Do you know what your dog is and isn’t allowed to eat? Most dog owners know the basics, but there are always foods that make you stop and wonder.
Today we are tackling whether or not your dog can eat blueberries and other types of fruit.
If you have a dog or you constantly have fruit out or just want to know for sure what your dog should be eating, then read on and find out more!
Dogs are opportunists and will scavenge whatever food they can find. Your dog may live in the home, but that instinct to find food runs strong. Dogs also have a strong sense of smell and are very attentive, so they may eat what they find on the floor or they might go right up to the table and steal it (even if they know that they’re not supposed to).
Fruit, in particular, can really tempt a dog. You may have fruit in the garden that is calling out to your puppy every time that you get out. No matter how they obtain it, dogs are going to try and eat random things– it’s just what they do.
The good news is that many ‘human’ foods are also suitable for dogs. However, there are some foods that dogs should definitely not consume– or consume in moderation.
The short answer is that your dog can eat blueberries. They don’t have any stomach issues with this type of fruit and fresh and frozen berries will offer them health benefits since they are full of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins and minerals. When given in moderation, they can make a great treat.
Try out blueberries and see if they like them. Give them one to start with and see how they do. You can then give them two or three. If you have blueberry bushes growing in your yard, you may find out that your dog likes them when you look out and see them eating away!
Indoor dogs are omnivorous like any other canine and they like to eat a variety of foods. So what else can they eat for fruit? Raspberries, blackberries, bananas, watermelon, and strawberries are all fine for your dog to eat in moderation. They may not like all the fruits equally, but that’s okay!
With bananas, avoid giving them the peel and go light, testing if they like the fiber and carb-rich food and then maybe making it a treat when they’ve been good. The pectin helps them poop, but too much can cause diarrhea. Some cold watermelon chunks (without seeds) may also be appealing to your pup.
Moderation is key and never use these foods as meal replacements and always try them out in small amounts.
Safe Foods for Dogs
- Apples: Remove seeds and core.
- Oranges and citrus: They like tangerines, oranges, and clementines. Remove peel.
- Pears: Remove seeds and core and remove skin (optional).
Fruit Dogs Shouldn’t Eat
- Grapes and raisins: They can kill a dog even days after eating. They may vomit or pee too much. Bring to a vet if this occurs.
- Fruits with pits: Peaches, plums, cherries, and more. Can cause choking and pits contain cyanide.
- Tomatoes, avocado, mushrooms, garlic, and onions.
- Juniper berries
- Various nuts (macadamia nuts especially)
- Dark chocolate
