Maine is famous for its lobster, tourist attractions, rocky coastlines, and wildlife- but we are also known for blueberries! The tiny fruit is bursting with sweet flavors that also brings forth a sense of nostalgia. They conjure memories of blue-stained hands from picking and blue-stained tongues from popping every other one in our mouths. They remind us of the smell of homemade pies, scones, and muffins coming out of the oven in late summer. And they are proof that sometimes the best ingredients are the simple ones you can find right in your own backyard!
For our pets, this super fruit provides an abundance of benefits! Veterinarians and canine nutritionists have determined that blueberries are safe for dogs to eat. Blueberries contain many antioxidants, phytochemicals, and vitamins that are essential for both canine and human health. Served fresh or frozen, blueberries are a nutritious snack you and your dog can share together!
Blueberries contain powerful nutritional bonuses for dogs! The phytochemicals that occur naturally may combat cancers. The phytochemical compound, polyphenol, supports cardiovascular health. Antioxidants also help fight inflammation and cancer-causing free radicals, such as pollution, in both humans and dogs! The benefits of reducing inflammation in dogs can minimize brain aging and lessen arthritis pain.
Vitamins in blueberries, such as C and K, promote a stronger immune system. Blueberries also contain fiber that contributes to digestive health and regular bowel movements. Healthy amounts of fiber are essential for heart and gut health. It also helps keep humans and dogs feeling fuller for longer when incorporated into snacks and meals! Trace elements such as calcium, iron, zinc, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus, which aren’t always available in the meat, are present in blueberries!
Even though blueberries are perfectly healthy for your dog to eat, consider the following pointers on safety, quantities, and preparation!
- Be Safe: When feeding something new, especially human food, always consult your vet to ensure those choices are suitable for your dog’s unique constitution. Some foods that are fine for humans to consume, such as chocolate and grapes, can be poisonous or fatal to dogs.
- Feed Blueberries in Moderation: Always feed your dog a 100 percent complete and balanced diet and take into account snacks and treats. No matter what food you offer, consider your dog’s breed, size, age, and lifestyle. Also, consider monitoring your dog while he’s eating the berries. Because they’re small, some people think they are easy for dogs to eat; others consider blueberries a choking hazard.
- Picking and Preparing Berries for Your Dog: If possible, buy sustainably-raised blueberries to avoid pesticides and herbicides. For fresh berries, discard old, dried out, or moldy berries. Wash them carefully to remove dirt, germs, manure, and herbicide and pesticide residue.
- Gradually Introduce Blueberries: As with any new food, gradually incorporate blueberries into your dog’s diet. Give him two to three and watch for any negative reactions, stomach upset, vomiting, itching, or loose stools. If he seems fine, try giving two to three berries a couple of times a day. Work up to a handful a day or up to 10-12 berries.
We have many blueberry flavored products in our stores you can try!
Honest Kitchen's Goat's Milk N' Cookies Blueberry and Vanilla treats are slow baked in small batches and are full of probiotics to support a happy belly!
Friendship Lobster Blueberry Treats for Salty Dogs are a homemade treat with only human grade ingredients and no preservatives! Dog tested and dog approved, these treats are made with Maine blueberries and pumpkin!
Fromm Blueberry Blast Crunchy O's mix chicken, blueberries, and a touch of tapioca together in a delicious blend. These grain free treats are only 2 calories per treat making it the perfect guilt-free treating and training snack!
Fruitables Pumpkin & Blueberry treats use a delicious combination of organic ingredients and are only 8 calories a piece! perfect for guilt-free treating and training!
Primal's Blueberry Pom Burst Goat Milk is a nutrient-rich hydration option for both cats and dogs! Loaded with pomegranate and blueberries- these ingredients are known to provide antioxidants for immunity support!
*The information used to create this blog post came from Darwin's Natural Pet Product's article called "Dogs and Blueberries: The Good, The Bad, & The Berry"