Introduction
One of the most common questions I get asked is can dogs eat blueberries. The answer is yes, but there are a few things you should know about this delicious fruit before giving it to your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Blueberries
Yes, dogs can eat blueberries. They are a nutritious fruit that is high in antioxidants and vitamins A, C and K. Frozen blueberries also contain some probiotics which can aid digestion.
However, if your dog eats too many blueberries or any other fruit or vegetable then it may cause him to have diarrhea or vomiting. This is especially true for dogs that are not accustomed to eating fruits or vegetables at all (such as those raised on commercial food).
What are the benefits of eating blueberries for dogs?
Blueberries are great for dogs because they’re a good source of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules that can damage cells. Free radicals can lead to cancer, heart disease and other health problems.
Blueberries also have benefits for heart health because they contain anthocyanins, which are anti-inflammatory compounds that help prevent plaque buildup in blood vessels. They’re also good for brain health by promoting nerve growth factor production in the brain. This helps improve short-term memory function and prevent cognitive decline as you age.[1]
In addition to being rich in antioxidants, blueberries may have some antiviral properties as well: studies show that they may inhibit replication of influenza A virus (the flu) in vitro.[2]
Studies have shown that blueberry extract inhibits activity of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), an enzyme involved in inflammation.[3] This suggests that blueberry extracts could be used therapeutically to treat inflammatory diseases such as arthritis or asthma.[4] Blueberry extracts may also provide protection against sunburns[5]. Plus, recent research has shown that eating 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries daily reduces oxidative stress markers!
How many blueberries can a dog eat?
The answer to the question of how many blueberries your dog can eat depends on a few different factors. First, consider the size of your dog and how much food he or she usually eats in one sitting. You should also keep in mind that some dogs are more prone to allergies than others, so if you’re worried about giving them something new, consult with your vet first.
In general, though, it’s safe for dogs to consume small amounts of blueberries without any side effects—but no more than 30 grams per day (about 1 ounce).
Takeaway:
Are blueberries good for dogs?
Yes! Blueberries are safe for dogs to eat and can help with digestion, allergies, arthritis and urinary tract infections. They may also aid in weight loss. However, you should always check with your vet before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet.
Conclusion
So, can dogs eat blueberries? The answer is yes. Blueberries are a healthy fruit for your dog to eat and there are many benefits of eating blueberries for dogs. However, before giving them any you should check with your vet first because some of them may have allergies or other health problems that could make it dangerous.
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