The strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) originated in Europe in the 18th century. It is a hybrid of two wild strawberry species from North America and Chile.
Strawberries are luscious red berries that are popular among people of all ages. Believed to be native to France, They originate from cold weather, although it does not tolerate frost.
But there are cultivars adapted to mild temperatures (between 15° and 25°C). And the short autumn-winter days favour fruiting. Strawberries offer several benefits as they are a good source of antioxidants and nutrients.
Dogs are carnivorous animals, so they need protein in their diet. However, the importance of adding other ingredients to their diet has been demonstrated. Fruit is an example! Still, there are allowed and forbidden fruits that you should be aware of.
This red fruit is not toxic or poisonous for dogs and can be offered whole without worrying about removing the seeds. Just wash it and remove the green branch before giving it to the dog.
It is important to point out that some dogs can develop hypersensitivity to strawberries, and therefore, if this is the first time that you give this fruit to your dog, give a small amount and observe the animal’s behaviour, if there are vomiting, diarrhoea, apathy, increased water intake or difficulty breathing, you should immediately contact your Veterinarian.
The Nutritional Value Of Strawberries
Can dogs have Strawberries? Strawberries are delicious and healthy fruits that are packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals. Let’s look at the nutrients and their benefits:
1. Vitamin C: Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and Vitamin C enhances your body’s absorption of iron and folate from plant-based foods. It also acts as a potent antioxidant that inhibits free-radical damage.a single cup of strawberries contains over 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. It is important for immune system function, skin health, and wound healing.
2. Folate: Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for healthy cell growth and development. The folate found in strawberries can help keep your dog’s blood cells healthy and promote healthy cell growth, reducing the risk of anemia and other health issues related to a deficiency in this essential nutrient.
3. Potassium: Potassium is an important mineral that helps to regulate blood pressure and support heart health and also helps regulate fluid balance in the body. One cup of strawberries contains around 5% of the recommended daily intake of potassium.
4. Fiber: Strawberries contain a good amount of dietary fibre, which is crucial for maintaining healthy digestion in dogs and can help to lower cholesterol levels. One cup of strawberries contains around 3 grams of fiber.
Dietary fiber does not just play a pivotal role in promoting a healthy digestive system, it also ensures that your dog’s metabolism functions smoothly.
5. Manganese: Strawberries have manganese which helps the canine body properly use carbohydrates and protein from consumed foods.
Manganese is a mineral that is important for bone health, wound healing, and metabolism. One cup of strawberries contains around 15% of the recommended daily intake of manganese.
6. Vitamin K: Vitamin K is a fat-soluble nutrient for dogs that is essential for the synthesis of coagulation proteins needed for blood to clot. Vitamin K is important for bone health. One cup of strawberries contains around 2% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K.
In addition to these key nutrients, strawberries also contain a range of other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, vitamin E, copper, and magnesium. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals.
Can Dogs Eat Strawberries? – Fruits That Dogs Can Safely Eat
Remember it’s safe to give a dog a small amount of fruit, though there are exceptions to it. Let’s quickly look at fruits dogs can and cannot eat.
- Pineapple: Yes, your dog can eat pineapple, but without the skin or the crown, of course. The fruit contains bromelain, an enzyme that facilitates protein absorption from the animal’s diet.
Pineapple is one of the fruits suitable for dogs, but it is important to be careful with its acidity. If consumed in an exaggerated way, it can harm the pet’s gastrointestinal system.
2. Blackberry: As they are for us, blackberries are excellent antioxidants for dogs. This sweet, juicy berry can be as much of a treat for your dog as it is for humans. delicacy appears not only as one of the fruits for dogs but also as a training snack. However, not all pets like fruit sour. Try it for your dog.
3. Banana: A lot of people are in doubt about whether dogs can eat bananas, and the truth is that the fruit is suitable for pets. Bananas are excellent sources of potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber and copper, with low levels of cholesterol and sodium.
However, they should be consumed in moderation, as they are high in sugar when eaten a lot, which can upset their tummy.
Nutrient-rich and versatile fruit, bananas are a great option to feed dogs. But despite being indicated, it is essential to pay attention, since it is a fruit with a high sugar content.
Therefore, for overweight dogs or diabetes and high cholesterol, fruit is not recommended.
4. Raspberry: Raspberries—just like blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries—are considered a superfruit, meaning they come with all sorts of health benefits.
