Blueberries are a sweet, nutritious snack for humans — but can our dogs enjoy them too? The answer is yes — blueberries for dogs can be a healthy, tasty treat when served properly. Whether they’re fresh blueberries or frozen blueberries, these bite-sized berries are packed with health benefits that make them a great addition to your dog’s balanced diet.
For pet parents looking for healthy snacks that go beyond biscuits, blueberries might just be your new go-to.
Health Benefits of Blueberries for Dogs
Blueberries are often labelled a superfood — and for good reason. They’re rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber, which can help support your dog’s overall wellbeing.
Here’s what makes them a great snack for dogs:
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🫐 Antioxidants – Help prevent cell damage and promote healthy ageing
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🫐 Vitamin C & K – Support immunity, bone health, and skin condition
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🫐 Dietary fiber – Aids in digestion and reduces risk of stomach upset
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🫐 Low in calories – Great for dogs on a weight management plan
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🫐 Natural sugars – A safer sweet option than processed treats like blueberry muffins or blueberry pie
Just a few berries can deliver real nutritional benefits — but remember, moderation is key.
How to Feed Blueberries to Dogs
✅ Portion Sizes
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Small dogs: 2–3 blueberries
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Medium dogs: 4–6 blueberries
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Large dogs: A small handful of blueberries
Too many blueberries — even though they’re a healthy treat — can cause digestive issues due to their sugar content.
✅ Fresh vs. Frozen Blueberries
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Fresh blueberries are quick, convenient, and perfect for on-the-go snacking
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Frozen blueberries are great on hot summer days, offering a cooling treat
Both types are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants.
Wash thoroughly before feeding and avoid any with added sugars or artificial ingredients.
✅ Serving Ideas
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Mix into your dog’s regular food
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Use as training rewards
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Blend into homemade treats with plain yogurt or oats
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Freeze into ice cube trays for a DIY blueberry pupsicle
Avoid blueberry-flavoured human foods like blueberry yogurt, blueberry pancakes, or anything with extra sugars or artificial flavours.
Can Blueberries Be Bad for Dogs?
While generally safe, blueberries can cause problems if overfed or introduced too quickly.
⚠️ Stomach Upset
Dogs with sensitive stomachs might experience vomiting or diarrhoea from the natural sugars.
⚠️ Allergic Reactions
Though uncommon, signs of an allergic reaction can include:
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Itchy skin or ears
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Swelling
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Digestive upset
If you notice any adverse reactions, stop feeding blueberries and consult your vet.
⚠️ Choking Risk
For toy breeds, fresh blueberries can pose a choking hazard. Mash or chop them for safety.
Can Dogs Eat Blueberries Every Day?
Blueberries should be an occasional treat, not a daily staple. While they offer many potential health benefits, too many can affect your dog’s daily diet and cause digestive issues.
Stick to feeding blueberries in moderation, and always make sure they complement a balanced dog food plan.
Other Fruits Dogs Can Safely Eat
If your dog loves fruit, here are more safe fruit options to try — and a few to avoid:
✅ Safe fruits for dogs:
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🍓 Strawberries – Full of Vitamin C and fiber. Serve washed and chopped.
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🥝 Raspberries – Low in sugar and rich in antioxidants.
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🫐 Blackberries – High in vitamins and fiber-rich foods.
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🍎 Apples (no seeds) – A crunchy snack with Vitamin A and C.
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🍌 Bananas – Soft and gentle on digestion; best in small amounts.
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🍉 Watermelon (seedless) – Hydrating and low-calorie.
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🍑 Peaches (no pit) – Tasty but must be pit-free.
❌ Fruits to avoid:
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❌ Grapes & Raisins – Can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts.
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❌ Cherries – Pits contain cyanide and are a serious choking hazard.
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❌ Avocado – Contains persin, which can lead to health issues.
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❌ Citrus fruits – Can cause irritation and upset stomach.
Talk to Your Vet First
Before introducing any human food into your dog’s routine, especially if they have a health condition or sensitive stomach, it’s always a good idea to speak with your vet. They can help you build a balanced diet tailored to your dog’s needs and flag any risks early.
