As a responsible dog owner, you may be wondering: Can dogs eat blueberries?
The answer is a resounding yes. Blueberries are not only popular with us humans, but also with many dogs.
Veterinarians and canine nutritionists have determined that blueberries are safe for dogs. The small fruit contains many antioxidants, phytochemicals and vitamins that are important for the health of dogs and humans. Fresh or frozen, blueberries (and strawberries too) are a nutritious snack for you and your dog. In this article you will learn everything you need to know about the importance of blueberries in dog nutrition and whether your dog can safely eat blueberries.
Are blueberries good for dogs?
Blueberries offer dogs a powerful nutritional bonus. Phytochemicals found in nature can fight cancer. The phytochemical compound of polyphenols supports cardiovascular health. Antioxidants also fight inflammation and cancer-causing free radicals, such as: B. Environmental pollution, in people and dogs. Reducing inflammation can minimize brain aging in dogs and relieve arthritis pain.
Vitamins in blueberries, such as C and K, promote a stronger immune system. Fiber in blueberries contributes to healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. Trace elements such as calcium, iron, zinc, manganese, magnesium and phosphorus, which are not always present in meat, are contained in blueberries. They are often added to commercial foods and treats. However, the amount of blueberries added may not be enough to have a positive impact on your dog's health.
The Benefits of Blueberries for Dogs
Blueberries are not only a superfood to share with your dog, but also an excellent treat. Because they are low in calories and sugar, blueberries are good for training and as a snack for dogs on a diet. Even dogs with diabetes can enjoy blueberries, but check with your vet first.
Are blueberries bad for dogs?
We have the question: Can dogs eat blueberries? answered with a clear yes. Blueberries are generally not bad for dogs. However, blueberries are tiny and can pose a choking hazard, especially for dogs who eat quickly. Dogs that eat everything they find could experience indigestion or an adverse reaction. Be careful if your dog has access to blueberries in a garden.
When consumed in large quantities, the fiber in blueberries can cause stomach upset and diarrhea, and the sugar can cause tooth decay. Wheat flour and sugar in human food, e.g. B. in pancakes and muffins, can lead to gastritis and tooth decay. Artificial blueberry and fruit flavors and sweeteners may contain chemicals that are harmful to dogs. If you have any questions, always contact your veterinarian.
Why some dogs can't tolerate blueberries
Some dogs cannot tolerate blueberries well because they have difficulty digesting certain nutrients or fiber. Other dogs may be allergic to certain substances in blueberries or other berries. If you want to give your dog blueberries, you should test your dog small amounts first to make sure he tolerates them well.
How to feed your dog blueberries
Blueberries are an excellent snack that contains antioxidants, fiber and vitamins. Most dogs tolerate fresh blueberries well and can be one of the new fruit treats alongside blackberries, raspberries and strawberries. Serve them fresh, frozen, dried or mixed with other ingredients.
Even if blueberries are completely healthy for your dog, you should follow the following tips on safety, quantity and preparation.
- Be sure: When feeding anything new, especially human food, you should always consult your veterinarian to make sure the food is suitable for your dog's particular constitution. Some foods that are okay for humans, such as: Some foods, such as chocolate and grapes, can be toxic or fatal to dogs.
- Feed blueberries in moderation: Always feed your dog a 100 percent complete and balanced diet and consider snacks and treats. No matter what food you offer, consider your dog's breed, size, age and lifestyle. Also watch your dog when he eats the berries. Because they are so small, some people believe they are easy for dogs to eat; others consider blueberries a choking hazard.
- Picking and preparing berries for your dog: If possible, purchase sustainably grown blueberries to avoid pesticides and herbicides. For fresh berries, discard old, dried out, or moldy berries. Wash them carefully to remove dirt, germs, manure, herbicide and pesticide residue.
- Introduce blueberries gradually: As with any new food, you should gradually introduce blueberries into your dog's diet. Give him two to three pieces and watch for any adverse reactions such as upset stomach, vomiting, itching, or loose stools. If he's feeling well, give him two to three berries twice a day. Increase your intake to a handful per day or up to 10-12 berries.
How many blueberries are good for a dog treat?
