Can Dogs Eat Blueberries?
Short answer: yes. Blueberries are one of the best fruit treats for dogs: tiny, low in calories (under 1 kcal each) and full of fiber and antioxidants. Many dog food brands add them to their recipes.
Why blueberries can be good for dogs
- About 57 kcal per 100 g, under 1 kcal per berry, so they work well as training treats.
- Fiber, vitamin C and vitamin K, plus antioxidants (anthocyanins).
- Easy to serve fresh or frozen, no peeling or seeds.
Risks of blueberries for dogs
- Too many at once can cause diarrhea from the fiber and sugar.
- Small dogs can choke on frozen berries: thaw or mash them.
- Skip blueberry muffins, pancakes, pies and jams: sugar, fat and sometimes xylitol.
How to serve it
- Rinse fresh or frozen berries and feed them plain.
- For small dogs, cut them in half or mash them into food.
- Dried blueberries are sugar dense: use a few only.
How much per day by dog weight
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of a dog's daily calories. For a spayed or neutered adult dog that budget is shown below, with how many blueberries (about 0.85 kcal each) fit in it if they are the only treat that day.
| Dog's weight | Daily treat budget | Blueberries per day |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lb | 35 kcal | up to 10 blueberries |
| 20 lb | 59 kcal | up to 20 blueberries |
| 30 lb | 79 kcal | up to 30 blueberries |
| 50 lb | 116 kcal | up to 50 blueberries |
| 70 lb | 150 kcal | up to 70 blueberries |
| 90 lb | 181 kcal | up to 90 blueberries |
The amounts for larger dogs are capped below the calorie limit, because fiber, not calories, is what causes trouble with this food.
Start with one or two pieces the first time and watch for an upset stomach. Your own dog's budget is in the dog food calculator (it shows a "treats budget" line).
Check any other food
Not sure about something else in your kitchen? The can dogs eat it checker lists 98 foods as safe, careful or toxic, with the reason for each.
If your dog ate something toxic, call your vet, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center; American Kennel Club food guides; USDA FoodData Central (calories); treat budget from the RER formula used in WSAVA feeding guidance (10% rule).
Try the can dogs eat it? food checker
Enter your own numbers below, or open the full can dogs eat it? food checker with the formula and more examples.
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Your pet may differ: ask your vet. Terms
Frequently asked questions
How many blueberries can a dog eat?
By calories a 20 lb dog could have dozens, but fiber is the real limit. A handful (about one berry per pound of dog weight) is a sensible upper amount for most dogs.
Can dogs eat frozen blueberries?
Yes. Thaw them for small dogs, who can choke on hard frozen berries.
Are blueberries good for dogs?
They are a healthy low calorie treat, but they do not replace a balanced dog food.
More guides
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