Yes, most dogs with kidney disease can eat strawberries in small amounts. Fresh strawberries are low in phosphorus, sodium and protein, the nutrients a kidney diet usually limits, which makes a few slices a reasonable treat. Check with your vet first, though, especially if your dog is on a prescription kidney diet or their bloodwork shows high potassium, and keep all treats to a small part of the daily food.
That being said, there are some guidelines to follow before you start giving your dog strawberries, especially if they have kidney disease. Follow along for more information.
Benefits of Strawberries for Dogs
The benefits of strawberries for dogs are many. First and foremost, they’re a great source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect your dog’s cells from damage. Kidney disease is associated with oxidative stress, so antioxidant-rich foods may be a helpful addition, although treats like strawberries are no substitute for the diet and treatment your vet recommends.
Strawberries are also a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate your dog’s digestion. This is important because kidney disease can often lead to gastrointestinal issues. The fiber in strawberries can also help to support regular, well-formed stools.
Finally, strawberries are a low-calorie treat, which is important for dogs who are struggling with weight gain. Obesity can make kidney disease worse, so it’s crucial to keep your dog at a healthy weight.
Downside of Strawberries for Dogs
The biggest downside of feeding strawberries to your dog is the potential for digestive upset. Some dogs may experience diarrhea or vomiting after eating strawberries. If this happens, it’s important to stop giving your dog strawberries and consult with your veterinarian.
Other dogs may be allergic to strawberries. While this is relatively rare, it’s important to be aware of the signs of an allergic reaction, which can include itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. If you think your dog is having an allergic reaction, call your veterinarian immediately.
Best Way to Feed Strawberries to Dogs
If you decide that you want to give your dog strawberries, it’s important to do so in moderation. Start by giving your dog a few small pieces of strawberry and see how they react. If they seem to enjoy it and don’t have any adverse reaction, you can gradually increase the amount you give them.
It’s also important to only give your dog fresh (or plain frozen) strawberries. Wash them, remove the green tops, and cut them into small pieces, especially for small dogs. Avoid processed strawberries such as jam, syrup, canned fruit or strawberry yogurt, as these can contain added sugar, salt, or sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Wild look-alikes are a different story; we cover whether mock strawberries are bad for dogs separately.
How Many Strawberries Can a Dog Eat?
The number of strawberries a dog can eat will depend on their size, weight, and health condition. For example, a small dog may only need a slice or two of strawberry, while a large dog can have two or three whole strawberries. A good rule is that all treats together should make up no more than about 10% of your dog's daily calories.
Strawberries contain a moderate amount of potassium. That's not a problem for most dogs with kidney disease, and some actually have low potassium levels, but dogs with advanced kidney disease can have high potassium and may need to limit fruit. Because every case is different, consult with your veterinarian to determine how many strawberries, if any, are safe for your dog to eat.
What About Other Fruits?
In general, most fruits are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. However, there are a few that should be avoided, including grapes, raisins, and currants. These fruits can cause kidney damage in dogs, so it’s best to steer clear.
Additionally, citrus fruits like lemons and limes are very acidic and can upset your dog’s stomach. A segment of orange is fine for most healthy dogs, but it's best not to make citrus a regular treat.
If you’re unsure whether a particular fruit is safe for your dog, check with your veterinarian. Our guide to fruits dogs can eat and the ones to avoid is a good starting point.
What Causes Kidney Disease in Dogs?
Chronic kidney disease is most common in older dogs, as the kidneys gradually wear out with age. Other causes include infections, inherited kidney problems, cancer, and toxins such as grapes, raisins, antifreeze and certain medications. Some breeds are also more prone to kidney disease than others.
Call your vet if your dog is drinking and urinating much more than usual, has a poor appetite, vomiting, weight loss or bad breath, as these can be early signs of kidney disease. And if your dog has eaten grapes, raisins or antifreeze, contact your vet or an emergency clinic right away.
When your dog has kidney disease, diet is one of the most important parts of treatment. Vets usually recommend a kidney diet that is lower in phosphorus and contains moderate amounts of high-quality protein, and too many extra treats can undo its benefits. Always ask your vet before adding new foods.
Other Good Foods for Dogs with Kidney Disease
While strawberries can be a good snack for dogs with kidney disease, they’re not the only option. Other treats that are often suitable, in small amounts and with your vet's approval, include:
- Canned pumpkin: Pumpkin is a good source of fiber and antioxidants. It can also help to settle your dog’s stomach.
- Yogurt: Plain yogurt contains probiotics, but dairy is fairly high in phosphorus and protein, so only offer a small spoonful if your vet agrees. Choose one without added sugars or sweeteners.
- Baby carrots: Baby carrots are low in calories and a good source of fiber. They can also help to clean your dog’s teeth.
- Green beans: Green beans are low in calories and a good source of vitamins A and C.
Can Dogs With Kidney Disease Eat Banana?
Bananas are high in potassium. Dogs with kidney disease can have potassium levels that are too high or too low, so whether a little banana is fine depends on your dog's bloodwork. Ask your vet before feeding bananas to a dog with kidney disease.
Can Dogs With Kidney Disease Eat Apples?
Yes, in moderation. Apples are low in phosphorus, sodium and protein, so a few slices are often a suitable treat for dogs with kidney disease. Remove the core and seeds first, and check with your vet if your dog is on a strict prescription diet.
Key Takeaways
Strawberries are a healthy, low-phosphorus treat that most dogs with kidney disease can enjoy in small amounts. Get your vet's okay first, start slowly, watch for any adverse reactions, and keep treats to a small part of your dog's daily diet.
