Dog Tips

Can Dogs Eat Blackberries?

Your pet is your family; you want to be careful about what you’re feeding them. Dogs can’t eat many of the foods we include in our diets. Knowing that your beloved pet might eat something that isn’t safe is a little scary. 

One of the best ways to keep your furry friend safe is by doing your research before feeding them a new food. You’re in the right place if you have been wondering, can my dog eat blackberries? 

Blackberries are a must-have for plenty of human snacks. However, just because it’s safe for you doesn’t mean that your dog can join you for snack time. Being mindful about the food you give your pet could help ensure that you and your pup don’t have to take any unexpected trips to the hospital. 

Although blackberries seem innocent enough, you’d be surprised to learn more about some of the foods dogs are unable to eat. Today, you will learn everything you need to know about blackberries and whether they’re safe for dogs. 

Learn more about which other fruits are safe for your dog and how you can incorporate those fruits into your dog’s diet. 

Can your dog eat blackberries? 

It is safe for your dog to eat blackberries. However, just because your pup can eat these sweet berries does not mean that you should feed them an entire bucket of blackberries in one sitting. As always, use your pet parent discretion when you’re making dietary decisions for your beloved pooch. 

If your dog had a bad reaction to blackberries in the past, steer clear of them until you consult with your vet. Some pets have sensitivities to certain foods. You never want to feed your dog something that will hurt their belly. If you feel that your dog is intolerant to blackberries, you can simply remove these berries from their diet and ensure they don’t snag any.

Which are some potential health benefits associated with blackberries for dogs? 

Okay, so we know blackberries are safe for your dog to consume, but they are healthy for your pup? 

Not only will your dog be okay if they accidentally sneak a blackberry or two from your fruit salad, but blackberries could also offer dogs several health benefits that are worth exploring. Here’s what you need to know about the potential health benefits associated with feeding your dog blackberries.

Low in calories

Blackberries are notably low in calories. This means that you can add them as a topping to your dog’s regular kibble. You’re not derailing any healthy eating plans you might have for your beloved pet. 

High in vitamins and nutrients 

Blackberries also score health points for the vitamins and nutrients they contain, specifically fiber, vitamin C, and K for dogs.  

Nutrients found in blackberries are critical for your dog to maintain their state of health. Like with their human counterparts, fiber in a dog’s diet can help with regular digestive tract maintenance. This complex carbohydrate is unique because it resists digestion in your dog’s small intestines. Fiber is usually fermented in your pet’s large intestine so it takes significantly more time for your pet to digest than simple carbs. 

Fiber has other functions for dogs, too. It is helpful for digestion, but it’s also useful for dogs that need to regulate their blood glucose levels. In addition, it could even help them with weight loss if necessary, as fiber increases your dog’s bulk while helping them feel fuller — even if they are eating less. 

Vitamin C is also an essential antioxidant for your pet’s well-being. This is another reason why blackberries are a healthy snack for loving pet owners to feed their furry friends. 

Vitamin C is tasked with scavenging potentially harmful free radicals found in your pet’s body. From there, it could help soothe inflammation and potentially slow cognitive aging. Interestingly enough, vitamin C can actually be synthesized in your dog’s liver. For some dogs, supplementation could help your pet to reap the full benefits associated with vitamin C. 

Last but certainly not least, blackberries also contain manganese, vitamin K, and water. Manganese is especially important to your pup’s health, as it helps your pet produce energy, metabolize carbs and proteins, and manufacture fatty acids. Not only is it part of plenty of enzymes, but it also contributes to the dog’s bone and joint cartilage maintenance.

How can you feed your dog blackberries? 

Blackberries are safe and delicious for your pet, which means that you might be looking for ways to include blackberries in your dog’s diet. 

Use blackberries as an alternative treat. Instead of purchasing bags of dog treats from your local pet shop, blackberries are a low-calorie option that your dog will love to snack on. 

Be mindful of how much fruit you are giving your dog to eat. Blackberries are a treat for your dog, not a cornerstone of their entire diet. Monitor your dog when they are eating blackberries. These berries are tiny and round. Therefore, your dog could accidentally choke on a blackberry — especially if your pet is on the smaller side. 

Feed your dog fresh or frozen blackberries, so you may want to mix it up a bit and see which they prefer. Be sure that you are thoroughly washing your pet’s berries before you give them the fruit. 

What do you do if your dog eats something unsafe? 

If your dog consumes something unsafe for them, get them immediate medical attention. When it comes to your dog getting their paws on food that they were not supposed to eat, it’s important to act quickly to ensure your pet’s safety. For many people, this means bringing their furry friend to the vet. However, pet insurance plans from Spot can cover eligible vet bills for accidents like food poisoning.

Other Fruits That Are Safe To Eat for Your Dog

Blackberry isn’t the only fruit with health benefits for your canine companion. If your dog tends to turn up its nose at a treat that’s been offered many times before, or if you simply want to add variety to their diet, you can try these fruits as well:

Remember that grapes and raisins are never fruits you should feed your dog. These have particular enzymes in them that are toxic to dogs—avoid grapes and raisins around your dog like you avoid chocolate! We have compiled a big list of all the fruits your dogs should eat here.

Dogs can eat sweet potatoes and many other vegetables instead

While incorporating fruit into your furry friend’s diet is fun, make sure that the total amount of treats you are giving your pet is not more than 10 percent of their entire diet. Be sure that you remove any pits or seeds and cut up the larger fruits for your pet so that they are digestible and do not pose a choking hazard. 

Sources

  • Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can or Can’t Eat | American Kennel Club

  • Can Dogs Eat Blackberries? | The Spruce Pets 

  • Influence of a high fibre diet on glycaemic control and quality of life in dogs with diabetes mellitus | NCBI 

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