A natural treat or a risky snack
Blackberries are sweet, juicy and packed with goodness. They’re in season, easy to find, and many of us love snacking on them — especially in summer. But what about your dog?
You’re out on a walk, and your dog spots a blackberry bush. Before you can stop them, they’ve gobbled a few off the lower branches. Can dogs eat blackberries? Should you worry?
Or maybe you’re enjoying a fruit salad at home. Your dog gives you that look, and you’re tempted to share a berry or two. But you pause — can dogs eat blackberries safely?
You’re not alone in wondering. Many dog owners want to feed healthier treats, especially during the warmer months. But not all fruits are dog-safe. Some are dangerous, even in small amounts.
This guide will help you make sense of it all — so you can offer treats that are safe, healthy, and approved by dogs.
Let’s start with the main question.
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Blackberries — In Moderation
Blackberries are safe for dogs to eat in small amounts. They’re full of natural antioxidants, fibre, and vitamins like C and K. They’re also low in sugar compared to many other fruits.
Dogs Trust and The Kennel Club both list blackberries as non-toxic. They’re not essential to your dog’s diet, but they can be a fun, occasional treat.
Just make sure:
- They’re fresh and washed
- You feed them plain (no sugar or yoghurt)
- You offer a small amount — not a whole handful
Why Do Dogs Love Blackberries?
Let’s be honest — not all dogs love fruit. But some do.
Many dogs enjoy blackberries because:
- They’re naturally sweet and soft
- They have a strong, fruity smell
- The texture is fun to chew
You might notice your dog sniffs them out on walks or begs when you’re eating fruit. It’s fine to give in now and then — as long as you know it’s safe and stick to small quantities.
How Many Blackberries Can a Dog Eat?
This depends on your dog’s size, age, and sensitivity to their stomach.
Here’s a rough guide for healthy adult dogs:
- Small dogs (under 10kg): 1–2 blackberries
- Medium dogs (10–25kg): 3–4 blackberries
- Large dogs (25kg+): 4–6 blackberries
Puppies can be more sensitive, so it’s best to skip them entirely or ask your vet first.
Start with one berry. Wait a few hours and watch for signs of an upset stomach, such as vomiting or loose stools. If all’s well, you can occasionally offer a few more.
Are There Any Risks with Blackberries?
While blackberries are safe in small amounts, too many can cause digestive issues.
Watch out for:
- Upset stomach (diarrhoea, gas, vomiting)
- Choking (especially in toy breeds or if frozen)
- Allergic reactions (rare, but possible)
Also, don’t let your dog forage freely from bushes. Wild blackberries can be:
- Unwashed or contaminated (e.g. with pesticides or fox urine)
- Mixed with other dangerous plants
- Growing near roadsides where pollution can linger
Always pick and wash berries yourself.
Are There Any Fruits Dogs Can’t Eat?
Yes. Some fruits are toxic to dogs and should be avoided at all times.
Here are typical examples to keep away from your dog:
- Grapes and raisins – highly toxic and can cause kidney failure
- Cherries – pits contain cyanide; flesh is OK but risky
- Avocados – contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea
- Citrus fruits (lemons, limes, grapefruit) – acidic and can upset digestion
- Unripe tomatoes – contain solanine, which is toxic in large quantities
Safe fruit options include apples (without seeds), bananas, blueberries, watermelon (without seeds), strawberries, and, of course, blackberries.
Still, fruit should never make up more than 10% of your dog’s diet. Purina did a list of the top 17 safe fruits
Fun Ways to Offer Blackberries to Your Dog
If your dog enjoys blackberries, here are a few safe and fun ways to serve them:
Simple ideas:
- Frozen treats: freeze a few berries and offer on hot days
- Fruit topper: mash a couple into plain dog-safe yoghurt and spoon over kibble
- Training reward: use one berry as a high-value treat for recall practice
- Enrichment toy: squash a few berries into a Kong with a spoon of dog-friendly peanut butter
Always supervise — especially with frozen berries or food-stuffed toys.
When to Avoid Blackberries
Skip blackberries altogether if your dog:
- Has a sensitive stomach
- Is diabetic or needs a low-sugar diet
- Has had a reaction to berries in the past
- Is prone to choking on small, soft foods
If in doubt, check with your vet — especially if your dog is on medication or a special diet
FAQs
Can dogs eat blackberries every day?
No. Blackberries are best enjoyed as an occasional treat, rather than a daily snack. Too many can upset your dog’s digestion.
Are blackberries better than shop-bought dog treats?
In small amounts, fresh blackberries are a healthy, natural alternative to processed treats. But they shouldn’t replace a balanced diet.
What do I do if my dog eats too many blackberries?
Watch for signs of an upset stomach. Withhold food for a few hours (but offer water) and monitor closely. If symptoms are severe or persist for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian.
Final Thoughts
Blackberries are safe for dogs to eat — as long as you keep them small, clean, and occasional.
They’re a healthy and hydrating treat, especially in the summer. Just remember:
- Wash them well
- Stick to a few at a time
- Avoid wild berries unless you know they’re safe
Looking for other summer-safe dog treat ideas? Or need support with keeping your pet calm, hydrated, and happy during the holidays?
I offer practical help and advice for dog, cat, and small pet owners across Finchley and beyond — from pop-in visits to complete house sitting.
If you’re stuck or have questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Find out what Paws and Claws has to say about blackberries.