Pet parents who want to treat their furry friends well often turn to fresh foods in search of healthier snack and treat options for dogs. While fruits can seem like a nutritious choice, not all are suitable for dogs. Strawberries have a sweet taste and vibrant color, but are they actually safe and beneficial for dogs?
This guide is for pet parents who want to know whether dogs can eat strawberries and how to introduce a new food safely. We’ll outline the potential benefits and risks and provide guidance on serving sizes and preparation so you can confidently decide if and how strawberries and other human foods can be included as safe, nutritious treats for your dog.
Are strawberries good for dogs?
Are strawberries safe for dogs? Strawberries can be good for dogs as part of a balanced diet, but they should never replace complete, nutritional dog food. While strawberries contain vitamins, antioxidants, and water, which can support overall health, not every dog needs fruit in their diet.
Can strawberries be bad for dogs? 4 considerations.
While strawberries are generally safe for dogs, there are certain situations where they can cause problems. Understanding these risks helps pet parents offer their dog strawberries responsibly, keep their dog safe, and avoid preventable health issues.
Choking risk
Whole or large strawberry pieces can be tough for dogs to eat and pose a choking hazard, especially for small dogs, puppies, or dogs that eat quickly. Always cut strawberries into bite-sized pieces appropriate for your dog’s size before serving.
Digestive upset from overfeeding or eating stems and leaves
Too many strawberries may cause gas, diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort due to their fiber and natural sugar content. Stems and leaves are difficult to digest, so they should always be removed, and portions kept small.
Risks of high-sugar or sweetened strawberries
Canned or sweetened strawberries often contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners that can lead to weight gain and blood sugar issues, and some, like xylitol, are toxic to dogs. Only fresh, plain strawberries should be offered.
Allergic or itching reactions in sensitive dogs
Are dogs allergic to strawberries? Some dogs may experience mild allergic reactions such as itching, skin redness, or digestive upset. Introduce strawberries in small amounts and discontinue use if any adverse symptoms appear.
Health benefits of feeding strawberries to dogs
In moderation, feeding your dog strawberries can offer meaningful health benefits for dogs. While they are not a necessary part of a dog’s diet, adding strawberries to your DIY dog food meal prep routine can make for a nutritious, refreshing treat when prepared and portioned correctly.
Antioxidants that support overall health
Strawberries contain antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals in the body. These compounds support cellular health and may contribute to healthy aging, particularly in older dogs. Antioxidants also play a role in supporting the immune system and reducing oxidative stress.
Vitamins and fiber
Strawberries provide small amounts of vitamins, including vitamin C, as well as dietary fiber. Why do dogs need fiber? It supports healthy digestion and can help regulate bowel movements when strawberries are fed in limited amounts. While dogs naturally produce vitamin C, adding a healthy source of vitamins can be beneficial.
Hydration from high water content
Strawberries can help support hydration since they have a high water content, which can be especially refreshing during warmer weather or after physical activity. This makes them a yummy, fresh treat option compared to dry, processed snacks.
Natural sweetness as a Low-calorie treat
Strawberries have a naturally sweet flavor without the high-calorie count of many commercial dog treats. This makes them a good alternative for dogs that need lower-calorie rewards or are on a weight management plan.
How many strawberries can a dog eat?
The amount of strawberries a dog can eat depends on their size, activity level, and overall diet. Strawberries should make up only a small portion of your dog’s diet, and treated as an occasional snack rather than a regular meal component. As a general rule, treats (including fruit) should account for no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories.
Recommended portion sizes
| Dog Size | Suggested Serving Size |
| Small dogs | 1–2 small strawberry slices |
| Medium dogs | 2–3 strawberries, cut up |
| Large dogs | 3–5 strawberries, cut into pieces |
How often should you feed dogs strawberries?
Most dogs can safely enjoy strawberries a few times per week when served in appropriate portions. If your dog is new to strawberries, start with a small amount and observe how they respond before offering them again.
How to safely feed strawberries to dogs
Follow these simple preparation steps to safely serve strawberries as a healthy treat for your pup:
- Wash berries thoroughly to remove pesticides or dirt
- Remove stems and strawberry leaves, which can be tough for your pup to digest or get stuck in their teeth
- Cut or mash berries into small, bite-sized pieces appropriate for your dog’s size
- Serve plain, with no added ingredients.
- Avoid canned strawberries and strawberry yogurt, which can be high in sugar or contain syrups or sweeteners, like xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs.
For a fun twist, you can use frozen strawberries and plain, unsweetened yogurt as cool, DIY summer treats for your pup.
Healthy treat alternatives to strawberries
If you’re looking for safe, non-fruit treat options to feed your dog, these are some wholesome choices that pet parents love.
Pumpkin Dog Treats – a great hypoallergenic choice that’s gentle on sensitive stomachs and ideal for dogs of all ages to support digestive health.
Chicken Apple Bark Dog Treats – balanced flavor and a major protein boost make these treats especially good for active adult dogs or as a training treat for puppies.
Salmon Bark Dog Treats – these treats provide healthy omega-3s that support skin and coat health, great for dogs with dry skin or those in need of a nutritious, limited-ingredient snack.
Give your dog complete nutrition with JustFoodForDogs
Treats should always complement, not replace, a diet formulated to meet your dog’s full nutritional requirements. JustFoodForDogs offers fresh, whole-food meals that are carefully balanced and veterinarian-formulated to meet your dog’s needs. Made with human-grade ingredients and backed by nutritional science, these recipes support dogs at every stage of life, from growing puppies to active adults and seniors. Pairing complete meals with thoughtfully chosen treats helps ensure your dog gets both enjoyment and optimal nutrition.
Frequently asked questions about feeding dogs strawberries
Yes, canned strawberries are not safe for dogs because they often contain added sugars, syrups, or preservatives that can cause diarrhea, digestive issues, and weight gain. Some may also include artificial sweeteners that are dangerous for dogs, like xylitol.
Dogs can eat frozen strawberries if they are plain and cut into small pieces. Frozen strawberries can be a refreshing treat, but they should be introduced slowly to avoid an upset stomach.
Lots of dogs can safely enjoy other fruits such as blueberries, apple slices, bananas, and watermelon, which also contain vitamins and minerals that are part of a healthy diet. Always feed your dog fruits and new foods in moderation, and be prepared to remove any potentially harmful parts.
Final Thoughts: Should your dog eat strawberries?
Can dogs eat strawberries? Yes—when given in moderation, strawberries are a safe, tasty way for dogs to enjoy fruits while gaining extra vitamins, fiber, and hydration. They not only make a low-calorie alternative to commercial dog treats, but can also be a fun addition to your dog’s diet.
That said, strawberries and other fruits are not a substitute for complete, balanced nutrition. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods, serve them safely, and start slowly to ensure your dog tolerates them well.
Sources:
“Diets to Boost Immunity.” 2025. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. 2025. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-topics/diets-boost-immunity.
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.
