Your dog is looking at the breakfast bowl with those eyes. You’re eating blueberries. You know the look. And the question comes to mind for the hundredth time: Are blueberries good for dogs?
Short answer? Yeah, they are. Dogs can eat blueberries, and most of them love them. They’re full of good things like antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Low in calories, too. But before you start throwing up handfuls to your pup, there are a few things to know about doing it well.
Why They’re Actually Healthy
Blueberries aren’t just safe. They’re good for dogs. A 2025 experiment in dogs in Spain tested Beagles and found they had lower stress markers when fed blueberries, and that the dogs voluntarily continued to eat the blueberry food over regular grub when given a choice.
The antioxidants fight free radicals. Those are things that damage cells and cause cancer, heart problems, and aging. Exercise results in even more free radicals, so active dogs benefit even more.
There’s vitamin C for immune health, vitamin K for bones and blood clotting, and vitamin A for eyes. Fiber helps digestion. Minerals such as manganese, potassium, calcium, and magnesium keep muscles and bones in the right working order. Blueberries contain just 15 grams of sugar per cup, which is quite low for a fruit.
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How Many Blueberries for Dogs Can You Give
Small dogs get a maximum of two blueberries a day. Large dogs can have up to 10. That’s for daily feeding.
The 10% rule also applies here. Treats should not make up more than 10% of the daily caloric limit for your dog. The other 90% is dog food, per se.
Begin with one or two if your dog doesn’t have any experience with them. Some dogs have sensitive stomachs. Too many berries can sometimes cause diarrhea or a stomachache. Better to test it out first.
Blueberries are great for training treats. They are small and low-calorie; you can give one at a time without overfeeding during a long session.
Can Dogs Eat Blueberries Everyday
Yep. Small dogs can have two daily; large dogs, up to 10. Just remember they’re treats, not meals. Account for those calories in their overall diet.
How to Actually Feed Them
Fresh blueberries work great. Wash them first to get rid of pesticides. Most dogs will eat them straight up.
Frozen blueberries are awesome on hot days. Some dogs like the crunch. They last forever in your freezer too.
Skip canned blueberries. They come in syrup with tons of sugar that’ll upset your dog’s stomach. Stick to fresh or frozen.
You can mash them into regular food, freeze them in ice cubes, or blend them into homemade treats if you’re feeling ambitious.
Dried blueberries are okay, but watch out. Store-bought ones usually have preservatives and added sugar. If you want them dried, make them yourself with a dehydrator.
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Watch for Choking
The size of blueberries is small, and this is a very good thing. But little dogs or those that inhale their food without chewing could choke. Observe your dog the first few times.
Got a really small dog? Cut the blueberries in half. Sounds silly, but beats a vet emergency.
Are Blueberries Good for Dogs Skin
If your dog has itchy skin or a lackluster coat, blueberries could be just the ticket. Antioxidants are good for the immune system and your skin.
Many of the vitamins help maintain overall health, and that will have a payoff in soft skin and shiny fur. No miracle, but it does help over time.
Are Blueberries Good for Dogs with Allergies
Antioxidants may also be beneficial for dogs with allergies. But some dogs are allergic to the blueberries themselves. It’s rare, but it happens.
Look for signs such as itchiness or swelling in and around the face, hives, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you notice this post-feeding of blueberries, stop and call your vet.
When you first introduce blueberries, feed one or two and then wait 24 hours before giving more.
Special Cases
Dogs with diabetes should not eat high-sugar fruits. If your dog is diabetic, talk to your vet first.
Dogs receiving prescription diets should follow the vet’s advice. Don’t add treats without checking.
Dogs with kidney issues may benefit from blueberries because they are low in phosphorus, but again, you’ll need to consult your vet.
Other Safe Fruits
Can dogs eat strawberries? Yeah. Same rules about moderation and washing them. Cut them smaller since they’re bigger than blueberries.
Apples without seeds are safe. Bananas, watermelon without seeds or rind, and cantaloupe. All good.
Never give grapes or raisins. Those are toxic and can cause kidney failure.
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What Vets Think
For the most part, vets are okay with using blueberries as treats. They are natural, healthy, and much safer than store-bought treats filled with strange ingredients.
But every dog’s different. Age, size, and health issues all matter. Got questions or a dog with health problems? Double-check with your vet before introducing new foods.
If your dog is exhibiting strange symptoms after eating blueberries, such as persistent digestive issues, excessive gas, unusual tiredness, or changes in appetite, give your vet a call. It certainly wasn’t the blueberries, but worth checking.
Bottom Line
Are blueberries good for dogs? For most dogs, yeah. They’re a healthy treat with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber without tons of calories. Fresh or frozen, both work.
Stick to the right portions for your dog’s size. Watch for allergic reactions the first time. Skip canned stuff with syrup. Keep treats to 10% or less of daily calories. A few blueberries a day are fine for most dogs. A whole pint? You’re asking for digestive issues and a mess to clean up.