It can be offered but in moderation. This is because it contains xylitol, which can cause hypoglycemia and liver failure in dogs. Therefore, never let the animal eat more than one cup a day.
On the bright side, raspberries contain antioxidants — good for elderly furry — and little sugar, plus plenty of fibre, manganese, and vitamin C.
5. Guava: Your lovely dog can eat guava, and this is one of the few fruits that can be offered with the peel. Guava helps in intestinal functioning and collaborates in the control of diarrhoea. In addition, it has vitamins A, B and C, iron and phosphorus.
6. Orange: Even the dog can eat oranges, but this is not one of the favourite fruits of dogs. After all, they don’t like the strong-smelling citrus.
Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium and fibre. If you’re going to try, offer only the orange ′′ meat ′′ to the dog – no peel or seeds. However, for animals that have gastritis, they are not recommended, precisely because of their acidity.
7. Apple: Your dog can eat an apple, as this is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. The fruit is low in protein and fat, making it a suitable snack for senior dogs. However, remember that the core and seeds must be removed.
8. Melon: If you were in doubt about whether dogs can eat melons, it’s time to get rid of that concern. However, as in the case of bananas, this fruit should be offered in moderation, especially to overweight and diabetic pets. Plus, it’s rich in water and fiber!
9. Papaya: Look at that good news: your dear dog can eat papaya! The coolest thing is that the fruit has vitamins A and C, fibres, potassium and calcium. However, pay close attention to papain, an enzyme that facilitates digestion, but is famous for loosening the intestines.
10. Mango: Mangoes are fruits that dogs can eat without worrying their owners. Even though they are rich in four vitamins: A, B6, C and E, in addition to potassium and beta-carotene.
They should be given in moderation, as they have a lot of sugar. As with most fruits, before offering the mango to your dog, remove the skin, the pit and the hardest part that surrounds the pit. That’s because there’s a little cyanide there, which can cause respiratory changes.
It is essential to remove the peel and the core, which is toxic for dogs due to the cyanide content.
11. Watermelon: Both red and yellow watermelons are safe and healthy fruits for most puppies and adult dogs to eat. In any case, remember to remove the skin and seeds, so that they do not result in other complications
Watermelon is also a suitable fruit for dogs. She helps with hydration and is rich in vitamins A, B6 and C. Also, it’s a great option to cool pets in the heat. When serving watermelon to dogs, it is important to remove the seeds and skin from the fruit. Another tip is to make popsicles too, leaving the dogs more relieved in the face of the heat.
Also, seeds could cause an intestinal blockage, so make sure you remove them
12. Strawberry: Strawberries are a healthy, low-calorie, sweet treat for your dog, full of antioxidants, high in fibre and vitamin C. In addition to being full of fibre and vitamin C, strawberries have an enzyme that can even help whiten your dog’s teeth. But because of the sugar, the dog can eat strawberries in moderation!
Strawberries are also dog-friendly fruits. One tip is to prepare natural popsicles from strawberry juice to cool off on those hot days, but you have to be careful with excess fruit in dog food.
13. Pear: Another item released on the list of fruits that dogs can eat, the pear is rich in B vitamins, in addition to A and C.
Canned pears are not good for dogs, just like most canned fruit. Canned pears contain too much sugar, which can irritate your dog’s digestive
The pear is rich in fibre,
Other than that, you can fearlessly offer pears to your dog, he will definitely appreciate it.
14. Peach: Fresh or frozen, sliced, peaches are a great source of fibre and vitamin A, and may even help fight infections.
The pit, however, contains cyanide. So, offer the dog only the soft part. Also, avoid canned peaches, which are soaked in sugar syrups.
Read Also: Can Dogs Eat Eggplant?
Read Also: Can Dogs Eat Cashews?: Nutritional Analysis, Health Benefits, And Safe Serving Tips For Canines
Fruits Your Dog Shouldn’t Eat
- Avocado: All parts of this fruit contain persin, a substance that often causes vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. So if you were in doubt whether dogs can eat avocado, know that it is totally prohibited!
2. Star fruit: Star fruit should not be given to dogs because it contains calcium oxalate in all parts of the fruit, especially if it is not yet ripe.
Oxalate salts are absorbed, bind to blood calcium and lead to hypokalemia. In addition, crystals can cause necrosis and kidney failure.
