Whether you like to snack on cranberries all year round or prefer to save this treat for the fall season, you may be wondering if you can share this fruit with your furry friend. 

So, can dogs eat cranberries? Absolutely–cranberries are generally safe for dogs to enjoy as long as they’re given in moderation. However, there are a few things to know before sprinkling dried berries into their food. 

Here’s our guide on everything you need to know about safely feeding your dog cranberries. Plus, we’ll teach you how to incorporate them into your pup’s diet without upsetting their stomach. 

Are cranberries bad for dogs?

In general, cranberries are a safe snack for your dog to enjoy. In fact, they’re an excellent source of natural vitamins and minerals. Such nutrients can support your pup’s health and wellness. 

So, are cranberries bad for dogs? When fed and prepared correctly, this fruit won’t negatively impact your pups’ health. However, there are some concerns to be aware of before feeding this winter berry to your furry friend. 

Can dogs eat dried cranberries? 

Dried cranberries are safe to feed your dog–but only in moderation. Dried cranberries provide a satisfying texture that dogs love. But make sure you’re only feeding 100% dried cranberries and no craisins or raisins. 

Raisins are commonly found in mixtures with dried cranberries. It’s critical to avoid feeding your dog raisins at all costs. Grapes are extremely toxic for dogs and can lead to renal failure and even death. 

Can dogs have cranberry sauce?

Cranberries and dried cranberries are safe for dogs in moderate servings. But can dogs have cranberry sauce, too? While this seems like a sweet treat for your pup to enjoy, cranberry sauce offers minimal benefits for dogs. 

Most cranberry sauce is canned or pre-made. Canned foods can contain high levels of sodium, sugar, preservatives, and other artificial ingredients that extend their shelf life. However, these ingredients are not good for your pup to eat and outweigh the benefits of cranberries. Stick with fresh or dried cranberries instead.

The Benefits of Cranberries for Dogs

Fresh cranberries or dried cranberries are nutritious snacks for dogs. Here’s what this fruit has to offer our dogs: 

• Thiamin helps convert food into energy for the body to use while also promoting healthy muscle function.
• Riboflavin is essential for energy, cellular development and function, metabolizing fat, and much more. 
• Vitamin B6 is vital for cognitive function and development, as well as normal immune system and nervous system function.
• Vitamin C is necessary for immune health. This vitamin is also essential for absorbing iron into the body and keeping bones and teeth strong. 
• Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, combating free radicals and oxidative stress. This helps protect the body. 

How to Safely Feed Cranberries for Dogs

Like all other foods, too much of a good thing can be harmful. Stick with small amounts of berries as an occasional treat or topper. Treat each cranberry, fresh or dried, like a treat. Just a few pieces will have your pup more than grateful!

Excessive cranberry consumption can also lead to a vitamin deficiency. Your pup may be eating too many cranberries, which contain lots of natural sugars, and less of the other foods they need to thrive. Lastly, too many cranberries can lead to stomach discomfort and gastrointestinal issues. 

Why We Add Cranberries to Sundays’ Dog Food

Here at Sundays, our dog food is thoughtfully crafted with cranberries. It’s only takes up a small portion of our air-dried dog food recipes, but it makes all the difference. Along with berries, Sundays for Dogs is made with real meat, veggies, and other superfoods to help your dog thrive. 

While you can give your dog a few cranberries as a treat every now and then, we can make it even easier. Choose a dog food that incorporates cranberries in every bite so you can rest easy knowing your pup is healthy and happy. 

Sundays’ low and slow air-drying method allows our food to be 100% human-grade dog food. After all, your pup is part of your family, too. Subscribe to Sundays for Dogs and enjoy giving your dog cranberries at every meal without the hassle.