Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?
Short answer: yes. Fresh strawberries are safe for dogs in small amounts. They are low in calories, high in water and fiber and have vitamin C. A 30 lb dog can have up to about 20 medium strawberries a day by the 10% treat rule, but a few is plenty.
Why strawberries can be good for dogs
- About 32 kcal per 100 g, so a medium berry is only about 4 kcal.
- Fiber and water help make them a light treat for dogs that need to lose weight.
- Vitamin C and antioxidants (dogs make their own vitamin C, so it is a bonus, not a need).
Risks of strawberries for dogs
- Sugar: too many cause loose stool, and diabetic dogs should skip them.
- Whole berries can be a choking risk for very small dogs: cut them in quarters.
- Avoid canned strawberries in syrup, strawberry yogurt or ice cream, and sugar-free strawberry products that may contain xylitol.
How to serve it
- Wash, remove the green top, and slice or quarter.
- Frozen slices make a cooling summer treat.
- Freeze-dried strawberries are fine in smaller amounts: they are much more concentrated.
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 medium strawberries (about 3.8 kcal each) fit in it if they are the only treat that day.
| Dog's weight | Daily treat budget | Medium strawberries per day |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lb | 35 kcal | up to 9 strawberries |
| 20 lb | 59 kcal | up to 15 strawberries |
| 30 lb | 79 kcal | up to 20 strawberries |
| 50 lb | 116 kcal | up to 30 strawberries |
| 70 lb | 150 kcal | up to 39 strawberries |
| 90 lb | 181 kcal | up to 47 strawberries |
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
Can dogs eat strawberries every day?
Yes, a few a day is fine for most healthy dogs as long as all treats together stay under 10% of daily calories.
Are strawberry leaves toxic to dogs?
The green tops are not toxic, but they are bitter and harder to digest, so it is better to remove them.
Can puppies eat strawberries?
Yes, small pieces are fine once a puppy eats solid food. Introduce new foods one at a time.
More guides
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- Can Dogs Eat Peanut butter?
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- Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?