Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?

Yes, in moderation

Serve small amounts, and not every day.

Are strawberries safe for dogs?

Strawberries are sweet red berries with tiny seeds on the outside, sold fresh, frozen or canned. Strawberries are safe for most dogs in small amounts. They are sweet, so they should be an occasional treat rather than a daily snack.

How to serve strawberries to your dog

Wash them and remove the stems and leaves
Cut them into small pieces, and thaw frozen berries first because whole frozen ones can be a choking risk
Offer one or two berries at most

What to avoid

Strawberries in syrup, jam or sweetened yogurt
Chocolate-covered strawberries, because chocolate is toxic to dogs

How many strawberries can my dog have?

Treats, including strawberries, should stay under about 10% of your dog's daily calories. As a rough starting point, small dogs can have 1 to 2 bite-size pieces, medium dogs 2 to 4, and large dogs a small handful. Introduce them slowly and do not make them a daily habit.

Signs your dog may be having a problem

Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.

Emergency? Call your vet or an animal poison hotline straight away: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 (US numbers, a consultation fee may apply).

Frequently asked questions

Can puppies eat strawberries?

Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding strawberries. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.

What if my dog ate too many strawberries?

The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".

How often can my dog have strawberries?

Treat them as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult dog, and less for small ones.