is by giving them dried blueberries.
These berries are a good source of fiber and nutrients.
Dried blueberries are also easier to chew than fresh berries.
When buying dried blueberries, choose a product that doesn’t contain any added sugar or preservatives.
Frozen Blueberries
On a hot day, give your dog frozen blueberries as a treat.
These berries are refreshing for they help cool your dog down.
To make frozen blueberries, wash and dry the berries before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
