Dogs love their treats, and what could be better than a tasty, healthy snack that also benefits their overall health? Cranberries are a superfood, and they’re not just for humans. So can dogs eat cranberries? The answer is yes!
A small handful of berries can be a great addition to a dog's diet.
Cranberries are not just a holiday staple but also a superfood packed with nutrients that are beneficial for both humans and our furry friends.
As pet owners, we always want to give the best to our four-legged companions, and what could be better than incorporating a healthy, tasty snack into their diet?
Let’s delve into the benefits and potential pitfalls of cranberries for dogs and answer the question, ‘Can dogs eat cranberries?’.
Not only will we explore the numerous health benefits that this superfood provides, but we will also provide easy-to-follow recipes for delicious cranberry treats that your dog will love.
Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or new to the game, this article is a must-read for everyone looking to enhance their dog’s diet with a nutritious and tasty snack.
Johnna Devereaux, a clinical pet nutritionist, says, “Cranberries are not only safe for dogs, but they’re also a great source of antioxidants and are high in quercetin, a plant pigment that can help boost the immune system, among other benefits.”
Now that you know the answer to the question, ‘Can dogs eat Cranberries?’ let’s look at why they get my vote:
Cranberries contain compounds that help prevent bacterial infections in the urinary tract. This can significantly benefit dogs prone to bladder and urinary tract infections.
Take care of your dog’s bladder and urinary tract with innovative supplements made with cranberry concentrate. Using patented Bioshield technology, these delicious bites also take care of your pet’s gut health.
Take care of your dog’s bladder and urinary tract with innovative supplements made with cranberry concentrate. Using patented Bioshield technology, these delicious bites also take care of your pet’s gut health.
As seen on Google
We have been liking the Zesty Paw Brand so we tried these cranberry bites. Our boy has HUU which causes his urine to be really strong and smelly and it can potentially lead to kidney or bladder issues and we don’t want that…These have helped my boys urine not be so heavy on the scent which is amazing…Bulldogs can’t have much of real cranberries so these are a great alternative…
As seen on Google
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As seen on Google
I have a 6 year old lab that was spayed…recently I have noticed…urine on her bed…some female dogs who are spayed…have the incontinence problem. I wanted to have her try these cranberry bites to see if it would help…It has almost been a week and…I don’t find urine on her bed anymore! THIS REALLY WORKS! And my dog loves the taste. I would recommend it…
Cranberries are high in antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system and protect against various diseases and illnesses.
The tartness of cranberries can help improve a dog’s oral health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth.
Cranberries contain soluble fiber, which can help regulate digestion and prevent digestive issues such as diarrhea and constipation.
Certain compounds in cranberries help improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease in dogs.
It’s important to note that cranberries should only be given to dogs in moderation, as large amounts can lead to upset stomachs. Always consult a veterinarian before adding cranberries to your dog’s diet, especially if they have underlying health issues.
Overall, incorporating cranberries into your dog’s diet can be a great way to provide numerous health benefits and keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
So, are cranberries safe for dogs?
Yes! But how many cranberries should you be feeding Fido? Let’s find out.
Too much of anything can be harmful, and cranberries are no exception. Here’s a general guideline for how many cranberries your dog can have:
According to Dr. Albert Ahn, DVM, president of AB Science USA, “Frozen cranberries are hard enough that they can damage a dog’s teeth when they’re chewing them-so be sure to defrost them first. And if you’re feeding your pup fresh cranberries, wash them like you would with any fresh fruit.”
Fresh or frozen cranberries can be given to dogs as a treat, but it’s important to only give them a small amount at a time. A good rule of thumb is to limit fresh or frozen cranberries to no more than 1-2 tablespoons per day.
Dried cranberries are concentrated and contain more sugar than fresh or frozen cranberries. As a result, they should only be given to dogs in minimal amounts – no more than a few pieces at a time.
If you’re considering giving your dog a cranberry supplement, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian first. They can recommend the appropriate dose dog based on your dog’s size, breed, and overall health.
Cranberries should not exceed 10% of your pet’s diet. Also, remember that dogs can react differently to different foods. If you notice any signs of digestive upset after giving your dog cranberries, it’s best to discontinue.
By following these guidelines and consulting with a veterinarian, you can ensure your dog gets the health benefits of cranberries while keeping any negative side effects at bay.
