Can Dogs Eat Blueberries? Antioxidant Treat Guide

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Blueberries have a reputation as a superfood for people, and they are a pleasant, low-calorie treat for dogs. They are small, easy to portion and many dogs love them. Here is what to know.

Nutrition

Blueberries contain fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese and plant compounds called anthocyanins, which act as antioxidants. They are low in fat and calories, around eighty-four calories per cup. They contain natural sugar, but in small servings it is not a concern for most dogs. Dogs on a complete diet do not need blueberries, but they can be a healthy snack.

What does the evidence say?

Claims that blueberries prevent cancer or dramatically improve health in dogs go beyond the evidence. Some small studies in older dogs have looked at antioxidant-rich diets and brain function, with encouraging but limited results. Treat blueberries as a healthy treat, not a medicine. See essential vitamins for dogs.

How many?

Treats should make up no more than about ten percent of daily calories. As a guide:

• Small dogs: two to five berries
• Medium dogs: five to ten berries
• Large dogs: a small handful

Too many can cause gas or loose stools.

Fresh or frozen

Both are fine. Frozen blueberries are a crunchy, cooling snack on hot days, and they last longer. For small dogs, cut or mash berries to avoid choking. Wash fresh berries to remove residues.

Ways to serve

• A few berries as training rewards
• Added to plain yogurt, if tolerated. See yogurt for dogs
• Frozen in ice cube trays with water
• Mixed into homemade dog biscuits
• Dropped into a puzzle toy

Products to avoid

• Blueberry muffins, pancakes and pies, which contain sugar, butter and sometimes xylitol or chocolate chips. See xylitol toxicity.
• Sweetened dried blueberries, high in sugar.
• Blueberry jams and syrups.
• Blueberry-flavored candy and yogurt with sweeteners.

Staining

Blueberries stain, so expect purple stools and the occasional purple tongue or paw print. Purple stool is harmless, though dark, tarry stool can signal bleeding and should be checked by a vet.

Special considerations

• Diabetic dogs: Ask your vet.
• Dogs with sensitive stomachs: Start with a few berries.
• Puppies: Fine in small amounts.
• Dogs prone to bladder stones: Ask your vet before adding new foods.

Other berries

Strawberries are also generally safe. See strawberries for dogs. Avoid wild berries unless you are certain they are safe, as many are toxic.

Blueberries and brain health claims

You may see claims that blueberries boost memory in older dogs. The research behind this is limited, mostly drawn from studies of antioxidant-enriched diets rather than blueberries alone, and results are modest. A healthy weight, regular exercise, mental games and good veterinary care matter far more for ageing dogs. Think of blueberries as a pleasant extra, not as a supplement program.

Growing and buying tips

If you grow your own, wash berries before serving and keep dogs away from sprayed bushes. When buying, choose plain fresh or frozen berries without added sugar. Check mixed frozen fruit bags for grapes or other unsafe fruit, and pick the blueberries out if in doubt. Berries bruise easily, so use fresh ones within a few days or freeze them.

Making a simple blueberry treat

Mash a handful of blueberries with a spoonful of plain, unsweetened yogurt, spoon into silicone molds and freeze. For a baked version, combine blueberries with plain oat flour and an egg, bake as small biscuits and store them in the fridge. Keep portions small, and count each biscuit toward the daily treat limit.

The takeaway

Blueberries are a healthy, low-calorie treat in small amounts. Skip the baked goods, and enjoy fresh or frozen berries together.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.