Can your dog eat a strawberry? Here's how to safely feed your pet the fruit.
When traditional dog biscuits and bones aren't exciting your pup anymore, it could be time to try out another snack.
Some "human foods" are safe for your dog to consume, including eggs, mangoes and watermelon. Others are off-limits, such as grapes and chocolate, as they could cause health issues if consumed by a pet.
Strawberries are a sweet, juicy treat for humans, but what about dogs? The fruit is often considered a "superfood" due to its health benefits and high content of vitamins and antioxidants. But could feeding your pup strawberries put them at risk of a "berry" bad time?
Before you share a strawberry with your dog, it's important to know how it can fit safely into their diet.
Can dogs eat strawberries?
Yes, dogs can eat strawberries, the American Kennel Club reports. The fruit is not toxic to dogs, according to PetMD.
There are precautions, however, to take when feeding your pet strawberries. The fruit has a high sugar content, so be sure to substitute it as a treat only in moderation, PetMD advises. Consuming too much sugar can lead to health issues in dogs, such as dental problems, obesity and diabetes.
Eating too many strawberries can also upset your dog's stomach, PetMD warns. And if they consume any part of the leaves or stems, it could lead to vomiting or diarrhea.
Never feed your pet canned strawberries or strawberries in syrup since they often contain even more sugar and might have added sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, the American Kennel Club recommends.
Health benefits of strawberries
Strawberries are full of antioxidants and are high in vitamin C and fiber, according to the American Kennel Club. The fruit also contains Omega-3, which benefits skin and coat health.
Feeding your dog strawberries can curb the aging process, strengthen the immune system and help manage weight gain, the American Kennel Club reports. Strawberries can also whiten your dog’s teeth, according to Purina.
How to feed your dog strawberries safely
Always consult your veterinarian before giving your dog human food. They can tell you what is an appropriate amount for your dog and advise if any underlying health conditions could impact their diet.
The American Kennel Club advises to thoroughly wash the strawberries to remove any pesticides or herbicides. If available, give your dog organic strawberries that were not sprayed.
Cut the strawberries into small pieces or mash them up to avoid choking.
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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Can dogs eat strawberries? How to safely feed your pet the fruit
