Can dogs eat Blueberries?

September 22, 2022
by Dr. Evelyn Kass, DVM
animal veterinarian with over 30 years experience in all aspects of veterinary medicine
Are Blueberries Safe For Dogs?

Yes, dogs can eat blueberries. In fact, blueberries contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that may be beneficial to your dog's health and, because of their size, blueberries are not considered a choking hazard for any breeds. Continue reading below for more information. 

Please note that before introducing any new food into your dog's diet, you should consult your veterinarian.

Are blueberries good for dogs?

Blueberries are low in calories and contain high amounts of vitamin C, fiber, and phytochemicals (naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants). Due to the high level of nutrients and antioxidants they provide, blueberries can be an excellent snack for your dog. However, you should keep in mind blueberries are only good for dogs in moderation and as an occasional treat. All treats, including blueberries, should make up only 10% of the calories your dog eats each day.

Blueberries can be a great low-calorie snack for your furry friend because blueberries are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and phytochemicals (naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants). Blueberries contain Vitamin C and fiber which are beneficial for any healthy dog's nutrition, as well as antioxidants which may reduce rates of cancer. 

According to the Dog and Cat Food Ingredient Center, blueberries were found in 29% of the dry dog food recipes. Blueberries are found in nearly 1/3 of dog foods due to their health benefits and ability to preserve dog food.

Keep in mind, as with all snacks, blueberries are best in moderation. All fruits and vegetables should only make up about 20% of your dog's caloric intake. 

Health benefits of blueberries for dogs

  • Excellent source of antioxidants, including flavonoids, proven to combat age-related decline in cognition and reduce rates of cancer
  • High in Vitamin C and Vitamin K for immune system support
  • High water content (86%) for increased hydration
  • High fiber content to support digestion
  • Silicon in blueberries helps strengthen bone and skin structures.
  • Vitamin A promotes eye health and quality of skin, coat, muscles, and nerves
  •  Zinc is necessary for proper metabolic body processes
  • Low in calories, easy to not overindulge

Can blueberries be bad for dogs?

While blueberries are typically safe for dogs, some dogs may respond to fruits differently. For example, the high fiber content of blueberries may improve digestive functions in one dog but upset another dog's stomach. If this is the first time you are giving your dog blueberries, feed them one at a time and monitor their behavior. If your pet is exhibiting strange behavior or signs of an adverse reaction (symptoms of allergic reaction and poisoning can be found later in this article), contact your veterinarian immediately.

Health risks of blueberries

  • Blueberries are high in sugar, so feeding an excess of blueberries may upset your dog’s stomach, causing either constipation or diarrhea
  • Blueberries are high in fiber and dogs with sensitive stomachs are more prone to develop gastrointestinal discomfort and irritability
  • Blueberries are small and don't contain pits, so they do not pose a choking hazard
  • Allergens: most dogs are not allergic to blueberries, but 10% of dogs show intolerance or allergens to new foods. Watch your dog for stomach issues, itchiness, ear inflammation, or hives. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, stop offering the berries and talk to your vet.

Are all berries safe for dogs?

While most dogs can eat blueberries, not all berries can be shared with your furry friend. Some berries can even be toxic for your pet.

Berries that are safe for dogs include:

Now that we know that dogs can eat blueberries, here are other berries that you can also share with your dog:

Berries that are unsafe for dogs include:

Not all berries are safe for dogs, so avoid feeding these to your dog:

  • Mistletoe berries
  • Gooseberries
  • Salmonberries
  • Holly berries
  • Baneberries
  • Pokeberries
  • Juniper berries
  • Dogwood berries

How to feed blueberries to your dog

The amount of blueberries you feed your dog and the way you feed them can have an impact on health. Continue reading below for more information on safe quantities and methods for feeding your dog blueberries.

How many blueberries can I feed my dog?

If you're feeding blueberries to your dog as a treat, remember that treats should only account for 10% of your dog's caloric intake. Dogs can eat blueberries every day, but make sure it's in the right quantity. See the feeding guide below:

Dog Size
Feeding Guide (Max Allowed)
Small Dogs
12 Blueberries per Day
Medium Dogs
50 Blueberries per Day
Large Dogs
100 Blueberries per Day
Extra Large Dogs
150 Blueberries per Day

Safe ways of feeding your dog blueberries

  • Fresh and directly to your dog
  • Freeze them for a cool treat on hot days
  • Sprinkle onto your dog’s food
  • As a daily treat for your pup
  • As an excellent training treat for dogs who love them

Avoid these ways of feeding your dog blueberries

  • Blueberry muffins
  • Blueberry cheesecake
  • Blueberry ice creams
  • Blueberry pancakes
  • Blueberry yogurt
  • Blueberry waffles

What to do if your dog ate blueberries

If your dog ate blueberries, don’t panic. Blueberries are not toxic for dogs in moderation.

However, if your dog is experiencing any of the following symptoms he or she might be having a bad reaction. Consult a veterinarian immediately if your dog is having any of the following symptoms:

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Symptoms of an allergic reaction:

Most dogs are not allergic to blueberries, but blueberries might contain a pesticide or other toxic contaminant that your dog is allergic to.

  • Itchiness
  • Hives
  • Swelling of the face, ears, lips, eyelids, or earflaps
  • Red, inflamed skin
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Sneezing
  • Itchy ears
  • Chronic ear infections
  • Itchy, runny eyes
  • Constant licking

Symptoms of poisoning:

Blueberries are not poisonous for dogs, but if your dog experiences any of the following symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea can occur within hours of consuming a poisonous substance. Vomit and feces may contain pieces of the substance.
  • Lethargy and weakness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dehydration
  • Limited urination or no urination
  • Bad breath
  • Tremors and seizures
  • Coma
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