Can Dogs Eat Blackberries?
Can Dogs Eat Blackberries? Blackberries are a wonderful human superfood, but can dogs have blackberries? Yes, they can, and they do offer some health benefits too. But, as with all treats, they must be served sparingly to avoid nutrient imbalance and potential stomach upset.
The inside scoop on the pros and cons of blackberries for dogs—and how to figure out how many you can safely give your dog.
Are Blackberries Healthy for Dogs?
Can Dogs Eat Blackberries? Blackberries are relatively low-calorie and lower in sugar content compared to the majority of other fruits. They do have a high content of vitamins and other nutrients that may be healthy for dogs in one way or another. That being said, because blackberries are given in such small amounts, they won’t make much of a difference in their nutritional value. Instead, use them as occasional treats for your dog.
That being said, here are some of the vitamins and other nutrients in blackberries and some of their potential health benefits:
- Anthocyanins/antioxidants are reduced inflammation and can help guard against diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
- Fiber assists with digestive functioning by enhancing gut health and aiding stools in moving through the body.
- Omega-3 fatty acids help lower inflammation, support heart and kidney function, promote healthy skin and coat, strengthen the immune system, and contribute to brain development.
- Vitamin A supports eye and skin health, immune system strength, and bone development and reproduction.
- B Vitamins build immunity, metabolism, energy, and heart and brain health; and improve coat and skin condition.
- Vitamin C supports immune system building and wound healing. It also supports collagen synthesis; iron absorption; and maintenance of bones, teeth, and cartilage.
- Vitamin E is an antioxidant that aids in healthy immune and circulatory function, healthy skin, and healthy muscle development.
- Vitamin K promotes bone, heart, blood, and muscle health.
How Many Blackberries Can I Give My Dog?
Can Dogs Eat Blackberries? Begin by taking into account your dog’s size. A toy breed will only need a few berries, whereas a giant breed such as a Bernese Mountain Dog or Great Dane will be content with a handful. Be certain to wash the fruit beforehand. Even if picked fresh from your own backyard, blackberries should be rinsed clean of dirt or pesticides.
Avoid frozen berries, which usually have added sugars or xylitol. Whole, chopped, mashed, or pureed berries can be served as desired based on the size and preference of your dog. Wild blackberries are also safe for dogs to eat, as long as you can be sure they are really blackberries. There are no poisonous plants that resemble blackberries that I know of, but why take the chance?
No matter how you provide blackberries to your dog, simply take a good look at your pet to see if they are not feeling a bit of stomach discomfort. While this particular fruit is safe for dogs, there are just too many others that are not. Come visit our extensive list of fruits and vegetables to feed or not feed your dog.
And of course, anything you give to your dog as a treat, human or pet food, has to be given in moderation. After all, that is what they are treats.
Are There Any Risks in Giving Blackberries to My Dog?
Can Dogs Eat Blackberries?Like many foods, too many blackberries may upset your dog’s stomach due to their fiber, natural sugars, or in rare cases, an allergic reaction. If your dog shows signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gas after eating them, it’s best to contact your veterinarian.
Blackberries also contain naturally occurring xylitol in very small amounts, as do other veggies and fruits. Although xylitol is lethal to dogs, it’s safe given the minute amount in the small portion your dog eats. Your dog would have to eat tons of berries to become poisoned. But if your dog has any of the following symptoms, call your vet immediately:
- Over-vomiting
- Seizures
- Weakness or loss of coordination
- Collapse
- Over-diarrhea
- Blood in vomit or stool.
Which berries are toxic to dogs?
Most types of berries are fine for dogs, but there are some that you should avoid.
It’s best to avoid wild berries that you’re not familiar with if you don’t know where you are.
Never feed the following berries to your dogs:
- Holly berries
- Winterberries
- Poke berries
- Dogwood berries
- Juniper berries
- Mistletoe berries
While not all berries contain health hazards, it’s best to err on the side of caution with unknown fruit.
Healthy blackberry alternatives your dog will love
Can Dogs Eat Blackberries? Many parents grumble about their family blackberry budget getting out of hand. And if you have hungry children and pets munching on blackberries, these nutritious snacks can add up in a hurry, too. Try these healthy blackberry substitutes you can feed your pets (and any blackberry-crazed toddlers in the household):
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Pumpkins
- Sweet potatoes
- Carrots
- Apples
- Bananas
Berries, the majority of fruits, and most veggies are generally safe for both humans and animals, as long as they’re consumed in moderation. De-seed, de-core, and de-stem before giving them to your pet, too.
Dogs and blackberries FAQs
Can dogs eat frozen blackberries?
Frozen blackberries are a perfect dog treat, especially on a warm summer day.
They are nutritionally equivalent to fresh blackberries and could provide a reassuring teething puppy snack.
Are cooked blackberries safe for dogs to eat?
Fresh is best, but cooked blackberries are fine too. Just make sure they have not been added to with sugar, sweeteners or spices.
They can be mashed up into a purée and incorporated into dog-safe recipes as an added nutritional bonus.