Loved for their bright red color and sweet flavor, strawberries show up in everything from smoothies and salads to baked treats. On their own, strawberries are a healthy snack — but they’re often paired with added sugar or other ingredients that are not good for dogs. In this article, we’ll explore how strawberries can fit into your dog’s diet, the benefits they offer, safe serving sizes, and what you should know before sharing this fruit with your pup.
Can dogs have strawberries?
Yes, when offered plain and without added sugar, strawberries can be a safe, healthy addition to most dogs’ diets.
Are strawberries good for dogs?
Strawberries can provide dogs with a range of nutritional and health benefits.
Nutritional benefits of strawberries for dogs
Strawberries can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. They’re low in calories, rich in water, and packed with vitamins and minerals.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 grams (around 3.5 ounces) of fresh strawberries provide:
- 32 calories
- 7.7 grams of carbohydrates
- 2 grams of dietary fiber
- 4.9 grams of total sugars
- 58.8 mg of vitamin C
- 24 micrograms of folate (vitamin B9)
- 153 mg of potassium
- 13 mg of magnesium
- 16 mg of calcium
- 24 mg of phosphorus
Health benefits of strawberries for dogs
Strawberries are one of the most nutrient-dense fruits you can safely share with your dog. They support immune strength, digestion, hydration, weight balance, and even oral hygiene.
Antioxidant protection
Strawberries are packed with antioxidants such as vitamin C, ellagic acid, and anthocyanins (the red pigment). These antioxidants support the immune system, help neutralize free radicals, and may slow down some effects of aging and chronic inflammation.
Studies using mixed berries (including strawberries) in dogs show improved antioxidant status and reduced oxidative stress, especially in active dogs. While research on strawberries alone in dogs is limited, they clearly contribute to a more antioxidant-rich diet.
Digestive support
The dietary fiber in strawberries supports healthy bowel movements, helps feed good gut bacteria, and may ease mild constipation in some dogs. But it’s important to remember that too much fiber at once can cause loose stools, so moderation is important.
Hydration boost
With about 91% water content, strawberries are one of the most hydrating fruits. Fresh or frozen strawberry slices can help keep your dog hydrated and provide a cooling treat on hot days.
Weight management
Strawberries are naturally low in calories and contain almost no fat. For dogs who need to lose or maintain weight, replacing a high-calorie biscuit with a few strawberry slices can help reduce unnecessary calories without sacrificing treat time.
Skin and oral health
Vitamin C and manganese in strawberries boost immune and metabolic health, while malic acid helps keep teeth cleaner by reducing surface buildup.
Phytonutrients in strawberries
Strawberries also contain phytonutrients — plant-based compounds that support health beyond basic nutrition. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition indicates that these compounds help protect cells, reduce inflammation, and support metabolism and immune balance in dogs.
“Plain, unsweetened strawberries are one of the most beneficial, nutrient-dense foods you can share with your dog.”
Dr. Lea Engelman, DVM
How to safely feed your dog strawberries
Most dogs can safely eat plain fresh, frozen, dried, and freeze-dried strawberries in small amounts.
Fresh, frozen, dried, and freeze-dried strawberries
Fresh strawberries
Fresh strawberries are the best and simplest choice for your dog. They make a refreshing, hydrating snack or training reward. For a fun enrichment activity, mash strawberries and spread them on a lick mat.
Frozen strawberries
Dogs can eat frozen strawberries if they are plain fruit with no added sugar, syrups, or preservatives.
Dried strawberries
Dogs can have plain, unsweetened dried strawberries, but only in very small amounts (see below). Avoid any dried strawberries with added sugar, flavoring, chocolate, or other coatings.
Freeze-dried strawberries
Dogs can have freeze-dried strawberries, provided they’re unsweetened and contain only the fruit. Keep in mind that freeze-drying concentrates natural sugars, so it’s best to feed them in smaller amounts (see below).
How to prepare strawberries for dogs?
A few simple steps will help ensure strawberries are safe and easy for your dog to enjoy.
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Wash thoroughly
It’s important that fresh berries are washed well to remove dirt, pesticide residue, and debris before offering them to your dog. They can be rinsed in cool water or soaked in a solution of water and mild disinfectant, such as a small amount of white vinegar, and then rinsed. -
Remove tops and stems
Cut off the leafy tops and stems. While not toxic, they are tough to digest and could cause stomach upset. -
Cut into small pieces
Slice strawberries into bite-sized chunks, especially for small dogs or puppies, to prevent choking. Larger dogs can handle slightly bigger pieces, but it’s best to avoid serving whole strawberries.
How many strawberries can a dog eat?
As with any new food, follow the “10% guideline” here: Treats shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories, or they can throw off the balance of their regular diet. Strawberries are low in calories, but eating too many can still cause stomach problems. Start with a small amount and watch your dog’s stool and appetite as you introduce them.
