What happens if a dog eats too much blueberries?

Yes, dogs can eat blueberries, but as with everything else, only feed these berries in moderation to avoid adverse effects. When fed properly, blueberries can be very beneficial to your dog's well-being.

Blueberries are Nutritious

Veterinarians and canine nutritionists have determined that, in moderation, blueberries are safe for dogs. Blueberries are often included in commercial dog food and treats. They are low in fat and high in vitamin C and fiber. While no conclusive studies have confirmed that blueberries are actually beneficial for dogs, some studies have shown positive effects of feeding dogs blueberries.

Blueberries contain phytochemicals, which are biologically active compounds produced by plants. There are several different kinds of these compounds in blueberries. Phytochemicals act as antioxidants in the system, helping to protect cells against free radicals that cause cell damage. For example, these compounds may help reduce cognitive dysfunction in aging canines. Blueberries have also been shown to have cancer-fighting benefits in humans, which may extend to dogs.

One study was conducted in 2006 by the University of Alaska Fairbanks and published by the National Institutes of Health. In the study, sled dogs were fed blueberries as a dietary supplement while exercising. The results showed that the sled dogs had increased levels of antioxidants in the blood. This may have a positive effect on your pet, offering protection against conditions such as cancer and heart disease.

How Many Blueberries Can Your Dog Have?

These berries should be considered an occasional treat, not a daily supplement. The amount depends on the body weight of your pet. However, 10 blueberries or less should be fine for all but the smallest dog. If a dog eats too many blueberries, the result may be gastric upset and diarrhea.

Be watchful for a reaction the first time you give them to your dog. If your pet has any history of stomach upset or digestive problems, you should not give your dog blueberries without talking with your veterinarian first. If you are confused about how much to give your dog, check with your vet for guidance.

How to Prepare Blueberries

You want to ensure that the blueberries you give your dog are clean and fresh. Don't feed old or moldy blueberries to your dog. If you wouldn't eat them, neither should your dog.

Offering washed, raw berries is the best way to give your dog this fruit. Many owners offer their pets frozen blueberries as a crunchy treat, which is fine, as long as you follow the same guidelines and don't overfeed.

Of course, your dog may have a mind of their own and eat a few raw blueberries off a bush. That's acceptable, although your dog really shouldn't eat something unless you have given it to them.

Avoid Blueberry Pancakes and Muffins

Do not feed blueberries that are included in human food, such as pancakes, muffins, or pie. The problem is not the berries; it is the high sugar and fat content of these sweet treats. Too much sugar is not good for dogs, so they should not have human food containing high levels of sugar. Instead of those sugary treats, try making your own blueberry dog treat.

Consult Your Veterinarian with Concerns

Are blueberries safe for dogs? The answer is basically yes, dogs can eat blueberries, but only in small amounts. If you have any concern about what to feed your dog, consult with your vet. In moderation, blueberries may have health benefits for dogs, and might help you keep your dog healthy and happy for a long time.

Can dogs eat blueberries? The short answer is yes, dogs can eat blueberries, but there are some things you should know before you share them with your dog.

Blueberries are full of vitamins and nutrients that can give dogs a big health boost, and they’re small and soft, so they don’t present much of a choking hazard. Many commercial dog foods even include them in their formulas.

Advertisement

However, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Blueberries are high in fiber, and while that is beneficial in appropriate amounts, too much fiber can lead to gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea.

You should always ask your veterinarian before sharing human foods with your dog, and blueberries are no exception. When fed to dogs correctly, they can be a tasty, healthy treat. Here’s what you should know about feeding blueberries to dogs.

How Are Blueberries Good For Dogs?

Blueberries are low in calories, which make them a good snack or reward for training that won’t cause weight gain or obesity.

They are high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which may help boost the immune system and fight aging in the brain, arthritis pain, and even cancer. They may even help ward off cardiovascular disease and other conditions like the common cold.

Compared to other fruits, blueberries are relatively low in sugar, and they may even be appropriate for dogs with diabetes, though you should absolutely ask your veterinarian before giving them to dogs with any medical condition.

When Are Blueberries Bad For Dogs?

(Picture Credit: Getty Images)

Blueberries are high in fiber, and too many of them can cause a tummy ache and diarrhea. This is especially concerning if you grow them in your yard where your dog can get them. You should keep an eye on your pup or block off the blueberry garden to make sure they aren’t gorging themselves on these fruits.

Artificially blueberry flavored products are also not good for dogs. They often contain chemicals, preservatives, or other substances that are harmful to canines.

Additionally, products that contain blueberries may also have added sugar and other ingredients that can make dogs sick. Always check labels and ask your vet before sharing human food with your dog.

These fruits are small and soft, so they don’t present much of a choking hazard, but if frozen, they become hard and may cause choking in smaller dogs. While this is unlikely, the risk can be avoided by simply making sure blueberries are defrosted before feeding them to small dogs.

How Should You Feed Blueberries To Your Dog?

(Picture Credit: Getty Images)

You should always ask your veterinarian before feeding your dog human foods, including blueberries. They can instruct you on the proper serving size and make sure your dog’s health won’t be negatively affected by blueberries. Once you get the okay from your vet, there are many ways to feed them to your dog.

Some people mash blueberries and add them to their dogs’ food for a tasty health boost. They can be used in treat recipes or be blended together to create a smoothie.

Most of the time, however, they’re given to dogs raw. Because they are low in sugar and calories, they can make an excellent reward during training sessions.

Always make sure to choose organic blueberries that haven’t been exposed to herbicides or pesticides, as those can make dogs sick, and make sure to wash them before feeding them to dogs.

Some people like to freeze them for a refreshing summer treat, but it is important to note that freezing blueberries makes them hard, which can pose a choking hazard to small dogs.

Some dogs find the taste to be bitter and unpleasant. For those dogs, there are many other fruits that are healthy, including strawberries and bananas.

Not every fruit is good for dogs, though. Grapes, for example, can cause kidney failure. Research and check with your vet before giving fruits to your dog.

Do you ever feed blueberries to your dog for a treat? Do you have any dog food recipes that include blueberries? Let us know in the comments below!

How much is too much blueberries for dogs?

Can blueberries make dogs sick?

How many blueberries can my dog eat?