Refreshing Blueberry Dog Treats

Introduction: A Berry Good Treat for Your Furry Friend

Are Blueberries Safe For Dogs?

Yes! Generally speaking, blueberries are a paw-some snack for your dog. They’re low in calories and high in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, making them a healthy treat that can be enjoyed in moderation.¹

Let’s take a look at how blueberries can fit into your dog’s diet and some tasty recipe ideas to freshen up your canine's menu. As with any new food, it’s best to start by giving your dog a small amount of blueberries to help ensure they don’t have an adverse reaction.

The Scoop on Blueberry Benefits for Dogs

Blueberries aren't just delicious; they're a powerhouse of potential benefits for your dog. They’re naturally rich in:

• Antioxidants to help support healthy cells and overall wellness.²
• Fiber to help support your pup's digestive system and promote regular bowel movements.³
• Vitamin C, which can help support a healthy immune system.^4,5
• Polyphenols, a type of potent antioxidant, that may help support canine brain health.⁶
• Powerhouse minerals, like calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and phosphorus.⁷

Just imagine, with every juicy bite, your dog isn't just enjoying a treat — they're getting so many great nutrients, too.

Picking the Best Blueberries for Your Canine Companion

When choosing blueberries for your furry friend, opt for organic when possible, and go for the freshest, most plump-looking berries. Fresh berries should be firm, dark blue, and free from mold or shrivel. And be sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any residual pesticides or dirt.

Ideas for Refreshing Blueberry Dog Treats

The average-sized dog can be given whole blueberries (fresh or frozen), as long as they're washed and stem-free. For smaller (or older) dogs, chopping them in half is best to avoid any choking hazards.

Here are some innovative ideas for creating refreshing blueberry dog treats. As a general guideline, the average dog only needs a few blueberries per serving.

Blueberry and Yogurt Frozen Popsicles

For a cool and refreshing treat, mix plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt (ensure it’s xylitol-free) with fresh or frozen blueberries. Pour the mixture into silicone molds, then freeze for a few hours. These popsicles are a great way to help keep your dog cool during warm weather.

Blueberry and Banana Dog Muffins

For a soft and moist treat, make blueberry and banana dog muffins. Mash one ripe banana with one cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, 4 cups of coconut flour, and a cup of unsweetened applesauce. Add two eggs to bind the mixture (and a little water if too dry), then pour the mix into a mini-muffin tin.

Bake your blueberry and banana dog muffins for 15-20 min at 350ºF until they’re golden brown. These muffins are easy to portion and can be frozen for later use.

Frozen Blueberry Yogurt Bites

For a quick and tasty treat, mix one cup of blueberries and around ¼ cup of unsweetened Greek yogurt (xylitol-free) until well combined. Then, place the berries on a baking sheet, and spread them out. Put the berries in the freezer for a minimum of 3 hours, then serve frozen.

Mashed Blueberry and Peanut Butter

Mash a few blueberries up, and then mix them with a little dog-safe (xylitol-free) peanut butter to top your dog’s usual meal. You can also freeze this mix into a chew toy.

Blueberry Banana Ice

Mix blueberries with some pureed banana and a little water, then pour into an ice cube tray and freeze for a simple, refreshing snack – especially during the warmer months.

Note: When making homemade dog treats, always ensure that the ingredients are safe for dogs and avoid adding any sugar, salt, or artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, which can be harmful to pets.⁸

Beyond Blueberries: Other Nutritious Snack Ideas for Dogs

Dog-Approved Veggie and Fruit Options

Dogs can enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables as part of a balanced diet. Carrots, crisp apples (sans core and seeds), and refreshing cucumbers are great options, and dogs will love the crunch.

You can also try sweet potatoes and pumpkin which are gentle on your dog’s tummy and low in calories.

Just remember to serve these treats in moderation, and always check with your vet if you're uncertain about whether a fruit or vegetable is safe for dogs.

Blueberries as Part of a Nutritious Whole Food Diet

You can also easily add antioxidant-rich blueberries into your pup’s meals with Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness.

Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness is a freeze-dried raw dog food made from premium meats, seeds, vegetables, and fruits – including the “perfect” ratio of blueberries.

With no artificial preservatives, additives, fillers, or synthetic ingredients, Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness is the perfect way to give your dog a nutritious meal they’ll love. And, each ingredient is scientifically chosen to help support your dog’s youthful energy, easy digestion, healthy teeth and skin, mobility, and vitality. So, you can feel confident that you’re taking good care of your pup’s health with every serving.

FAQs: Barking Good Questions Answered

Can All Dogs Eat Blueberries Safely?

Most dogs can safely enjoy blueberries, but it's always wise to start with a small amount in case your dog has an allergy. Monitor for any signs of an adverse reaction, especially if it's their first time trying the fruit. If you notice any digestive upset or allergic reactions, discontinue feeding them blueberries and consult your vet.

How Many Blueberries Can Dogs Eat?

Dogs can have blueberries, but moderation is key. Generally, around 3 - 5 "reward" blueberries a day for a medium-sized dog is appropriate. For very small dogs, chopping them in half is best to avoid any choking hazards. Each pup is different, so it's important to consider their size and dietary needs when offering this nutrient-rich treat.

Can My Dog Share My Blueberry Muffin?

No. It's best to avoid sharing any human baked goods with your dog. While blueberries are safe in moderation, muffins, cakes, and cookies often contain sugar, fats, and sometimes the sweetener xylitol or nutmeg spice – both of which are toxic to dogs. Instead, opt for homemade blueberry dog treats that don't contain these harmful ingredients.

Sources

1. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171711/nutrients
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16520073
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3775244
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32482285/
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26343111/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5672304/
7. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171711/nutrients
8. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/xylitol-toxicosis-in-dogs