Can I give my dog raspberries?
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Raspberries are a fruit that owners sometimes want to share with their dogs. These berries are popular in the summer when they’re harvested and widely available.
You may want to confirm that feeding some to a dog isn’t harmful. Others are interested in the potential health benefits. We’ve got it covered, even if Fido got into your raspberry supply on accident!
This fruit is, in fact, healthy in rationed amounts. Raspberries make for a good light snack for dogs. Just don’t overdo it. Let’s discuss the pros and cons in more detail!
Can I Give My Dog Some Raspberries? Answer: Yes, in moderation
It’s a suitable fruity treat. They contain great antioxidants which can be beneficial.
So, you can feed small amounts of raspberries to a best bud. Dogs love to get high-quality fruity treats. There’s little preparation required for serving a few raspberries to a dog. This contrasts with cherries, for example, which require some prepping. Raspberries, much like blueberries, just need to be washed prior to being served.
Just limit your dog’s portion. Raspberries have low levels of Xylitol which could be harmful if too much is consumed. Some more on this later…
Raspberry’s Nutritional Value
Besides the powerful antioxidant factor, what stands out about raspberries is the high levels of vitamin C. While this is great, most dogs don’t need any extra since their bodies produce their own vitamin-C.
Video: Dog hates blowing raspberries.
But it doesn’t end there since decent amounts of manganese and fiber are found in each raspberry. As a bonus, they’re also low in sugar and calories.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The best thing about raspberries is the anti-inflammatory aspect as it relates to common canine problems. If you have an older dog, this could be a valuable health benefit.
Arthritis is probably the number one problem associated with geriatric dogs. Some fruits, and this berry in particular, may help to reduce inflammation and the resulting symptoms.
Xylitol the Biggest Downside
Raspberries are generally safe, tasty and healthy for dogs. That, however, is not the full story. Consider that canine consumption of this red berry is relatively expensive. A handful won’t satisfy most larger dogs.
Video: Bunny Eating Raspberries!
Known botanically as Rubus idaeus, raspberies won’t do a great job of filling up Fido’s stomach. You shouldn’t feed a lot anyway. Xylitol occurs naturally in this berry. While Xylitol is dangerous for dogs, the amount in raspberries isn’t a concern if you limit portions.
This isn’t a miracle food even though it’s healthy. Depending too much on raspberries, or any berries, when it comes to your dog’s diet is not appropriate.
The Raspberry Realistically
Raspberries are wonderful as a good treat. That doesn’t mean you should feed them to a dog on a daily basis. Limit portions to an amount that’s snack size for reasons we’ve outlined.
Video: He is giving the dog "raspberries"
Be careful of creating bad feeding habits. Some dogs come to expect human foods and shun their normal chow after awhile.
Dogs need protein in their diets more than anything else. Meat should be the basis of daily meals. Appropriate fruits can complement this mainstay. Start out small if you’ve never given raspberries to your dog.
Provide a very small portions until you know it agrees with their stomach.
Conclusion on Raspberries
You can feed your dog raspberries. It may be healthy in addition to their diet, and satisfy your dog’s desire for a summertime treat. Raspberries and their juicy pulp contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. These may help dogs with arthritis. This berry can be a healthy doggie snack when given in moderation.