Calorie guidance: One medium strawberry (approximately 12 grams) contains about 4 calories.
Suggested portion sizes: fresh or frozen strawberries
Fresh and frozen strawberries can be fed in the same portions, provided they are plain fruit with no added sugar or syrups.
- Small dogs (under 20 pounds): 1–2 sliced strawberries
- Medium dogs (20–50 pounds): 2–3 sliced strawberries
- Large dogs (over 50 pounds): up to 4–5 sliced strawberries
Suggested portion sizes: dried strawberries
Dried strawberries should only be offered occasionally. Choose unsweetened products with no added sugar, oils, or sweeteners, and break large slices into smaller pieces before feeding.
- Small dogs (under 20 pounds): up to ½–1 small, dried piece, or a small portion of a larger slice
- Medium dogs (20–50 pounds): up to 1–2 small, dried pieces, or part of a larger slice
- Large dogs (over 50 pounds): up to 2–3 small, dried pieces, or part of a larger slice
Suggested portion sizes: freeze-dried strawberries
Only choose freeze-dried strawberries that are 100% fruit and free of additives such as sugar or sweeteners.
- Small dogs (under 20 pounds): up to ½–1 whole freeze-dried strawberry per day
- Medium dogs (20–50 pounds): up to 1–2 whole freeze-dried strawberries per day
- Large dogs (over 50 pounds): up to 2–3 whole freeze-dried strawberries per day
Because both dried and freeze-dried strawberries are much more calorie-dense than fresh fruit, always check the ingredient list and calorie content on the package. Make sure all treats combined stay under 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
Feeding frequency
Strawberries can be offered daily within the suggested portion sizes for your dog. If your dog also gets other fruits or treats, it is best to rotate them and offer strawberries only a few times per week. If you notice any digestive upset, such as vomiting, loose stools, diarrhea, or itching, stop immediately and consult your veterinarian.
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Which dogs should not eat strawberries?
Like people, every dog is unique, with their own health needs and sensitivities. Strawberries are generally safe, but some dogs should be given them with caution or shouldn’t have them unless a veterinarian says it’s okay.
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Puppies
Can have strawberries, but only small pieces (¼–½ strawberry at first). Their digestive systems are still developing, so gradual introduction is key. -
Senior dogs
May benefit from the antioxidants in strawberries, which can help counter oxidative stress. However, older dogs often have more sensitive digestion, so keep servings modest and monitor for any stress or discomfort. -
Dogs with allergies and sensitivities to strawberries
Although rare, some dogs may be allergic to strawberries. Possible signs include itching, swelling around the mouth, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop feeding strawberries immediately and contact your veterinarian. -
Dogs with special health considerations
If your dog has diabetes or kidney disease, talk to your veterinarian before adding strawberries to their diet. While these berries are lower in sugar than many fruits, the natural fructose could still interfere with some medical conditions.
Which strawberries should dogs not eat?
Strawberries become unhealthy for dogs when they’re turned into products made for people. Most contain sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, or other sweeteners that are unhealthy for dogs. The most dangerous of these is xylitol, a common sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs. Even tiny amounts can trigger life-threatening hypoglycemia and liver failure. Chocolate, often paired with strawberries, is also toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, tremors, or seizures.
These foods should never be fed to dogs:
- Strawberry cake, scones, and other baked goods: Not safe. These treats are loaded with sugar and fat and may also contain chocolate or artificial sweeteners.
- Strawberry jams and preserves: Avoid. They are very high in sugar and often made with high-fructose corn syrup. Some sugar-free versions may contain xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs. It is safest to avoid all strawberry jams and preserves.
- Canned strawberries: Avoid. They are usually packed in sugary syrup or sweetened juice, making them too high in sugar for dogs.
- Strawberry ice cream: Off limits. It is high in sugar and fat, and many dogs are lactose-intolerant, which can lead to diarrhea or vomiting.
- Strawberry yogurt: Not recommended. Most flavored yogurts contain added sugar or artificial sweeteners. Some “light” or sugar-free products may include ingredients that are unsafe for dogs.
- Yogurt-covered strawberries: Don’t feed. The yogurt used to cover strawberries is typically sweetened with large amounts of sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, or sweeteners.
- Chocolate-covered strawberries: Never feed. Chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, tremors, or seizures, even in small amounts.
Conclusion
Plain, unsweetened strawberries make a light, healthy treat when offered in fresh, frozen, dried, or freeze-dried form. Naturally sweet, low in calories, and rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, they’re a wholesome alternative to processed snacks. They support immune strength, digestion, hydration, weight balance, and even oral hygiene.
Avoid strawberries prepared for humans, as they often contain added ingredients that may be unhealthy or even toxic to dogs. Consult your veterinarian before giving strawberries to dogs with special health considerations.
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