3. Cherry: Cherry blossom plants contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs. It is true that the fleshy part around the seed has lower concentrations of the substance, but it is best not to risk it.
Cyanide disrupts cellular oxygen transport—red blood cells cannot do their job properly. Dilated pupils, difficulty breathing and red gums are signs of cyanide poisoning.
4. Grape: Grapes and raisins (dried grapes) are toxic to dogs, regardless of the breed, sex or age of the animal. They can lead to acute sudden kidney failure and are considered dangerous for furry ones.
5. Stone fruits: contains trace amounts of cyanide, which is toxic to dogs. Stone fruits like peaches, plums, and apricots can be dangerous for dogs, as the pits can cause intestinal blockages.
6. Apples: While apples are generally safe and included in the list of fruits for dogs, we thought it wise to remind you that the seeds contain cyanide, which can be toxic in large amounts.
It’s always a good idea to talk to your veterinarian before introducing any new foods into your dog’s diet, to make sure that they are safe and appropriate for your pet, and also watch out for reactions from them.
Benefits Of Strawberries For Dogs
While there are some fruits that are not safe for dogs to eat, strawberries can actually be a healthy addition to your pet’s diet. Let’s look at some benefits of Strawberries.
1. Nutritional benefits
Strawberries are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help to support overall health and well-being in dogs. Strawberries Are a Top Source of Antioxidants, Which Can Help Reduce Oxidative Stress. They are particularly high in vitamin C, which can help to boost the immune system and support skin health.
2. High In Fiber
Strawberries are a good source of dietary fibre, which can help to regulate digestion and improve bowel health. Fibre content: 3 grams in 1 cup of fresh strawberries, or 2 grams per 100 grams
This can be especially beneficial for dogs that struggle with constipation or other digestive issues.
3. Low In Calories
Strawberries are a low-calorie food, it will help in maintaining your dog’s weight. It’s also a good choice for dogs that are overweight or at risk of obesity. They can be used as a healthy treat or snack, without adding too many extra calories to your pet’s diet.
4. Natural Breath Freshener
Strawberries are known for having compounds that help with digestion as well as provide long-term fresh breath. They contain enzymes that can help to freshen your dog’s breath, which can be especially helpful if you have a dog with bad breath.
5. Training Tool
Can be used as a training tool: Many dogs love the taste of strawberries, making them a great tool for training and positive reinforcement. You can use small pieces of strawberry as a reward for good behaviour.
which can help to reinforce positive habits and encourage your dog to learn new tricks.
It’s important to note that while strawberries can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet, they should be fed in moderation. Too many strawberries can cause digestive upset or diarrhoea in some dogs, and the high sugar content can be a concern for pets with diabetes or other health issues.
There are also several specific conditions or health issues in dogs that strawberries may positively impact. Here are a few examples:
1. Arthritis: While there’s currently no cure for arthritis, you can ease the annoying symptoms triggered by the condition through a healthy lifestyle, strawberries contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with arthritis in dogs.
2. Cancer: Antioxidants prevent the formation of cancer cells. A 2016 study showed that ellagic acid has anticarcinogenic attributes in dogs. The antioxidants in strawberries may also help to prevent the formation and growth of cancer cells in dogs.
3. Dental health: The enzymes in strawberries can help to clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath, which can be beneficial for overall dental health.
4. Digestive health: The fibre in strawberries can help to regulate digestion and improve bowel health in dogs. This can be especially helpful for dogs that struggle with constipation or other digestive issues.
Additionally, the high water content in strawberries can help keep your dog hydrated and prevent dehydration, which can contribute to digestive problems.
5. Immune system support: polyphenols in strawberries feed beneficial bacteria, helping to balance the gut and support your dog’s immune system. Additionally, the anthocyanins found in strawberries have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that can help support your dog’s immune system
Always talk to your veterinarian before introducing any new foods or supplements into your dog’s diet, especially if they have a pre-existing health condition.
Preparing And Serving Strawberries For Dogs
How can dogs eat Street? When preparing strawberries for dogs, it’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure that they are safe and healthy for your pet:
1. Wash the strawberries thoroughly: Rinse the strawberries under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. If possible wash them with salt.
2. Remove the stems and leaves: Cut off the green tops of the strawberries and discard them, as they are not safe for dogs to eat.
3. Cut the strawberries into small pieces: Cut the strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces that are easy for your dog to chew and swallow.
