The Complete Guide to Dogs Eating Strawberries: Bad or Good?

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Yes, dogs can eat strawberries, and these sweet, juicy fruits can be a tasty and nutritious treat for your pup. But before you start sharing your snack, there are a few important things to consider. While strawberries provide essential vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, feeding them improperly or in excess may lead to digestive issues or other health concerns. Plus, should you serve them fresh or frozen? What about the leaves? This guide will explore the benefits, potential risks, and the safest way to incorporate strawberries into your dog’s diet.

Are Strawberries Good For Dogs?

Yes, strawberries can be a healthy and delicious treat for dogs when given in moderation.

Unlike processed dog treats, strawberries are low in calories and fat, making them a great snack option—especially for dogs on a weight management plan. While strawberries are a great source of nutrition, they should be served fresh and in bite-sized pieces to prevent choking hazards. Additionally, strawberries contain natural sugars, so they should be fed in moderation to avoid digestive issues or excess calorie intake.

Benefits

100 grams of Strawberries (approximately 5-7 medium strawberries) contains the following nutrients:

Strawberries Nutrition Chart (100g)

Nutrient Analysis

Risks & Considerations Before Feeding Strawberries to Dogs

While strawberries can be a safe and nutritious treat for dogs when given in moderation, there are several risks and considerations to keep in mind before feeding them to your canine companion:

Avoid if your dog suffers from these health issues: Strawberries are generally safe for most dogs, but should be avoided in dogs with diabetes, kidney disease, pancreatitis, or blood sugar issues. The natural sugars in strawberries can spike blood glucose levels, which is risky for diabetic dogs. Additionally, the potassium content can be harmful to dogs with kidney disease, as their kidneys struggle to filter excess potassium. For dogs with pancreatitis, the fiber and sugars in strawberries may exacerbate the condition by straining the pancreas. Always consult your vet before feeding strawberries to dogs with these conditions.

Are Dogs Allergic to Strawberries?

Risks

The following symptoms may indicate a bad reaction to strawberries.

What to Do If A Dog Reacts Badly to Strawberries

Dogs showing worsening symptoms, such as blood in their vomit or stool, difficulty breathing, weakness, or collapse, should be taken to the veterinarian immediately.

1. Contact a veterinarian immediately: Even if your dog seems fine, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison hotline right away. This includes services such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-764-7661. If you can’t reach your vet, you can chat live with a registered online veterinary professional via our online vet chat or video chat support (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). You can also schedule an at-home veterinary appointment with The Vets, a mobile veterinary service that provides at-home vet care nationwide for just about everything.

2. Gather important information: When speaking to a veterinarian, provide the following details: the Quantity consumed (estimate if unsure), the time of ingestion, and the dog’s weight and breed (to assess potential risk).

3. Follow veterinary instructions: The vet may suggest monitoring at home or emergency treatment at the clinic.

• Keep your dog calm and prevent them from eating anything else.
• Be prepared to transport your dog to the vet quickly if advised.
• Bring any remaining pineapple or packaging to help the vet assess the situation.

How to Safely Feed Strawberries to Dogs

When feeding strawberries to your dog, it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines to keep them safe:

Way to Feed Strawberries

As with any new food, it is recommended to start slowly and feed gradually, allowing the digestive system time to adjust. 

Best Strawberry Dog Treat

For those who want to offer the benefits of strawberries in a decadent, dog-friendly dessert, Bonne et Filou Dog Treats Strawberry Cupcakes provide a luxurious and fun treat option. These gourmet dog cupcakes are made with natural, high-quality ingredients and flavored with real strawberries, delivering a delightful blend of flavor and nutrition. Ideal for special occasions or pampering your pup, they support healthy indulgence without compromising on quality.

How Many Strawberries Can Dogs Eat?

Treats should only constitute 10% of your dog’s diet, with the remaining 90% coming from well-balanced dog food. This guideline also applies to healthy treats, such as strawberries. Below, you’ll find general guidelines for safely portioning strawberries based on your dog’s weight.

Dog Size	Strawberries Serving	Breed Examples
Extra-small (2-15 lbs.)	1-2 small strawberries, 1-2 times per week	Shih Tzu, Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Maltese
Small (16-25 lbs.)	2-3 small strawberries, 2 times per week	Boston Terriers, Beagles, Dachshund
Medium (26-60 lbs.)	Up to 3 strawberries, 2-3 times per week	Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, Border Collies
Large (61-90 lbs.)	Up to 4 strawberries, 3 times per week	Golden Retrievers, Pit Bulls, Boxers, Labrador Retrievers
Extra-large (91+ lbs.)	Up to 5 strawberries, 3-4 times per week	Bullmastiffs, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Great Pyrenees

Can Puppies Eat Strawberries?

Yes, puppies can eat strawberries, as long as they are given in moderation and smaller amounts. Since puppies have more sensitive digestive systems, it’s best to start with a small portion, such as a teaspoon of mashed or finely chopped strawberries. Feeding them too many strawberries at once could lead to digestive upset due to the natural sugar and fiber content, so moderation is key. Avoiding multiple new foods on the same day is essential when introducing strawberries or any new food. Puppies can have food allergies or sensitivities, and if they experience any issues, it will be easier to pinpoint the cause if you introduce only one new food at a time. Try offering a small amount of fresh strawberries, then wait a few days to observe how their digestive system reacts before introducing another new treat.

Alternatives

Here’s a list of alternatives to strawberries that are just as safe and nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

Strawberries can be a delicious, nutritious, and refreshing treat for dogs when served properly. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, they support immune health, digestion, and overall well-being. However, like any treat, strawberries should be fed in moderation to avoid potential issues like digestive upset or excess sugar intake. While most dogs can safely enjoy strawberries, dogs with diabetes, sensitive stomachs, or food allergies should only have them with veterinary approval. By following proper feeding guidelines, you can offer strawberries as a healthy, low-calorie alternative to processed treats.

If you’re looking for other healthy snack options, check out the best dog treats to find safe and nutritious alternatives. You can also get creative in the kitchen with homemade dog treat recipes for a natural and wholesome reward. Are you curious about other common human foods? Learn if jelly belongs on your dog’s do-not-feed list.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.