Can dogs eat cranberries? Yes, cranberries are a tasty and nutritious fruit for dogs. Dubbed as a superfood, they contain antioxidants, polyphenols, and phytochemicals. Cranberries also have plenty of health-enriching nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and manganese.
There are many cranberry food products out there. Does that mean they’re safe for Fido to consume as well? Read on to find out.
Are cranberries good for dogs?
Can dogs have cranberries? These tart and delicious berries are considered a superfood. Cranberries are rich in polyphenols and phytochemicals, which play a big role in warding off diseases and making dogs healthy and fit. They are also an excellent source of antioxidants.
Loads of vitamins and minerals can be acquired from eating cranberries as well. These include manganese, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.
Dogs will enjoy the following health benefits from cranberries:
- Cranberries strengthen the immune system and eliminate free radicals.
- Cranberries promote sharp memory and good brain function.
- Cranberries improve cardiovascular health and lower the risk of heart diseases.
- Cranberries encourage a healthier digestive system and prevent gastrointestinal diseases.
- Cranberries promote bladder health.
- Cranberries reduce tartar and plaque build-up.
- Cranberries lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
- Cranberries help decrease inflammation caused by chronic health problems.
Always consult your vet first to make sure that cranberry fits your dog’s nutritional needs.
Are cranberries safe for dogs with their high acidity?
Cranberries are not toxic to dogs, but their high acid levels are one of their biggest drawbacks. If you allow your dog to chow on too many cranberries, he will risk developing kidney stones.
The acidity of the cranberries can alter your pooch’s urine. As a result, it forms calcium oxalate, which turns into stones over time. These can obstruct his urethra and cause extreme discomfort and pain during urination.
As such, always keep in mind to only serve cranberries as occasional treats.
How many cranberries should a dog eat?
Just like any human food, cranberries are okay for dogs to consume in moderation.
For toy and miniature dog breeds, a piece of this fruit is more than enough for them. Small and medium dog breeds can have two to three cranberries. Larger breeds should eat no more than five to eight cranberries.
When adding cranberry to your dog’s food, do it gradually. Dogs have sensitive digestive systems. They may suffer from an upset stomach if their meals are suddenly altered. Start with feeding only one cranberry to your dog.
Watch closely for signs of digestive problems, which can occur within twenty-four hours after eating the fruit. If he appears fine, you can increase the number of cranberries after a few days. Remember not to go over the recommended feeding amount.
What kinds of cranberry food products are safe for dogs?
The market is teeming with all kinds of cranberry-flavored foods. Although you are buying solely for yourself most of the time, sometimes Fido can’t help but want a share of them.
Can dogs eat dried cranberries?
Dried cranberries or Craisins contain sugar, which is harmful to dogs in large amounts. In addition, sugar is one of the biggest contributors to diabetes and obesity. So, can dogs eat Craisins? Yes, but dog owners should only share them with their furry pals in minimal amounts.
Some dried cranberries contain a sugar substitute called xylitol, while others have raisins mixed in them. Stay away from these products as they can cause poisoning to your dog.
Take the time to read the ingredients list before sharing dried cranberries with him. Make sure that there is no added sugar and that it’s free from raisins and xylitol.
Can dogs have cranberry juice?
Cranberry juice can reduce tartar and plaque buildup. Cranberry juice is safe for dogs so long as it does not contain xylitol and grape juice. Always check the ingredients list before giving it to your dog.
Share cranberry juice in small quantities since it has high sugar content. The recommended serving amount is 0.5 milliliters of cranberry juice per pound of body weight a day.
Can dogs eat cranberry sauce?
Plain cranberry sauce is okay for dogs to consume. However, it should only be given in small quantities as it is high in sugar. Do not forget to double-check the ingredients list and ensure that it does not contain xylitol before serving.
Cranberry sauces that are used in recipes must be kept away from dogs. It might contain grapes, raisins, and brandy, putting their lives in danger. If you have leftover cranberry dishes, dispose of them properly for your dog’s safety.
Can dogs have cranberry pills?
Canine cranberry pills are supplements for dogs with urinary tract infections (UTIs). You can give cranberry supplements to your dog, provided that you have consulted the vet first. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions given.
On the other hand, cranberry pills or medication intended for human consumption must not be given to dogs. That’s because our furry companions metabolize medication very differently than we do. Nearly 50% of pet poisoning stems from ingesting human drugs.
How to prepare cranberries safely for your dog
Here are a few helpful reminders to keep in mind when preparing cranberries for your furry pal:
- Talk to your vet first and get their approval to add cranberries to your dog’s diet.
- Choose organic cranberries since they are less exposed to chemicals.
- Wash the berries properly to get rid of chemical residue and dirt.
- You can serve the cranberries raw, cooked, mashed, or dried to your dog.
- Skip adding sugar or other ingredients as it is best served plain.
- Always keep in mind to set consumption limits to avoid overfeeding.
Home-made Cranberry Dog Treats
Below is a quick and easy cranberry dog treat recipe for you to try at home:
Cranberry Pumpkin Biscuits
- Ingredients
1 cup whole fresh cranberries - 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cup stock, chicken, beef, or vegetable
- 2 cups wheat flour
- 16 oz (1 can) pumpkin puree, unsweetened
Procedure:
- In a large bowl, mix wheat flour, rolled oats, fresh cranberries, pumpkin puree, and stock. Stir until well-combined. If the mixture is too dry, add a bit of stock.
- Using a small ice cream scoop, scoop a dollop of the mixture. Place it in the palm of your hand and roll it into a ball.
- Place the dog treats on a pizza stone or a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the treats for fifty minutes at 350 degrees.
- Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool. Do not serve hot food to your dog, as this can cause severe injury.
- After the treats have cooled, place them in a Ziploc bag and store them in the refrigerator.