Can Dogs Eat Blackberries? – Explained

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Can Dogs Eat Blackberries? - Header

Blackberries are a delicious summer treat, and many people wonder if they’re safe for dogs to eat.

The answer is yes, but like anything else, they should be given in moderation. However, because blackberries contain a relatively low amount of sugar, you can feed them to your dog more liberally compared to other fruits like bananas and apples.

Some dog owners worry that the seeds will harm their dog, but experts say there’s no cause for concern. The seeds are very nutritious, but if you want, you can pick them out before feeding your pooch.


Benefits Of Feeding Your Dog Blackberries

There are plenty of reasons to add blackberries to your dog’s diet:

1. They strengthen the immune system.

Blackberries are rich in antioxidants, so feeding your dog blackberries can strengthen its immune system and help it fight off infections. The antioxidants in blackberries may also reduce your dog’s risk for cancer.

2. They are an excellent source of vitamin C.

Blackberries are packed with vitamin C, which helps reduce potentially harmful free radicals in your dog’s body. It is an immune booster and preventative agent.

Vitamin C also plays an important role in the production of collagen which reduces the risk of hip dysplasia, joint diseases and spinal disorders.

3. They promote weight loss.

Blackberries aren’t just good for dogs who need to gain weight; they’re also perfect for dogs who need to lose a few pounds. That’s because blackberries are low in calories and high in fiber, which means feeding your dog blackberries can help them maintain a healthy weight.

4. They fight inflammation.

Eating foods that are high in antioxidants is proven to reduce inflammation caused by conditions like arthritis or irritable bowel syndrome. This makes blackberries a very beneficial fruit for dogs who suffer from these health issues.

5. They’re great for the digestive system.

Blackberries promote digestive health by encouraging the growth of friendly bacteria in your dog’s gut. The fiber they contain also helps your dog develop a consistent and healthy routine of bowel movements.

6. They’re great for diabetic dogs.

One cup of blackberries contains just 62 calories. Thus, because of their relatively low caloric and sugar content, they are ideal for diabetic dogs when fed in moderation — certainly more so than other kinds of fruits.

Blackberries also have a very low glycemic index of 25, which means they are unlikely to spike blood sugar levels.

7. They’re good for dogs with pancreatitis.

Dogs with pancreatitis should avoid refined carbs and high-sugar foods that can spike insulin levels.

Fortunately, blackberries contain anthocyanins that slow down digestion and prevent spikes in blood sugar, making them safe to feed to dogs with this condition.


A Warning To Keep In Mind

Three blackberries on the vine

While blackberries are a very beneficial food in general, one of their main issues is that they can cause stomach aches and diarrhea.

Dogs who eat too many blackberries may experience abdominal bloating, pain, or diarrhea. This is especially true for older dogs, puppies, and dogs who are sick with another condition.

Contributing to this is the high fiber content of blackberries. If your dog consumes too much fiber, it can become difficult for them to absorb minerals.


Conclusion

Giving your dog blackberries can be great for their health, but as with any other food, it’s important not to give excessive amounts. Letting your dog eat a few here and there is perfectly fine, and in fact, these berries are preferable over the majority of fruits.

It’s always a good idea to talk with your vet before giving your dog blackberries for the first time, just in case they have any health issues that may make them more susceptible to complications if they eat them.


Thanks for reading. Are you considering feeding your dog blackberries? Feel free to share your story in the comments below.

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