Do you want your dog to enjoy the mesmerizing flavor of strawberries as you do? But before doing so, you must know if they are safe for their health or not. Otherwise, you might end up making your pup ill. What fruit is healthy or unhealthy for dogs usually depends upon their breed and type.
But overall, giving strawberries to your dog is a big YES. But always remember, in some cases, strawberries can be dangerous to your pooch’s health too, if not given in the right amounts and ways.
Advantages of Giving Strawberries to Your Dog
Including strawberries in your dog’s diet can yield numerous advantages and contribute significantly to their overall well-being. These vibrant red fruits are not just a tasty treat, but also a powerhouse of essential nutrients that can boost your furry friend’s health.
One of the primary health benefits of strawberries comes from their high fiber content. Dietary fiber plays a pivotal role in promoting a healthy digestive system, ensuring that your dog’s metabolism functions smoothly. The fiber in strawberries helps to regulate bowel movements and can potentially mitigate issues such as constipation, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal complications.
Strawberries are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known for their multiple health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining your dog’s skin and coat health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cognitive function. They also contribute to heart health, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.
In addition to these, strawberries are packed with folic acid, a type of B vitamin that’s crucial for cell growth and regeneration. Folic acid is especially important for pregnant dogs as it aids in the development of the nervous system of puppies.
Moreover, strawberries are a good source of vital vitamins, including Vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and fights off infections. They are also high in Vitamin K, which plays an important role in blood clotting and bone health.
Of course, one cannot ignore the delightful taste of strawberries. Their natural sweetness and juicy texture make them an appealing snack for dogs, who typically love this refreshing change from their regular diet.
Harms of ‘Too Much Strawberry’
No doubt strawberries are healthy and beneficial in many ways. But excess of anything is always a bad thing. The same goes for giving strawberries to your dog. Like a lot of other fruits, they also contain high amounts of sugar. Just like for humans, too much sugar can be unhealthy.
How Much Strawberry is ‘Too Much’?
First of all, remember that we are only talking about giving fresh strawberries to your pup. If you think of giving canned strawberries or sweet dishes made up of it, you might want to reconsider. You may also consult your veterinarian to ensure this fact.
Coming back to our question, a few strawberries in a whole day is okay. If you let your dog keep eating this fruit the entire day, it would certainly be ‘Too Much’ for a pet. Even if your best-friend wants more and likes its taste, you have to keep the amounts in moderation.
How to Serve Strawberries to Your Pup?
Everyone’s dog is different and likes to be served differently. If your junior friend likes the food to be cut or mashed into smaller pieces, you should do that. However, if he likes to chew the whole strawberry at once then go ahead (although for a smaller dog it still might be better to cut it up).
Final Words
Giving treats to your homie is never a bad option if you make sure it doesn’t hurt or make your dog sick. So, keep giving delicious strawberries to your dogs and let them enjoy the fascinating flavors.
Should you have any other questions, schedule a video consultation with one of Cooper Pet Care’s qualified veterinarians. Get immediate answers to whatever your issue might be.
