Are dogs allowed to eat blueberries?
Blueberries, or blueberries, are one of the most popular fruits eaten in Germany. Blueberries are not only delicious, they are also the ultimate superfood, bringing many health benefits for you and your dog.
Let's take a look at how blueberries can be eaten in a basket.
Let's take a look at the many reasons why blueberries are the perfect choice to boost your dog's health.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF BLUEBERRIES FOR DOGS
Blueberries are bursting with vitamins and minerals and have the highest amount of antioxidants in any fruit. That's a lot for such a small berry, but there's more!
They are also rich in fibre, low in calories, contain phytochemicals and anthocyanins. All of this adds up to a healthy effect for dogs of all ages.
This is why blueberries are so healthy
Vitamins:
Vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K are all found in the small blueberry. These vitamins support your dog's immune system, the function and quality of skin, coat, muscles and nerves, and increase bone density.
Vitamins A, C and K are all found in the little blueberry.
Minerals:
Calcium, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium also have a place in the health benefits of blueberries. These minerals are known to support bone growth and the body's ability to use vitamins and minerals more efficiently.
Phytochemicals:
A chemical compound found in plants. They are associated with many health benefits for humans and dogs. Studies have shown that phytochemicals may fight cancer and reduce inflammation in chronic diseases.
Antioxidants:
Blueberries are probably best known for their antioxidant properties, and for good reason. Antioxidants are an essential part of the human and animal diet. They fight free radicals, which are responsible for cellular and molecular damage, and can supposedly slow down the ageing process.
There was an interesting study on antioxidants and cellular damage in sled dogs after strenuous exercise. The study found that adding blueberries to dog food reduced the dogs' recovery time after a strenuous workout. For active dogs, this can be a huge benefit that can increase their mobility as they get older.
* https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5187535/
Anthocyanins:
These are responsible for the blue/purple colour of blueberries. They work with antioxidants to reduce the risk of heart disease, arthritis, diabetes and cancer
Blueberries offer so many health benefits for dogs that many dog food manufacturers have included them in their dog food formulas.
CAN I FEED MY DOG BLUEBERRIES?
Yes! Your dog needs this superfood! Not only are these little berries delicious, but they also have tremendous health benefits for your dog. As long as you portion the treat appropriately and are aware of the issues, your dog should love them and eagerly dance when you offer them. Whether you feed them fresh, frozen, dried or pureed, blueberries are a sure treat for your dog. At only 84 calories per cup, blueberries are a great training treat and also a safe treat for diabetic dogs (but you should check with your vet before offering them).
HOW MANY BLUEBERRIES CAN MY DOG EAT?
As with any fruit or vegetable, it is important to control portions. Treats should only make up 10% of your dog's diet and should be considered an occasional treat. For most small dogs, 10 blueberries is a reasonable amount. Large dog breeds can tolerate more, but keep the 10% ratio in mind.
Because blueberries are small, it is possible for a large dog to devour too many. They tend to eat without chewing, so they can finish the skin before you realise they have devoured it. This can cause a stomachache or be a choking hazard. Small dogs can easily choke on berries if they are swallowed or offered frozen.
Many dog owners grow blueberry bushes in their gardens. Dogs can gorge themselves on the sweet berries, so it's a wise idea to keep them separate from your dog. The bush itself is not toxic to your dog, but if there are pesticides or herbicides on it, they can be harmful to your dog.
Some dogs (about 10%) may show intolerances or even allergies to new foods. Watch your dog for gastrointestinal upset, chronic bloating, itching, ear infections or hives. If any of these symptoms occur, stop offering the berries and talk to your vet.
CAN MY DOG EAT BLUEBERRY MUFFINS?
Muffins prepared for human consumption are not a good option to feed your dog. They may contain ingredients that can cause food intolerances and upset stomachs.
For the same reasons, you should not give your dog commercially prepared blueberry yoghurt, blueberry pie, pancakes or anything with an artificial blueberry flavour.
HOW CAN I FEED BLUEBERRY TO MY DOG?
Fresh blueberries are most commonly given to dogs in their raw form. The fruit is soft and, depending on the size of the dog, does not pose much risk for ingestion. If you prepare the fresh blueberries, you should rinse them in water and inspect them for mouldy berries before offering them to your dog.
Frozen blueberries are safe but can be a choking hazard, especially for small breeds. You can defrost and puree them before offering them. Larger dogs need to be supervised when eating the berries to avoid swallowing without chewing. If the berries are frozen, it is advisable to offer only one or two at a time.
Mashed blueberries are a wonderful way to add them to your dog's food bowl. You can also mix them with other berries such as strawberries, raspberries or blackberries to improve the nutritional balance.
Another delicious treat is blueberries.
Another delicious option is to serve them with other fruits and vegetables in smoothies. Blueberries combined with raspberries, blackberries, bananas, watermelon and cranberries, to name a few options, are a delicious addition in dog-friendly recipes.
These are just a few ideas for feeding blueberries. There are plenty of delicious dog-friendly recipes available online.
Summary: Are dogs allowed to eat blueberries
Absolutely! Blueberries are completely safe and particularly nutritious. They provide your four-legged friend with lots of vitamins and other important nutrients. Because of the low calories, they are very good as a treat for in between meals. Blueberries for dogs are so popular and proven in nutrition that they are even added to dog food. They contain lots of fibre, which aids digestion and is even helpful for gastrointestinal problems. Blueberries are a real boost for the immune system!
