Can dogs or cats eat strawberries?

Strawberries – a delicious, sweet, summery treat! But can you share them with your pet? Are strawberries safe for dogs and cats?

The answer is yes. But there are a few things to be mindful of when offering them to your pet.

The ASPCA lists strawberries as a non-toxic fruit, meaning that they are safe for dogs to try. Strawberries are a great low-calorie snack choice when offered to your dog in moderation.

Before serving, make sure that they are washed and the green tops have been removed. You should also chop them into bite-sized pieces to avoid accidental choking. This is especially important if you have a small dog or puppy - a strawberry could cause serious problems if swallowed whole!

Both fresh and frozen strawberries are fine for dogs, if they are offered plain and unsweetened. Strawberries sprinkled with sugar or covered in cream are not healthy for your dog. Extra calories could lead to weight gain.

Strawberry allergies are rare in dogs, but it is still sensible to offer your pet small amounts at a time to begin with.

Are strawberries good for my dog?

Like many fruits and veggies, strawberries are high in fibre. Fibre helps to aid digestion and can also be helpful for pets prone to anal gland problems. Fibre also helps dogs to feel full, which is helpful if you are watching their weight.

Strawberries contain high levels of antioxidants. These have a variety of potential benefits in people but more research is needed into their effects on canine health.

Strawberries also contain high levels of vitamin C which is great for humans and guinea pigs. But interestingly, dogs don’t require Vitamin C in their diet. Like many other animals, they can actually manufacture their own. But it won’t do them any harm to have a little extra now and then.

This fruit is also a rich source of manganese, potassium and folate (vitamin B9).

It’s important to note that most vets would recommend sticking to your dog's normal, complete commercial pet food as much as possible. This will give them all their essential nutrients, so there shouldn’t be a need to supplement them with other food. Strawberries are fine as an occasional snack but shouldn’t take the place of their normal diet.

How many strawberries can I give my dog?

Strawberries are healthy when given in moderation. Too many fruits or veggies could lead to tummy troubles or an unbalanced diet. Strawberries are also high in natural sugars. Fruit and vegetables, like strawberries, should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily diet.

What to do if your dog eats too many strawberries

What if my dog eats too many strawberries? Well luckily, strawberries are not toxic but eating too many could lead to mild tummy troubles like vomiting and diarrhoea. If your dog has eaten lots of strawberries, stop them from eating any more and keep a close eye on them.

Most dogs will be ok, but if your pet shows any signs of ill health, then speak to your vet for advice.

Can my dog eat strawberry leaves?

Strawberry leaves are not toxic for dogs, so they won’t do them any harm if they eat the odd one. They are not as digestible or nutritious as the fruit though, so strawberries are best served without their leaves.

Can my dog eat frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be a refreshing summer snack. Just make sure that they have been chopped to an appropriate size before serving.

Are strawberry stems safe for dogs?

Strawberry stems are safe for dogs, but they are hard to digest and not that nutritious.

Can diabetic dogs eat strawberries?

Strawberries are high in natural sugars so they could cause a problem for diabetics. Diabetic dogs should stick to their normal vet-approved diet to avoid fluctuations in blood sugar levels.