Curious if your pup can snack on those juicy, delightful strawberries? Absolutely! Dogs can munch on strawberries as a delicious treat that also packs some nutritional punch.
In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about feeding strawberries to your dog, including the many health benefits, how to serve them safely, and some frequently asked questions.
As a dog owner myself, I’ve done the research and have personal experience with incorporating this healthy fruit into my dog’s diet.
So, let’s dive in!
Contents
The Nutritional Benefits of Strawberries for Dogs
Strawberries are bursting with vitamins and minerals that can boost your dog’s health in numerous ways:
– High in immune-boosting vitamins C, B1, B6, and K
– Loaded with potassium, iodine, magnesium, and folic acid
– Full of fiber to aid digestion
– Contain Omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin
– Natural enzymes in strawberries can even help whiten your pup’s teeth!
As you can see, this sweet berry packs a nutritional punch. Strawberries are a great low-calorie treat to supplement your dog’s regular balanced diet.
How to Serve Strawberries to Your Dog Safely
Before adding any new fruit to your dog’s regular diet, it’s best to consult with your vet about the appropriate serving size. They can help you determine the right amount of strawberries to feed based on your individual dog’s size, age, and health status.
Here are my top tips for feeding strawberries to your pup safely:
1. Always choose fresh or unsweetened frozen strawberries. Avoid canned or sugar/syrup-packed berries, as the sugar content is too high. Also, skip the chocolate-covered ones, as chocolate is toxic to dogs.
2. Thoroughly wash the berries to remove any dirt, pesticides, or chemicals.
3. Remove the stems, leaves, and tops, as these can be difficult to digest and may cause stomach upset.
4. Chop the strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking, especially for small dogs. You can even mash or puree them.
5. Start with just a few pieces to see how your dog tolerates them. Too many at once may cause digestive issues, such as soft stool or diarrhea.
6. Consider buying organic strawberries if possible to minimize pesticide exposure. Either way, careful washing is key.
7. Mix the berry pieces into your dog’s regular food as a flavor and nutrient boost.
8. You can offer strawberries as a daily treat if they fit within the 10% of calories that should come from treats in your dog’s diet.
Creative Ways to Feed Strawberries to Your Dog
Looking for some fun and delicious ways to incorporate strawberries into your dog’s diet? Try these creative recipes that your pup is sure to love!
1. DIY Lick Mat
Lick mats (or dog puzzle toys for wet food) are a must-have enrichment tool to keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated, especially when they’re feeling bored or anxious. The best part about lick mats is that you can add any safe and healthy ingredients your pup enjoys. Here’s a simple and quick recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries, diced
- Natural, organic apple sauce
- Lactose-free Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Ensure your lick mat is clean and ready for use.
- Divide the apple sauce and yogurt evenly among the sections of the lick mat.
- Top each section with the diced fresh strawberries.
- Serve the lick mat fresh or place it in the freezer for a few minutes to create a longer-lasting treat.
2. DIY Strawberry Yogurt Pupsicles
These refreshing frozen treats are perfect for keeping your dog cool and hydrated during hot summer days. They’re made with simple, dog-safe ingredients and are suitable for most pups in moderation.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, whole or chopped
- 1 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Water, as needed
Instructions
- Blend strawberries and ice cubes in a blender or food processor until smooth and slushy. If necessary, include a splash of water to facilitate blending.
- Evenly distribute the yogurt among the compartments of an ice cube or small muffin tin.
- Spoon the blended strawberry mixture on top of the yogurt, filling each compartment to the top.
- Place the tray or tin in the freezer for at least 1 hour, or until the pupsicles are solid.
Tips
- Select ripe strawberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch, perfect for multi-dog households or for storing extras.
- Use a larger mold, such as a silicone baking sheet, to create bigger treats for larger dogs.
- Only offer these treats to dogs that can tolerate dairy products without digestive issues.
3. Homemade Banana & Strawberry Doggie Ice Cream
This homemade doggie ice cream is a refreshing and nutritious snack that will keep your pet cool and satisfied on hot days. It’s made with just three wholesome ingredients that are safe for most dogs and packed with delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, rinsed and mashed until smooth (use a fork, potato masher, or blender)
- 1 ripe banana, peeled and mashed until smooth and lump-free
- 1 cup plain yogurt with active cultures (no added sugar, flavoring, or artificial sweeteners)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the mashed strawberries and banana until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the plain yogurt, ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Move the mixture to a container safe for freezing or an ice cube tray.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight for a firmer consistency.
- Remove from the freezer and serve the frozen treat to your eagerly waiting pup!
Tips
- Create an eye-catching layered effect by alternating spoonfuls of the mashed banana and strawberry mixture in the container before adding the yogurt.
- Halve the recipe for smaller batches or fewer servings.
- To ensure freshness, place any leftover treats in an airtight container and store them in the freezer. They will stay good for up to 8 weeks.
4. Homemade Strawberry Banana Dog Treats
These homemade dog treats are bursting with the goodness of strawberries, bananas, peanut butter, and oats – a perfect combination to keep your furry friend happy, energized, and satisfied!
Ingredients
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup all-natural peanut butter (without added salt or sugar)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup oats
- a medium ripe banana, mashed (about 1/2 cup)
- 5 ripe strawberries, finely diced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- If the dough feels too sticky and difficult to handle, add a little bit of flour at a time, one tablespoon at a time, and mix it in until the dough reaches a good consistency.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s approximately 1 inch thick. Use cookie cutters or molds to create bite-sized shapes.
- Transfer the cut-out treats to a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- After baking, allow the treats to cool completely before serving them to your dog.
Notes
- Choose all-natural peanut butter without added salt, sugar, or artificial sweeteners (like xylitol); all of these can be toxic to dogs.
- You can keep these homemade treats at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw frozen treats before serving.
- It’s important to chat with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet.
Other Berry Good Options
In addition to strawberries, other berries that are safe and healthy for dogs include:
– Blueberries
– Raspberries
– Blackberries
– Cranberries (though some dogs may not like the tart flavor)
However, not all berries get a green light. Avoid feeding your dog berries with pits like cherries or juniper berries, as these can be dangerous. When in doubt, always research a new food before sharing it with your pup.
FAQ
1. How many strawberries can I feed my dog per day?
It depends on your dog’s size. A small dog can have one strawberry cut into pieces. For medium dogs, 3-4 berries are appropriate. Larger dogs can handle up to 5 strawberries. Always factor the berries into your dog’s total daily treat count.
2. Are the white tops of unripe strawberries safe for dogs?
It’s best to slice off and discard the tops and unripe white section, as these can cause digestive upset.
3. Can I give my dog canned strawberries?
No, canned and syrup-packed fruits are too high in sugar and may contain additives like xylitol that are harmful to dogs. Stick with fresh or plain frozen berries.
4. What about strawberry leaves and stems – are those OK?
Nope, it’s best to remove the leaves and stems before feeding strawberries to your dog. While not toxic, they can be hard to digest and may cause tummy troubles.
5. Are strawberry seeds safe for dogs?
Yes, the seeds of a strawberry are totally fine for your pup to eat. No need to remove them!
Final Words
Strawberries can be a delicious, nutritious treat to share with your dog. As long as you prepare them properly, feed them in moderation, and introduce them slowly, your pup can reap the many benefits of this antioxidant-rich berry. Bon appetreat!