The strawberry grows underneath the nettle, and wholesome berries thrive and ripen best neighboured by fruit of baser quality
Shakespeare, King Henry V, Act 1 Scene 1

 

Strawberries, the vibrant red fruit with their sweet and slightly tart flavour, have been enjoyed by humans for centuries. The ancient Romans believed strawberries had medicinal properties and used them to treat various ailments. A symbol of goodness, purity and even modesty, these fruits were used to treat everything from depressive illnesses to supporting fertility and healing wounds. And even as a skin tonic.

Strawberries: nutrients and benefits

 

Today, strawberries are celebrated not only for their delicious taste but also for their impressive nutritional profile, which offers numerous health benefits for both humans and dogs alike. As a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food that is high in fibre and antioxidants, strawberries can be a valuable and tasty addition to the Well Dog Pantry.

Main Nutrients
Fibre
Strawberries are a good source of dietary fibre, which is essential for maintaining healthy digestion in dogs. Fibre helps regulate bowel movements and supports overall gastrointestinal health. By aiding in the absorption of nutrients and promoting regularity, the fibre in strawberries contributes to a balanced digestive system and can help prevent constipation.
Water
As strawberries comprise approximately 90% water, they are an excellent means of hydration, especially during warmer months or after physical activity.
Antioxidants
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and phenolic compounds. These powerful antioxidants help neutralise free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and support overall cellular health. For dogs, antioxidants are crucial in protecting against various diseases, promoting longevity, and supporting a healthy immune system. For example, supplementation of strawberry drier extracts significantly reduced exercise-produced oxidative stress in healthy dogs[1].

Main Vitamins
Vitamin C
Strawberries are packed with vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that supports the immune system, aids in collagen synthesis, and promotes healthy skin and connective tissues in dogs. Unlike humans, dogs can synthesise vitamin C in their bodies, but additional vitamin C from dietary sources like strawberries can provide extra support, particularly during times of stress or illness.
Folate (Vitamin B9)
Folate is vital for DNA synthesis and repair, supporting cell division and overall growth and development in dogs. This is particularly important for pregnant dogs to ensure healthy foetal development. The folate in strawberries also contributes to red blood cell formation and helps prevent anaemia.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, bone health and cardiovascular health. Whilst dogs are able to synthesise some vitamin K in a healthy gut, it may not always be enough for their overall nutritional requirements. Factors such as diet, gut health and antibiotic use may also affect a dog’s ability to produce and/or absorb sufficient vitamin K. As vitamin K is not stored in large amounts in the body, dietary intake of vitamin K from strawberries and can ensure adequate levels.

Minerals
Potassium
Strawberries contain potassium, an essential mineral that supports heart health and muscle function in dogs. Potassium helps maintain proper fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. It is particularly beneficial for active dogs, ensuring they remain energetic and healthy.
Manganese
Manganese is a trace mineral found in strawberries that plays a role in bone development and wound healing. It is also involved in the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates, contributing to overall energy production and enzyme function in dogs.

Benefits – Key Takeaways:

 

Immune Support
Strawberries offer substantial immune support due to their high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants. Vitamin C helps bolster the immune system by enhancing the body’s ability to fight off infections and diseases. The antioxidants in strawberries further contribute by reducing inflammation and protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. This combination of nutrients supports a robust immune defence, helping dogs stay healthy and resilient against illness.
Hydration
Proper hydration is essential: it supports vital functions such as temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and waste elimination. Including water-rich foods like strawberries, watermelon and cucumber in a dog’s diet can contribute to their overall hydration, ensuring they stay well-hydrated and healthy. (For more information on hydration, see Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.)
Skin and Coat Health
The antioxidants and vitamin C found in strawberries are beneficial for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat in dogs. Vitamin C it is necessary for collagen synthesis, which supports skin elasticity and wound healing. The antioxidants help protect the skin from oxidative stress, which can cause premature aging and other skin-related issues. Regular inclusion of strawberries in a dog’s diet can contribute to a healthier, more vibrant coat.
Digestive Health
The dietary fibre in strawberries supports digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Fibre also plays a role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome by supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria. A balanced gut flora is essential for optimal digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gastrointestinal health.
Weight Management
Strawberries are low in calories and high in water content, making them an excellent choice for dogs that need to manage their weight. The fibre in strawberries promotes a feeling of fullness, which can help reduce overeating without adding excess calories to the diet. As a healthy, low-calorie treat, strawberries can be a great option for overweight dogs or those on a weight-control diet.
However, strawberries do contain some natural sugars: up to 7 g per 100 g of fruit, primarily in the form of fructose, glucose, and some sucrose, which is relatively low compared to many other fruits. Although fibre regulates the release of sugar into the bloodstream and reduces the risk of spikes in blood sugar levels, they should nevertheless be offered in moderation.
Joints
Strawberries contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in dogs, particularly those with conditions such as arthritis[2]. Dietary fruits like strawberries are a source of several polyphenols and preclinical studies have shown the role of berry polyphenols in improving symptoms of arthritis and osteoarthritis in animals[3]. The antioxidants and phytochemicals in strawberries can aid in alleviating inflammation, contributing to improved joint health and overall comfort in dogs, especially those with age-related mobility issues.
Anti-cancer
Studies into berry fruits have provided overwhelming evidence of the beneficial effects of soft flesh berries[4]. The anti-cancer potential is linked to the many phytochemicals in these fruits, including polyphenols[5].
Cardiovascular Health
The potassium and fibre content in strawberries contribute to cardiovascular health by helping to maintain healthy blood pressure levels and supporting heart function. The antioxidants in strawberries also play a role in protecting the heart by reducing oxidative stress and preventing damage to heart cells.

