Are Strawberries Safe for Dogs to Eat?

February 04, 2025   |   By David Jackson

Summer might still be a little way off, but that hasn't stopped us from dreaming about those longer, sun-soaked days and the fresh, seasonal foods that come with them.

And when it comes to summer favourites, few things beat the sweet, juicy goodness of strawberries.

These ruby-red delights are a staple in British gardens, picnic baskets, and dessert bowls up and down the country - but what about our dogs? Can they enjoy them too?

The short answer? Yes, absolutely dogs can eat strawberries!

But before you start sharing, there are a few things to keep in mind. You see, while strawberries are a safe and nutritious treat, they need to be given in moderation and prepared properly.

So, without further ado, let's take a closer look at this beloved summer berry, the benefits it offers your pup, and the best ways to serve it safely, all so they can enjoy this delicious treat right alongside you.

Can My Dog Eat Strawberries?

Yes, strawberries are completely non-toxic to dogs and can even be beneficial when fed correctly.

Unlike some fruits, such as grapes or cherries, they do not contain anything that could poison your pet.

That said, as with any new food, it is always best to introduce strawberries slowly. While most dogs will have no trouble digesting them, some may have more sensitive stomachs or react differently to certain foods.

Why Are Strawberries Good for Dogs?

Strawberries are more than just a tasty snack. Rather, they are packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fibre that can be of great benefit to your dog's overall health.

Rich in Vitamins

Vitamin C

Supports the immune system and overall cell function.

Vitamin A

Promotes eye health, skin condition, and immune function.

Vitamin K

Helps with blood clotting and bone strength.

Full of Antioxidants

Antioxidants help to reduce inflammation, support brain function, and slow down ageing. This is particularly good for senior dogs.

Aids Digestion

The natural fibre in strawberries can help regulate your dogs digestive system, improving gut health and preventing constipation.

However, too much fibre in one go may lead to stomach upset, so it is important to feed them in moderation.

Low in Calories and Fat

If you are looking for a low-calorie, low-fat treat, strawberries make an excellent alternative to processed dog treats. This is especially good for pups on a weight-controlled diet.

Potential Risks of Feeding Strawberries to Dogs

We've listed the benefits they're pretty great but there are a few things to keep in mind before feeding strawberries to your dog, for instance...

High Sugar Content

Strawberries contain natural sugars, which are far better than artificial alternatives but can still be a concern for diabetic or overweight dogs. If your dog has any health conditions, wed recommend you chat with your vet before offering strawberries to your pup.

Choking Hazard

Whole strawberries, particularly larger ones, can be a choking risk - especially for smaller dogs. To reduce a risk of choking, its always a good idea to cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they are easy to chew and swallow.

Pesticides and Chemicals

Strawberries are known for being one of the most pesticide-heavy fruits. To minimise the risk of chemical exposure, wash them thoroughly before feeding them to your dog. Or, if possible, pick up some organic strawberries.

Allergic Reactions

While rare, some dogs may be allergic to strawberries. Signs of an allergic reaction include:

• • Itchy skin or rashes
• • Swelling around the face or mouth
• • Vomiting or diarrhoea
• • Difficulty breathing

If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, stop feeding strawberries immediately and contact your vet.

How to Feed Strawberries to Your Dog

Fresh and Raw

This is the simplest way to serve strawberries (and my goodness do they taste good like this!), just be sure to wash them, remove the leaves, and cut them into small, manageable pieces for your dog to enjoy.

Frozen Strawberry Treats

On a warm day, frozen strawberries can be a refreshing treat and a great way to add a little extra enrichment into your dogs day.

We don't recommend your freeze whole strawberries though, as they can be a choking hazard for smaller dogs and may even end up being too hard for your dog to chew. Best to cut into small pieces before storing in the freezer.

Mashed or Pureed

For dogs with sensitive teeth or smaller breeds, mashed strawberries can be easier to eat. You can mix them into your dogs food for a tasty addition or spread them onto a slow feed mat for enrichment.

Homemade Dog Treats

Strawberries are great for making some homemade dog treats for your pup without all the unnecessary additions you often find in store bought treats.

Simple recipes you could try include blending with plain yoghurt and freeze for small dog-friendly ice lollies or mix with oats and peanut butter to create homemade biscuits they will love.

How Many Strawberries Can Dogs Eat?

As with all treats, moderation is key remember, treats should only make up 10% of your dogs daily calorie intake. Plus, too many strawberries may lead to an upset stomach or excessive sugar intake.

A general guideline is:

• • Small dogs 1-2 small pieces
• • Medium dogs 2-4 pieces
• • Large dogs A small handful (5-6 pieces)

Can Dogs Eat Strawberry-Flavoured Foods?

While fresh strawberries are safe, many strawberry-flavoured products are not. They're often packed with unnecessary additives, preservatives and other nasties you'll want to avoid giving to your dog.

• • Strawberry jam or preserves These will contain high levels of sugar.
• • Strawberry yoghurt Some brands have artificial sweeteners, which can be harmful to dogs.
• • Strawberry ice cream Often contains dairy and sugar, which can upset your dogs stomach.
• • Strawberry-flavoured sweets or syrups Many contain artificial additives or xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.

When in doubt, always check ingredient labels before sharing any human food with your dog.

In Conclusion

Strawberries can be a healthy and enjoyable treat for dogs when fed correctly.

They offer valuable nutrients, antioxidants, and fibre while being naturally low in calories. However, they should always be washed, cut into small pieces, and fed in moderation to avoid digestive issues or choking risks.

If you are ever unsure, consult your vet before introducing new foods into your dogs diet. But for most dogs, a few fresh strawberries now and then can be a delicious, guilt-free treat.

Would you like to see more dog-friendly fruit guides? Let us know in the comments!

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