Dogs · Food safety
Can Dogs Eat Blueberries? Benefits, Risks and How Many to Give
Yes, most dogs can safely eat blueberries in moderation. Plain fresh or frozen blueberries are low in calories and contain fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants. Wash them and give only a few: about 1–2 for very small dogs up to 6–10 for giant breeds, with all treats under 10% of daily calories. Cut or mash them for small dogs, who can choke on whole berries, and skip blueberry muffins, pie filling and sweetened yogurt.
| Safe for dogs? | Yes, plain fresh or frozen, in moderation |
|---|---|
| Good for | Low-calorie treat with fibre, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants |
| How much | 1–2 berries for tiny dogs up to 6–10 for giant breeds (see table) |
| Avoid | Muffins, pie filling, canned or syrup-packed berries, sweetened blueberry yogurt (may contain xylitol) |
| Ask your vet first if | Your dog has diabetes, food sensitivities or is on a prescription diet |
Are blueberries good for dogs?
Blueberries are one of the easiest fruits to share. They're low in calories and contain antioxidants, fibre, vitamins C, A and K, and minerals such as potassium and magnesium.
Some research links the antioxidants in blueberries to healthy ageing in dogs, which is one reason they're popular with owners of senior dogs. They're still a treat: a complete, balanced dog food should make up at least 90% of your dog's daily calories.
How many blueberries can a dog eat?
Follow the 10% rule: treats, blueberries included, should be no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories. The amounts below are a daily guide for a healthy adult dog; follow your vet's advice if it differs.
| Dog size | Weight | Blueberries |
|---|---|---|
| Extra-small | 2–10 lb (1–4.5 kg) | 1–2 berries |
| Small | 11–20 lb (5–9 kg) | 2–3 berries |
| Medium | 21–50 lb (10–23 kg) | 3–5 berries |
| Large | 51–90 lb (23–41 kg) | 5–6 berries |
| Extra-large | 91 lb+ (41 kg+) | 6–10 berries |
How to give your dog blueberries
- Wash them to remove dirt and pesticide residue, and pull off any stems.
- Cut or mash them for small dogs and fast eaters; whole round berries can be a choking risk.
- Try them frozen as a cool summer treat.
- Use them for training or enrichment: drop a few in a puzzle toy, or freeze a purée with plain yogurt in a KONG.
- Dried blueberries are fine only with no added sugar, and in smaller portions than fresh.
When blueberries are a bad idea
- Blueberry muffins, pies and pastries. Added sugar and fat, and sometimes ingredients that are toxic to dogs.
- Canned, syrup-packed or pie-filling blueberries. Far too much sugar.
- Blueberry yogurt. Most are sweetened, and some contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Too many at once. Can cause an upset stomach, gas or diarrhoea.
- Dogs with diabetes or on prescription diets. Ask your vet before giving any fruit.
Can puppies eat blueberries?
Yes, in moderation. Introduce them slowly, one or two at a time, and cut or mash them so they're the right size for your puppy's mouth.
Frequently asked questions
Are blueberries safe for dogs?
Yes. Plain fresh or frozen blueberries are safe for most dogs in small amounts. Cut them for small dogs to reduce the choking risk.
How many blueberries can a dog have a day?
About 1–2 for very small dogs, 3–5 for medium dogs and up to 6–10 for giant breeds, keeping all treats under 10% of daily calories.
Can dogs eat frozen blueberries?
Yes. Frozen blueberries make a refreshing treat; just keep the amount small and cut them for small dogs.
Can dogs eat blueberry muffins?
No. Muffins contain added sugar and fat and can contain ingredients that are unsafe for dogs.
Can dogs eat blueberry yogurt?
Most blueberry yogurts aren't recommended because of added sugar, and some contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Plain, unsweetened, xylitol-free yogurt with fresh blueberries is a safer option.
Can dogs eat wild blueberries?
Yes, in small amounts, as long as you're certain they are blueberries. Many wild berries look similar and some are toxic to dogs.
Sources
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different; ask your vet before changing your dog's diet, especially if your dog has diabetes, is overweight, or has a sensitive stomach.