Yes, dogs can eat blackberries. As always, fruits should be shared with dogs in moderation. When it comes to the daily calorie intake for your dog, sugary items such as fruit should only comprise about ten percent.
However, the specific needs of your dog can vary. Always confer with your veterinarian before establishing or changing your dog’s diet.
Are blackberries good for dogs?
Not all of the health benefits from healthy human snacks translate over to our dogs. For instance, blackberries are rich in Vitamin C, which is great for humans. Dogs, however, produce Vitamin C on their own, without needing to ingest it.
Lower in sugar than some other fruits, blackberries are also packed with fiber, water, vitamin K, and manganese, though. Plus, they’re very low in calories and fat, which makes them a great choice for occasional healthy treats.
It’s important to keep these treats to small doses, though. Blackberries contain trace amounts of xylitol, a substitute sweetener, which is toxic to dogs. For poisoning to occur, however, your dog would have to eat a substantial amount. A few each day is completely okay.
How can I safely give my dog blackberries?
While blackberries on the whole are safe for dogs, there are additional circumstances and best practices to consider. While sugary treats, such as fruits and berries, are okay in moderation for healthy dogs, these should be avoided by dogs with diabetes. Jams should be avoided for all dogs, in general. They often contain added sugars, additives, and sometimes even concentrated amounts of xylitol.
Now, perhaps you live near blackberry shrubs and are wondering if your dog can freely eat from them. This isn’t a good idea, as these shrubs are sometimes sprayed with pesticides, especially in public recreational areas. When ingested by dogs, they can cause harmful, or even severe, health issues.
To feed your dog blackberries at home, wash them thoroughly. Then, feel free to have a bit of fun with serving them. You can freeze them and stuff them in a toy, or toss them to your dog. You can bake them into homemade doggy treats — just be mindful of all ingredients used.
