Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?

Yes, dogs can eat plain, fresh strawberries. They are not toxic, and a few make a sweet treat. Wash them, remove the stem and leaves, and cut them small. Keep the amount low, because strawberries have natural sugar. Strawberry products like jam and jelly are a different story.

Are strawberries good for dogs?

Strawberries are a low-calorie fruit. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says they have fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Antioxidants are natural plant chemicals that may help the body stay healthy.

They are still a treat, not a meal. The natural sugar matters most for dogs that are overweight or have diabetes. If your dog has either problem, ask your vet before you offer any.

How to serve strawberries to your dog

Follow these steps:

1. Wash the berry well.
2. Take off the stem and leaves. They are not toxic, but the AKC says they can upset your dog’s stomach.
3. Cut the berry into small pieces. A whole berry can cause choking, mostly in small dogs.
4. Try mashing it for a small dog.
5. Freeze the pieces for a cool treat in summer.

How many strawberries can a dog eat?

The AKC says treats should be no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. For most dogs, it suggests one to three berries a day, and fewer for small dogs. Too many berries at once can cause loose stool or diarrhea, so start with a small piece and see how your dog does.

Other kinds of strawberry foods

Is strawberry jam safe for dogs?

No, skip it. Jam is a sweet spread, not a fresh fruit, and the label is the big worry. Pet Poison Helpline lists jams among the foods that can contain xylitol. Xylitol is a sugar-free sweetener that is very dangerous for dogs. Sugar-free jam is the one to worry about most. Check the ingredients, because the amount can differ even between flavors of the same brand.

Is strawberry jelly safe for dogs?

No, skip it. Jelly is a lot like jam, and sugar-free kinds may have xylitol. Pet Poison Helpline lists jams and gelatin snacks as products that can contain it. If your dog got into jelly, read the label. If you see xylitol, call a hotline or your vet.

What about canned strawberries or strawberry-flavored foods?

Avoid them. The AKC says to skip canned strawberries and berries packed in syrup. Products with strawberry flavor may also hold added sugar or xylitol. The ASPCA warns that xylitol is used in many products, including gum, candy, and baked goods. Plain fresh or frozen berries are the better pick.

What if my dog ate a lot of strawberries?

Plain berries are not toxic, so the most likely result is an upset stomach or loose stool. Offer water, and call your vet if your dog seems sick or if the problem does not go away. If the berries came from a jam, jelly, or dessert, check the label for xylitol first.

Other treats to try

Many dogs also like blueberries, banana, or apple slices without the core. See our guides on bananas and apples. For the full list of foods to avoid, read our guide to foods that are toxic to dogs.