My dog loves dried cranberries but refuses to eat dog treats. pic.twitter.com/4FBPdGS6a1
— Lindsey (@Linnddsseeyyy) April 13, 2016
“Dogs can eat cranberries without concerns for toxicity. As with all treats, moderation is key. Too many cranberries can upset their stomach (and prevent them from wanting to eat their regular food).” Dr. Zachariah Marteney, Medical Director at Meadowlands Veterinary Hospital.
So, are they good, or are cranberries bad for dogs?
It’s important to keep in mind that every dog is different and may react differently to cranberries. It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before adding cranberries to your dog’s diet, especially if they have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications.
By doing so, you ensure your dog is getting the health benefits of cranberries without any potential risks.
And while these tart beauties can offer numerous health benefits to your pet, there are also some potential risks to keep in mind. Here are a few of the most notable risks associated with feeding your dog cranberries:
If consumed in large amounts, cranberries can cause digestive upset, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, since they are high in acid and fiber.
Cranberries can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diuretics, and make them less effective.
It’s important to consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog cranberries, especially if they are on some medications.
Some dogs can have an allergic reaction to cranberries, which can result in symptoms such as vomiting, itching, and hives.
If you suspect your dog has an allergy to cranberries, discontinue the feed and consult with a veterinarian.
Dried cranberries can contain added sugar, which can be harmful to dogs. It’s important to read labels carefully and choose cranberry products free of added sugar.
Cranberries are not toxic to dogs, but consuming too much can cause digestive upset and lead to illness.
Some dogs may experience symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after eating cranberries. And as I mentioned earlier, you may also notice symptoms like vomiting, itching, and hives stemming from a possible allergic reaction to the berries.
For your peace of mind, feed your pet a moderate amount of cranberries and monitor it closely for any signs of digestive upset or allergic reactions.
Choosing high-quality cranberry products free of added sugars, preservatives, and other harmful ingredients is also important.
Cranberries have many potential benefits when it comes to preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in dogs.
They contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls and causing nasty infections. In addition, it’s important to ensure your dog is staying hydrated and has access to plenty of fresh water, as this can help flush bacteria out of the bladder.
But there’s a catch.
While cranberries can be beneficial for dogs with UTIs, that cannot only be the sole treatment for the infection.
If your dog is showing signs of a UTI, such as frequent urination, pain or discomfort while urinating, or blood in the urine, consult a veterinarian who can diagnose the cause of the infection and recommend an appropriate course of treatment.
This is so silly but I made a video of my dog eating a cranberry and…#SoundOn pic.twitter.com/A24QPTQKce
— Allison Chartrand (@IceShelvesAndAC) November 22, 2020
Feeding your dog cranberries can be a great way to boost their health and support their overall wellness. Here are five simple and delicious recipes featuring cranberries that you can easily make for your furry friend:
These simple-to-make recipes are packed with healthy ingredients and antioxidants that can support your dog’s overall health. Always ensure the ingredients are fresh and free of added sugars or preservatives. As with any new food, introduce cranberries to your dog’s diet slowly to avoid any digestive upset.
Yes, dogs can eat dried cranberries in moderation.
However, keep in mind that dried cranberries are often sweetened with sugar or other sweeteners, which can be harmful to dogs when given in large amounts.
Opt for unsweetened dried cranberries or fresh or frozen cranberries instead.
Cranberry juice can be a healthy addition to a dog’s diet, but in small amounts. However, most store-bought cranberry juices contain added sugars, which can be harmful to your dog.
It’s best to opt for unsweetened cranberry juice or to dilute it with water before giving it to your dog.
If you’re wondering, ‘Can dogs eat raw cranberries?’ by all means. But come Turkey Day, if you consider passing your pooch the cranberry sauce, don’t.
Cranberry sauce is typically high in sugar and other sweeteners, which can be harmful to dogs. It’s best to avoid giving your dog cranberry sauce and instead opt for fresh or frozen cranberries or unsweetened cranberry juice. If you’re concerned about your dog’s health, consult a veterinarian before making any changes to its diet.
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A digital marketing expert by profession, Andrews is a gifted writer and animal lover at heart. A self-confessed "pawrent", Andrews is well-versed in all things dogs. He uses his years of experience of raising puppies into show-quality dogs to help guide first-time pet parents. He believes in spreading the joy that comes with being a dog dad and advocates more families to adopt pets.
