Can Dogs Eat Strawberries? Sugar and Serving Size

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Ripe, juicy strawberries are a favorite summer fruit, and many dogs will beg for a bite. They are safe in small quantities, but like all fruit, they contain sugar, so moderation is wise.

Nutrition

Strawberries are about ninety percent water. They provide vitamin C, manganese, folate, potassium and fibre, plus antioxidants. A cup of halved strawberries has around fifty calories. Dogs make their own vitamin C, so it is not essential, and they get most nutrients from a complete diet. See essential vitamins for dogs.

Sugar and calories

Strawberries have less sugar than many fruits, but it is still natural sugar, and large amounts can cause diarrhea or contribute to weight gain. Dogs with diabetes should not be given fruit without veterinary advice. See how to help an overweight dog lose weight.

How much?

Treats should be no more than about ten percent of daily calories. As a guide:

• Small dogs: one small berry, cut up
• Medium dogs: one or two berries
• Large dogs: a few berries

Offer strawberries occasionally rather than daily.

Preparing strawberries

1. Wash thoroughly to remove pesticides and dirt.
2. Remove the green top and stem.
3. Cut into small pieces or mash, particularly for small dogs.
4. Serve fresh, or freeze for a cooling treat.

Frozen strawberries

Frozen strawberries make a good summer snack. Freeze small pieces, and supervise your dog to prevent choking on hard frozen chunks. You can also blend strawberries with plain yogurt or water and freeze in an ice tray.

Strawberry products to avoid

• Jam, jelly and syrup, which are high in sugar and may contain xylitol. See xylitol toxicity.
• Strawberry-flavored yogurt and ice cream with added sugar and sweeteners.
• Strawberry shortcake and baked goods, which contain sugar, fat and sometimes chocolate.
• Canned strawberries in syrup.
• Dried strawberries with added sugar.

Dental concerns

Strawberries are sometimes said to whiten teeth, but they do not replace brushing. Sugars can stick to teeth, so brush regularly. See dental disease in dogs.

Allergies and stomach upset

Introduce strawberries slowly. Signs of intolerance include vomiting, diarrhea, itching and hives. Stop feeding and contact your vet if you see them.

Other berry treats

Blueberries are another good choice. See blueberries for dogs. Avoid wild berries unless you are sure they are safe.

Strawberries and pesticide residues

Strawberries often appear on lists of fruits with higher pesticide residues, so wash them thoroughly under running water, or choose organic berries when possible. Remove any mouldy or bruised fruit before sharing. Garden strawberries are fine to share if they have not been treated with chemicals that are unsafe for pets, but check what you have sprayed on the plants first.

A simple strawberry treat

Mash a few ripe strawberries and mix with plain unsweetened yogurt, then freeze small portions in an ice tray. Offer one cube on a warm day. For a baked option, mix mashed strawberry with plain oat flour and a little egg, bake as small biscuits and store in the fridge. Always keep the portion small, since fruit sugar adds up quickly in little bodies.

Trying fruit with fussy dogs

Some dogs refuse fruit at first. Offer a tiny piece in a calm moment, and do not push. If your dog shows no interest, there are plenty of other treats. If it eats fruit eagerly but gets loose stools afterward, stop and speak to your vet.

The takeaway

Strawberries make a sweet, healthy treat in small portions. Wash, trim and serve sparingly.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.