Can dogs eat cranberry?

Why

Fresh or frozen cranberries provide antioxidants and fiber without harmful toxins, but their tartness can upset a dog's stomach if too many are eaten. It is crucial to avoid any products with added sugar, xylitol, or other ingredients that are toxic to pets.

If you do feed it

• Serve only plain, fresh, or frozen cranberries with no added sugar or sweeteners.
• Limit the portion to a few berries for small dogs and a small handful for large dogs.
• Mash or chop the berries to prevent choking and make them easier to digest.
• Introduce slowly to monitor for any signs of stomach upset or diarrhea.

Watch out for

• Cranberry sauce, which often contains high sugar and xylitol
• Cranberry supplements or pills not formulated for pets
• Dried cranberries that may have added sugar or preservatives
• Whole berries that could pose a choking hazard for small dogs

Better choices