Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?
Summer is finally here and with it comes all kinds of fresh fruity goodness.
We all love to enjoy a lovely sweet, juicy strawberry but can our fur babies share in the fun?
The short answer is Yes, your dog can absolutely enjoy these beautiful red berries.
Why Should Dogs Eat Strawberries?
These little red berries are full of nutrients that can benefit your dog.
They include:
Fibre which helps with digestion.
Vitamin C which helps strengthen the immune system.
Enzymes that are good for your dog’s teeth as they munch.
Antioxidants which help reduce the risk of disease.
Potassium which is essential for nerve, muscle, and heart function and helps move nutrients and waste around the body’s cells.
How Many Strawberries Can Dogs Eat?
Strawberries should be given in moderation to your pet. While strawberries are safe to give to your dog, it’s so important to remember that they are a treat and too much of a good thing is bad. They are not a dietary staple and should not be given as a substitute for any meals.
Treats should make up around 10% of your dogs’ daily calorie intake. The high sugar count in strawberries can cause digestive upset, especially if your dog isn’t used to them.
Tips for Giving Your Dog Strawberries
Start Slow
Introduce strawberries to your dog slowly, beginning with just one or two of the berries, and see how your dog gets on.
Preparation is Key
Make sure the berries are washed well with water before hand before plating them up for your dog. Washing the strawberries means that any pesticide residue that could be harmful to your dog will be washed away. Cutting them into smaller pieces to prevent choking is also a good idea for small dogs.
Be Mindful
If your dog is diabetic or has any health concerns please speak to your vet before giving your dog strawberries. Due to the high amount of sugar, this might do more harm to your pet.
Great Strawberry Hack
1) Mix 3-4 cut-up strawberries with 3-4 spoons of natural Greek yogurt.
2) Mash till liquid
3) Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze for a delicious cooling treat for your dog this summer.
Strawberries will boost your dogs immune system while the yogurt will help your dogs overall health.
Conclusion
Strawberries can be a delightful and nutritious treat that you can occasionally give to your dog.
If you give them to your dog in moderation, prepare them well, and run it by your vet first there is no reason your dog can’t enjoy them like you do. The next time you’re enjoying a bowl of strawberries, share a small portion with your furry friend and watch them enjoy these refreshing summer berries.
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