Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?
Yes. Strawberries are safe for dogs: they're low in calories and sugar. Serve them fresh, washed, without the green tops and cut up if your dog is small.
What it gives your dog
Strawberries provide about 32 kcal per 100 g, around 5 g of sugar, fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants such as polyphenols. They're among the lowest-sugar fruits, so they work well as a light treat, even for dogs on a diet. Most dogs like their taste and soft texture.
The versions to avoid are the processed ones: strawberries in syrup, jam, smoothies, sweetened strawberry yogurt, strawberry-flavored candy (it may contain xylitol) and strawberries with whipped cream or chocolate. A large whole strawberry can choke a very small dog that swallows without chewing, so it's best to cut them up.
How to serve it
- Washed and with the green top removed
- Cut into quarters or slices for small dogs
- Frozen or in cubes with plain yogurt
- Never in syrup, as jam, or with whipped cream or chocolate
How much can they eat?
Small dog (under 10 kg / 22 lb): 1-2 strawberries, cut up. Medium (10-25 kg / 22-55 lb): 3-4 strawberries. Large (over 25 kg / 55 lb): 5-6 strawberries. As a treat, within 10% of their daily food; if it's the first time, start with half.
Risks
- Choking on a whole strawberry in a very small dog
- Diarrhea if they eat a lot at once
- Strawberry products with sugar or xylitol
- Pesticides: wash them well
Frequently asked questions
How many strawberries can a dog eat?
As a guide, one or two for a small dog, three or four for a medium dog and five or six for a large one, occasionally. They're low in calories, but a lot of fruit at once can give your dog diarrhea. If they've never had them, start with half a strawberry and see how it sits over the next few hours.
Do strawberries whiten a dog's teeth?
It's often said because of their malic acid, but there's no evidence that eating strawberries cleans or whitens a dog's teeth. Dental care comes down to brushing with dog-specific toothpaste and veterinary checkups. Strawberries are a good treat, not a dental treatment.
General information reviewed against veterinary sources. If your dog has eaten something that worries you, call your vet or a 24-hour emergency vet right away, without waiting for symptoms.