References:

[1] Kei Anne Baritugo, Allah Bakhsh, Bosung Kim, Sungkwon Park, Perspectives on functional foods for improvement of canine health and treatment of diseases, Journal of Functional Foods, Volume 109, 2023,105744, ISSN 1756-4646, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2023.105744.
[2] Basu A , Schell J , Scofield RH . Dietary fruits and arthritis. Food Funct. 2018 Jan 24;9(1):70-77. doi: 10.1039/c7fo01435j. PMID: 29227497; PMCID: PMC5788027.
[3]  Figueira ME, Câmara MB, Direito R, Rocha J, Serra AT, Duarte CM, Fernandes A, Freitas M, Fernandes E, Marques MC, Bronze MR, Sepodes B. Chemical characterization of a red raspberry fruit extract and evaluation of its pharmacological effects in experimental models of acute inflammation and collagen-induced arthritis. Food Funct. 2014;5(12):3241–51
[4] Seeram NP, Adams LS, Zhang Y, Lee R, Sand D, Scheuller HS, Heber D. Blackberry, black raspberry, blueberry, cranberry, red raspberry, and strawberry extracts inhibit growth and stimulate apoptosis of human cancer cells in vitro. J Agric Food Chem. 2006;54(25):9329–39.
[5] Seeram NP. Berry fruits for cancer prevention: current status and future prospects. J Agric Food Chem. 2008 Feb 13;56(3):630-5. doi: 10.1021/jf072504n. Epub 2008 Jan 23. PMID: 18211019.

 

Want to know more? These studies may be useful:

  • Forbes-Hernandez TY, Gasparrini M, Afrin S, Bompadre S, Mezzetti B, Quiles JL, Giampieri F, Battino M. The Healthy Effects of Strawberry Polyphenols: Which Strategy behind Antioxidant Capacity? Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2016 Jul 29;56 Suppl 1:S46-59. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2015.1051919. PMID: 26357900.
  • Basu, A., Nguyen, A., Betts, N. M., & Lyons, T. J. (2013). Strawberry As a Functional Food: An Evidence-Based Review. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 54(6), 790–806. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2011.608174
  • Oviedo-Solís CI, Cornejo-Manzo S, Murillo-Ortiz BO, Guzmán-Barrón MM, Ramírez-Emiliano J. Los polifenoles de la fresa disminuyen el estrés oxidativo en enfermedades crónicas [Strawberry polyphenols decrease oxidative stress in chronic diseases]. Gac Med Mex. 2018;154(1):80-86. Spanish. doi: 10.24875/GMM.17002759. PMID: 29420521.

 

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Nutritional information:

Strawberries, raw   100 g

Nutrient table for strawberries

For full nutrient content see Food Data Central

Important Considerations:

  • Always consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes, particularly where there are pre-existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.
  • If you are feeding commercial food, check the label for ingredients before giving more. Excessive intake of any foods can have adverse effects.
  • Ensure (where possible) that you use high-quality, organic products specifically formulated for pets (or better still, human grade ingredients) to avoid any potential adverse effects.
  • Introduce new foods gradually to avoid adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or diarrhoea.
  • I provide nutritional information purely as a helpful guide. Nutritional information on ingredients is obtained from the US Department of Agriculture’s FoodData Central site (https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/index.html) and any nutritional information provided in recipes is based on an online calculator: calories and other information will vary based on brands, ingredients and other factors.
  • Check nutrient levels and recommendations for your dog’s weight, age and activity. For example this nutritional guideline produced by FEDIAF.
  • I am not a professional nutritionist. I am sharing recipes that I have created and tested in my kitchen and that have been tasted and approved by our doggy friends.