ChocolateLabs
Can Labs Eat It? Food Safety
Blueberries are about as easy as dog treats get: no peeling, no pits, under a calorie each. They’re safe for Labs and make good bite-size training rewards.
Why blueberries are a good pick
The AKC points to their vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants, and notes research suggesting antioxidants may help with brain aging in dogs. For Labs, the bigger win is calories. USDA data put 50 blueberries at about 39 calories, under 1 calorie a berry, and a full cup at about 84.
How many?
Keep all treats under about 10% of daily calories. By the Merck Veterinary Manual formula, a 70 lb neutered adult Lab needs about 1,500 kcal a day, so roughly 150 kcal is the whole treat budget. A small handful of blueberries fits easily, alongside a few training treats. The AKC stresses that blueberries should be an occasional treat, not a big part of the diet. Run your own dog’s numbers in the calorie calculator.
How to serve them
- Wash them to remove dirt and residue.
- Fresh or frozen both work. Frozen berries are a nice warm-weather snack.
- Use them for training. They’re small enough to hand out one at a time during basic command practice.
- Start small with a dog who hasn’t had them, and watch for loose stools.
The AKC notes their size can be a choking risk mainly for very small dogs. Skip muffins, pies, yogurt cups and anything sweetened, which add sugar and sometimes xylitol.
Don’t mix up blueberries and grapes
Blueberries are safe. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs. If your Lab eats grapes, call your vet or a pet poison line right away.
More fruit Labs can have: strawberries, watermelon, apples. Or see the whole Can Labs eat it? series.