Treats of any kind (including blueberries) should make up no more than 10 percent of your dog's diet. Most dogs can tolerate about a dozen or fewer blueberries at a time, petite dogs even less. Too much food, including blueberries, can cause stomach upset and diarrhea.
As with other training treats, save your dog's favorite treat for last and let him sniff it as a reward for correct responses. Blueberries are easy to carry in a small container or bag, making them good for on-the-go workouts.
Can dogs be allergic to blueberries?
If a dog eats something too much - including blueberries - it can trigger stomach intolerance or an allergic reaction. Signs of intolerance or allergy include excessive licking and scratching, vomiting, diarrhea, hot areas of the skin, and skin and ear infections.
If you suspect that your dog is having an allergic reaction, do the following:
Stop feeding blueberries, limit your dog's access to blueberry plants, and consult your veterinarian.
Are blueberry plants toxic to dogs?
Blueberry bushes are not poisonous to dogs. But the plants are fertilized regularly with 10-10-10 fertilizer containing either ammonium sulfate or potassium sulfate. Although safe in small amounts, exposure to ammonium sulfate can cause lethargy, shortness of breath, and restricted movement in dogs. Rather, choose a fertilizer containing potassium sulfate, which is safe and even added to commercial pet food. The plants can also be affected by insects or fungi. Pesticides that combat these problems can be toxic to dogs. That's why you should separate the shrubs from your dog when using poisonous products. Luckily, there are also sustainable, non-toxic pesticides.
Dogs are opportunistic eaters who will sometimes eat a cookie crumb from the kitchen floor or find fruit in the garden. For this reason, you may need to fence in your blueberries and other bushes so that your dog can't eat them and you can also get some fruit yourself.
Does dog food contain blueberries?
Some commercial blends contain blueberries. The addition of fruits and vegetables mimics dogs' original diet as found in raw food mixes. A traditional diet avoids grains and contains mostly meat, but also grasses and some fruits, vegetables and berries.
Poisonous fruits and other toxic foods for dogs
Grapes and raisins are toxic to cats and dogs and can cause kidney damage, pancreatitis or even death. Dangerous wild berries include holly, groundweed, juniper, and mistletoe. Also make sure your dog doesn't eat the following foods: avocado, dark chocolate, garlic, mushrooms, nuts, especially macadamia nuts, and onions.
Here is a list of other things that can make your dog uncomfortable:
- Stomach Irritants: Citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, grapefruits, and persimmons can irritate a dog's stomach.
- Choking Hazard: When fed individually, blueberries pose a choking hazard if consumed too quickly. Small dogs in particular can also choke on frozen blueberries. Cherry, peach and plum seeds also pose a choking hazard and contain amygdalin. During digestion, this substance breaks down into toxic hydrogen cyanide. If your dog tends to wolf down his food, feed him blueberries or another fruit one at a time.
- Fruits to Avoid: The flesh of peaches and plums is safe for dogs. However, the kernels pose a choking hazard and contain dangerous substances. Some people believe it is better not to feed these fruits to dogs because a dog might devour an entire fruit if it finds it in the garden or in the trash.
What to do if a dog eats a forbidden fruit?
Call your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has eaten grapes, raisins, or another dangerous substance. Explain the symptoms and what you think the dog has eaten, how much, and its size, age, and breed. The vet may ask you to take certain measures to combat the poison.
How do you encourage a dog to eat blueberries?
You need to encourage positive behavior to discourage negative behavior, such as: E.g. eating any food found. Offer healthy food as a reward when the dog does something right. Eat a bowl of blueberries or other food and sound excited. Your dog will be fascinated because what a person eats is always more interesting than what's in their bowl.
Conclusion
We have addressed the question: Can dogs eat blueberries in detail above. Blueberries can be a healthy addition to a dog's diet as they are rich in antioxidants, fiber and nutrients. They can help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and aid digestion. However, there are also potential risks to feeding blueberries to dogs, especially if consumed in large quantities or not properly prepared. Some dogs may also have an allergic reaction to blueberries or experience digestive problems. Dogs should only be given fresh, clean and ripe blueberries. It's also important to stick to each dog's specific needs and preferences, as some dogs like blueberries while others may reject them.
Overall, blueberries can be a nutritious addition to a dog's diet, but it is important to feed them in moderation and in the correct form and to be aware of possible intolerances.
