Can Dogs Eat Cranberries? (2024)

Fresh and dried cranberries are popular human snacks. Many owners may want to share these with their dogs, especially around Thanksgiving. But can dogs eat cranberries safely?

The answer is both yes and no. Fresh or cooked cranberries, when plain, are not inherently toxic for dogs. When fed in moderation, they are generally safe and may even have some health benefits. Like many human foods, however, cranberries do pose some health risks for dogs.

Are Cranberries Safe for Dogs to Eat?

Both fresh and dried cranberries are safe to feed to dogs in small quantities. Whether your dog will like this tart treat is another question. Either way, moderation is important when feeding cranberries to dogs, as with any treat, as too many can lead to an upset stomach.

Can Dogs Eat Cranberries? (1)

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Dried cranberries sometimes come mixed with other dried fruits, like raisins. Grapes (and raisins) are very toxic to dogs; even a few can cause health problems. Prepared cranberry dishes are also risky, as are any grape/cranberry juice blends and cranberry dishes with sugar or alcohol.

Can Dogs Eat Cranberry Sauce?

Cranberry sauce may safe for dogs in small amounts, but there are some additional risks. Cranberry sauce is high in sugar, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, and some recipes include grapes, raisins, or currants, which are toxic to dogs. Recipes that use brandy are also problematic, as alcohol is toxic to dogs, as well. Feeding plain cranberry sauce in minute quantities is probably safe for your dog, but it is a good idea to monitor your dog after feeding any new food item for signs of intestinal upset or allergic reaction.

Can Cranberries Help Dogs With UTIs?

Many Americans believe that cranberries can help fight and prevent canine urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, there have not been enough studies done with dogs to confirm this, so doctors strongly encourage clients to use cranberry as a supplement and not as a replacement for proven medical treatments.

Can Dogs Eat Cranberries? (2)

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Veterinarian Dr. Marie Haynes warns that feeding large amounts of cranberriesto dogs can lead to the development of calcium oxalate stones in their bladders. As with any treat or supplement, feed cranberries in moderation and under the guidance of a veterinarian to avoid this and any other risks; also ask your vet about the best cranberry supplements on the market.

Cranberries are generally safe when fed in moderation, but there are other fruits and veggies out there that have more benefits for dogs and fewer risks. Check out this list of fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs or talk to your vet about the best options for your dog’s health.

Can Dogs Eat Cranberries? (2024)

FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Cranberries? ›

Cranberries are not toxic or poisonous to dogs. You can feed cranberries to your pup fresh or dried, but they do need to be given in small portions, in moderation, stem-free, and completely plain.

How much cranberries can I give my dog? ›

“If you decide to give your dogs a cranberry snack, provide them as a treat only. Give them dried, raw or cooked, but only give a couple of bites once or twice a week,” Dr. Bonk says. Cranberries can also be added to a dog's food, but again, only in small amounts.

Why can't dogs have cranberries? ›

Both fresh and dried cranberries are safe to feed to dogs in small quantities. Whether your dog will like this tart treat is another question. Either way, moderation is important when feeding cranberries to dogs, as with any treat, as too many can lead to an upset stomach.

Can I give my dog dried cranberries for UTI? ›

Cranberries can also help combat a canine urinary tract infection, as they can in humans. What's more, cranberries are good for your dog's teeth, cardiovascular system, and eyesight. You need to enable JavaScript to run this app.

Are blueberries or cranberries better for dogs? ›

Blueberries are a healthy and low-calorie treat that is safe for dogs. Cranberries are non-toxic for dogs; however, most dogs don't like them. Certain berries can make dogs sick, including gooseberries, marionberries, salmonberries, cherries, and serviceberries.

How do I prepare cranberries for my dog? ›

One of the easiest ways to feed dogs cranberries is by using dried cranberries. Make sure there are no added sugars or other ingredients—or make them at home with your own dehydrator. Feed them to your pup like a regular treat or mix some into their bowl like a food topper.

What are the side effects of cranberry pills for dogs? ›

While generally safe, cranberry pills and chews can have side effects like stomach upset, diarrhea, and blood thinning. Always feed the supplement on a full stomach. Be mindful of any adverse reactions and stop administration if you notice them.

Can dogs have pineapple? ›

The short answer is yes, dogs can eat pineapple. Pineapple is just one of the many "human foods" that dogs can eat. Raw pineapple is packed with nutrients that benefit both you and your canine companion. Frozen pieces of pineapple are also a delicious way to beat the heat.

Can dogs eat bananas? ›

Yes, dogs can eat bananas. It's tempting to share tasty fruit with your dog, especially when they're staring at you longingly. The good news is dogs can eat bananas in reasonable quantities as an occasional treat.

Are cranberries good for dogs kidneys? ›

“Additionally, one should avoid any food that contains cranberries that have been mixed with grapes, grape juice or raisins, which contain a substance that can cause injury to your dog's kidneys,” says Dr. Ahn, who is also a strategic advisor for MYOS, a senior pet healthcare company in Cedar Knolls, New Jersey.

Can dogs have blueberries? ›

Yes, blueberries are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They also contain antioxidants, fiber and vitamins C and K. These nutrients support the immune system and contribute to overall health. Adding blueberries to your dog's diet is a great way to help keep him happy and healthy.

Can dogs eat cheese? ›

Cheese can be given as an occasional treat in moderation, alongside a healthy diet. If your dog manages to eat a whole block or other large amount of cheese, they may vomit. Keep an eye on them, and call your vet for advice if they become unwell.

Can dogs have celery? ›

You can feed raw celery to your pup as a safe and healthy snack. Just be sure to cut the stalks into small, edible pieces and remove the strings. Otherwise, a whole celery stick could become a choking hazard or even lead to an intestinal blockage.

Can dogs have watermelon? ›

Both red and yellow watermelon are safe and healthy fruits for most puppies and adult dogs to eat. However, dogs that have diabetes or sugar sensitivities as well as dogs that are obese should not be given the fruit. Watermelon is low in calories and contains no fat or cholesterol.

Can dogs eat banana peels? ›

Can dogs eat banana skins? No part of the banana is toxic to dogs but dogs can find the peel hard to digest because they contain so much fibre and could cause an internal blockage. Banana peels might also be a choking hazard to dogs, so it's best to avoid feeding this to them.

How many cranberries can a dog eat in a day? ›

Giving your dog too many cranberries can cause an upset stomach from the acid in the fruit, so make sure you're limiting their intake every day — ideally, you won't be feeding them cranberries on a daily basis anyway. Medium-sized dogs can enjoy a few cranberries per day, and larger pups can have a bit more.

Can cranberries cause diarrhea in dogs? ›

Moderation Is Key

Only a few cranberries means your furbaby won't enjoy all the benefits of cranberries, while too much can be risky, and even toxic to dogs, as it may lead to: Upset stomach. Vomiting. Diarrhoea.

Are craisins the same as dried cranberries? ›

Dried cranberries may be marketed as craisins due to the similarity in appearance with raisins, although the word "Craisin" is a registered trademark of Ocean Spray. Craisins were introduced as part of a packaged cereal produced by Ralston Purina in 1989.

Is cranberry juice good for dogs with kidney disease? ›

While cranberry juice is not used to treat or prevent kidney disease, some evidence suggests that cranberry juice and extract may help prevent urinary tract infections, and therefore increase the comfort of your pet during this time.

Can I give my dog azo cranberry pills? ›

So the Azo Cranberry supplement is NOT toxic to dogs. That is in contrast to the regular azo supplement, which contains phenazopyridine, which is very toxic to dogs. But you shouldn't have to worry!

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