At A Glance
Dogs love their treats, and if you can feed them with something yummy and healthy, then you’re on the right track as a paw parent! If you're asking ‘Can dogs eat cranberries? The answer is yes! Munching on this juicy, crimson-colored fruit brings a range of nutrients and health benefits to humans and dogs alike. A small handful of berries can go a long way in promoting their health and longevity.
Last Updated on: September 20, 2023
More than just a holiday staple, cranberries are packed with bioactives or health-boosting natural compounds that benefit dogs whether eaten fresh or dried. Cranberry juice may also be given to your canines to infuse fresh, wholesome goodness to their diet provided it’s sugar free and given in moderate quantity.
Let’s look further into the benefits and potential pitfalls of cranberries for dogs and get an in-depth answer to the question, ‘Can dogs eat cranberries safely?’
Aside from exploring the numerous health benefits of cranberries and the caveats of serving your dog this festive fruit, 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.
Can dogs eat cranberries safely? Clinical pet nutritionists like Johnna Devereaux weigh in on the health impact of cranberries when added to a dog’s diet. She shares, “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.”
Quercetin is a flavonoid that’s also found in red wine, tea, apples, grapes and other antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powerhouse foods. Antioxidants help protect the body from cell damage caused by oxidative stress that comes from toxins and stress.
Cranberries are known for combating UTI in humans but can dogs eat cranberries for UTI, too? Definitely! Dogs love to frolic and explore the outdoors, making them prone to bacterial infections.
Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins (PACs) that help prevent bacteria such as E. coli to attach to the urinary tract lining and instead get flushed out through the urine.
As mentioned, cranberries are high in antioxidants which can help boost the immune system and protect against various diseases and illnesses. These immunity enhancing support immune cells, reduce chronic inflammation, and aid in healing and recovery.
A few cranberries in their bowl can help give your dog an extra shield against maladies.
Cranberries contain natural compounds that inhibit the formation of plaque and tartar. They also have antibacterial properties that reduce the presence of bad bacteria in their mouth.
The tartness of cranberries can also help improve a dog’s oral hygiene by helping freshen the dog’s breath.
Cranberries are a rich source of dietary fiber that help boost bowel movement and prevent constipation and diarrhea. It also helps build a strong microbiome through its prebiotic properties, promoting the growth and balance of good bacteria in the gut.
It also reduces inflammation in the digestive tract and supports overall digestive health.
Cranberries help protect heart and blood vessel cells from oxidative stress, and reduce chronic inflammation that could pose risks to the heart and circulation. This nutrient powerhouse also helps maintain blood pressure and cholesterol at optimum levels.
It’s important to note that cranberries are healthy for dogs but should only be given in moderation as large amounts may cause upset stomachs and sensitivities. Always consult a veterinarian before adding cranberries to your dog’s diet, especially if they have underlying health issues.
You can feed your dog cranberries without worries as long as you do it right.
Cranberries are served either fresh or processed and you may have some questions in mind as you add this fruit to your dog food list and see various cranberry products at the supermarket. Let’s address them, one by one.
Cranberries are non toxic and are generally safe for dogs to eat as long as it’s done with restraint lest they experience digestive upset. Cranberries in raw or fresh form is actually one of the better ways to serve cranberries to your dogs because the nutrients are kept intact and it’s not adulterated with additives.
However, they could be choking hazards in their raw form so we suggest slicing or cooking them down a bit to make them easier and safer to chew. Wash them well, too!
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.”
Yes, dogs can eat dried cranberries in moderation. Dried cranberries are safe for your dogs but do check the label first to make sure no sugar substitute or other toxic ingredients are added to the mix. Sugar increases blood sugar and artificial sweeteners like xylitol which is toxic for dogs may spike insulin, cause dangerous drop in blood sugar, and may lead to liver damage.
Also, some dried cranberries in trail mixes come with other dried fruits like raisins which, like grapes, are dangerous for dogs as they can cause acute kidney failure, vomiting, and diarrhea. Opt for unsweetened dried cranberries or fresh or frozen cranberries instead.
They sure can! However, cooking the cranberries yourself is safer because store-bought cooked cranberries may contain ingredients like added sugar, fillers, artificial flavorings, colors, or other ingredients that may be harmful for your dog.
If there’s a lack of transparency with their labeling then it’s best to prepare and cook cranberries to feed your dog yourself.
The general rule is, the less ingredients added to cranberries, the better. Canned cranberries usually come with added sugar like high fructose corn syrup that can increase your dog’s blood sugar. For this reason, it’s best to opt for fresh or cooked alternatives.
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.
Dogs can eat dehydrated cranberries provided they are devoid of any added sugar or sugar substitutes and other additives. Dehydrated cranberries, like dried cranberries, have reduced moisture content but have minimal to zero additives which enables this processing method to preserve the tartness and nutrients of the fruit.
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.
It is best to consult your dog’s vet first before giving your dog any form of supplement. Dogs can take cranberry supplements to fight or prevent UTI under the guidance of a healthcare provider who can best determine the proper dosage based on the dog’s size and health needs.
“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.
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 may 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 may 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 and cooked cranberries may contain added sugar, which can be harmful to dogs. It’s important to read labels carefully and choose cranberry products free of added sugar.
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 give your dog as healthy treats:
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.
They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help optimize your dog’s health. They are also non toxic and are therefore safe to feed to dogs in moderate amounts.
For fresh or frozen cranberries, 1-2 pieces per day for small dogs and a bit more for large dogs. For dried cranberries, 1 to 2 tablespoons per day for small dogs and 3 or 4 tablespoons for large dogs but do check the sugar content and limit the serving if there’s added sugar. Cranberries should not exceed 10% of your pet’s diet.
Not necessarily. You may serve cranberries to your dogs in cooked, fresh, frozen (thawed), dried or dehydrated forms without added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or other additives.
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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Meet Paul, a devoted dog dad to the delightful French Bulldog, Cofi. With a flair for humor and a deep understanding of Frenchie quirks, Paul brings a lighthearted touch to his writings. His relatable stories and practical insights are a blend of laughter and valuable advice and resonate with fellow dog owners.
Through his words, Paul aims to celebrate the joys and challenges of being a dedicated pet parent, reminding you that life is simply better with a four-legged, snorting sidekick by your side.