4. Feed in moderation: While strawberries can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet, it is important to consume strawberries in moderation and with appropriate precautions. Too many strawberries can cause digestive upset or diarrhoea in some dogs, and the high sugar content can be a concern for pets with diabetes or other health issues.
5. Consider freezing or pureeing the strawberries: Frozen or pureed strawberries can make a refreshing and healthy treat for dogs, especially during hot weather. However, be sure to avoid adding any sugar or other sweeteners to the strawberries, as these can be harmful to your pet.
6. Always supervise your dog: Whenever you give your dog a new food or treat, it’s important to supervise them to make sure that they are eating it safely and not choking or having any adverse reactions.
Note that strawberries should not exceed 10 per cent of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Let’s see the number of Strawberries your dog can safely eat depending on their size.
- Small Dogs: one strawberry per day cut into small pieces is sufficient.
- Medium-Sized Dogs can have 3-4 strawberries, and
- Large Dogs can have up to 5 strawberries
Always talk to your veterinarian before introducing any new foods or supplements into your dog’s diet, especially if they have a pre-existing health condition.
Read Also: Can Dogs Eat Courgette? The Incredible Health Benefits
Strawberries Dog Treat Recipe
If you’re a dog owner who loves to spoil your furry friend with tasty treats, then you may like to try these unique recipes below.
1. Strawberries Treat Recipe 1
Ingredients
- Fresh Strawberries – the star of the treats!
- Banana – use a ripe banana.
- Peanut Butter is a healthy fat and adds protein to the treats.
- Oat Flour is a whole-grain flour rich in nutrients.
- Old-Fashioned Oats for Texture.
- Water to add moisture to the dough.
Instructions:
- Cut the strawberries into pieces.
- Mash the banana in a medium or large bowl. Add peanut butter and stir to combine.
- Add the flour and oats.
- Stir to combine, the dough will be crumbly.
- Add enough water for the dough to easily be spooned or placed into a silicone mould.
- Spoon the dough into the mould.
- Press strawberry pieces into each one.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the baked treats to a wire rack and cool them to room temperature
2. Strawberries Oatmeal Dog Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cup oats
- ⅓ cup peanut butter
- ½ cup chopped strawberries
- 2.4-inch paw print cookie cutter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350° degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Grind the oats in a food processor or high-speed blender.
- Add the chopped strawberries and peanut butter, and pulse. **If this doesn’t work perfectly to make a solid dough, remove the mixture and place into a bowl, then mash mixture with a potato masher, until it makes a nice solid dough.
- Roll the dough out on a clean, flat surface.
- Use the cookie cutter to cut shapes, and place the shapes onto the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and set on a baking rack until completely cooled.
- Place treats into an airtight container, and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
3. Frozen Strawberries Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberry stems removed
- 1 cup natural yoghurt or coconut yoghurt
Instructions:
- Place all the ingredients in a blender and blitz until smooth.
- Spoon the mixture into frozen dog treat moulds.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours
4. Strawberry Shortcake Parfait Recipe
Ingredients
- Plain Yogurt – We recommend Greek yogurt
- Thinly Sliced Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Buddy Valastro Party Cake Recipe Dog Treats
- Puppy Parfait Bowl
Instructions
- Once your ingredients are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to start putting together this yummy treat!
- Using a spoon, apply an even layer of yogurt on the bottom of the bowl.
- On top of your yogurt layer, add some blueberries and strawberries.
- Continue layering the yogurt and fruit until your bowl is full to the desired amount.
- Top off your puppy parfait with some crumbled Buddy V Party Cake Recipe treats!
5. Homemade Strawberry Banana Dog Treats
Instructions
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup peanut butter*
- 1 cup Wheat flour
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1 mashed banana (1/2 cup)
- 5 ripe strawberries finely diced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300 degrees
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and knead until a dough ball forms. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about an inch thick. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters or treat molds.
- Place the cutouts or the mould sheets on a baking pan and bake for about 20-25 minutes.
- Remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before handling.
Conclusion
In Conclusion, It’s important to always consult with a veterinarian before introducing strawberries or any new food into a dog’s diet.
Your veterinarian can help you determine if strawberries are safe and healthy for your dog, and can also provide guidance on how much to feed and how to prepare them properly. Remember, your veterinarian is your best resource when it comes to your pet’s health and nutrition, so don’t hesitate to reach out to them with any questions or concerns.
Latests Posts:
