Can Dogs Eat Cranberries? (2025)

NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new foods, especially “people foods.” What might be okay for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors, such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet.

Cranberries are a staple food during the holidays, and a healthy snack for humans. But are cranberries safe for dogs to eat? As with any other human food, the answer is a bit complicated.

When fed properly, cranberries can be a very healthy snack for dogs. But there are proper ways to feed them to your dog, and things you’ll want to avoid. Here’s all the info you need on potential dangers and benefits, along with the safest way to feed cranberries to your dog.

Are Cranberries Bad for Dogs?

Cranberries are not toxic or poisonous to dogs. You can feed cranberries to your pup fresh or dried, but they do need to be given in small portions, in moderation, stem-free, and completely plain.

Just be careful because cranberries look similar to raisins—and are sometimes mixed with other dried fruits like raisins—but dogs cannot eat raisins or grapes because they are both toxic to them.

Health Benefits of Cranberries for Dogs

Cranberries are quite a healthy treat for dogs. In fact, they are often found in dog food recipes because they are considered a superfood.

Cranberries contain a chemical compound that can help prevent urinary tract infections, although your dog will probably not be eating enough of them to see this benefit.

They are also high in fiber and antioxidants that help prevent disease and boost the immune system. The tiny seeds inside of fresh cranberries are also safe, edible, and nutritious.

Here are some of the vitamins and minerals that make them a superfood treat:

Can Dogs Eat Dried Cranberries?

Yes, dried cranberries are safe and healthy for dogs. They are easy on-the-go snacks, but there are a few things to watch out for.

  • Make sure there are no added sugars, preservatives, or other ingredients like xylitol—which is toxic to dogs.

  • Give them to your dog in small portions in moderation. Because dried cranberries are smaller, it’s easy to give too many to your pup, which can upset your dog’s stomach.

  • Even if there aren’t added sugars, the sugar content per ounce you give your pup is higher because the cranberries shrink during the drying process. And now they are a more condensed version of fresh cranberries.

  • Only feed your pup dried cranberries alone, not in a trail mix. There could be ingredients like raisins or chocolate in the trail mix that are toxic to dogs. And certain nuts can be harmful to dogs or become a choking hazard and potentially cause an intestinal blockage.

Can Dogs Have Cranberry Juice?

If the cranberry juice is 100% juice with no sugar added, then a little bit is okay for your dog. Too much will likely upset their stomach.

Do not give your pup a cranberry juice mix or cranberry juice cocktail. Those will most certainly have lots of sugar, which isn’t good for your dog. They may also contain ingredients that are not safe for your pup.

Can Dogs Eat Cranberry Sauce?

Cranberry sauce isn’t toxic for dogs, but it isn’t the healthiest thing for them, either. Cranberry sauce contains quite a bit of sugar. This would be very bad for dogs with diabetes or other sugar-sensitive diseases.

Otherwise, if a healthy dog ate a little bit, they’ll probably be fine. But too much sugar could give your dog an upset stomach and potentially cause diarrhea or vomiting.

Can Dogs Have Cranberry Supplements?

Yes. There are actually many dog supplements that contain cranberries to help support dog urinary health. Talk with your vet about which brand they recommend and if they think this is a good idea for your dog, as well as the proper dosage.

Can I Give My Dog Human Cranberry Supplements?

No. Dogs should not be given supplements made for humans. Dogs have a different body makeup than we do, and there are different vitamins and ingredients—as well as portion sizes—that are safe for them versus what is safe for a human.

How Much Cranberry Can Dogs Have?

Any treat for a dog—even the healthy ones—should only make up 10% of their daily diet, while the other 90% should come from a well-balanced dog food diet.

Here are some general guidelines on safe amounts of cranberries to feed your dog, based on their size and breed.

Even though fresh cranberries are small, it’s best to cut them into halves or quarters when feeding them to small-breed dogs.

If you are feeding dried cranberries to your dog, the same portions apply because your dog is still taking in the same number of cranberries—just in a condensed version.

  • Extra-small dog (2-20 lbs.) = 1-2 cranberries (Examples: Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Pugs, Shih Tzus)

  • Small dog (21-30 lbs.) = 2-3 cranberries (Examples: Basenjis, Beagles, Miniature Australian Shepherds)

  • Medium dog (31-50 lbs.) = 5-6 cranberries (Examples: Basset Hounds, Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs, Siberian Huskies)

  • Large dog (51-90 lbs.) = 8-10 cranberries (Examples: Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds)

  • Extra-large dog (91+ lbs.) = 10-15 cranberries (Examples: Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, St. Bernards, Great Pyrenees)

If your dog eats too many cranberries, the acidity will likely give them an upset stomach. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Diarrhea

  • Vomiting

  • Lack of appetite

  • Lethargy

  • Painful or distended stomach

How to Safely Feed Your Dog Cranberries

Here are a few tips on the best ways to feed cranberries to your dog:

Fresh cranberries

You can feed your dog a few fresh, plain, washed cranberries as a special treat, or cut them up and mix them into your dog’s food like a food topper.

Dried cranberries

One of the easiest ways to feed dogs cranberries is by using dried cranberries. Make sure there are no added sugars or other ingredients—or make them at home with your own dehydrator. Feed them to your pup like a regular treat or mix some into their bowl like a food topper.

Fruit smoothie or popsicle

Blend some fresh cranberries and other dog-safe fruits like bananas, strawberries, or blueberries. You can even mix in a little plain, sugar-free, xylitol-free yogurt.

Then use a a couple spoonfuls of this mixture as a food topper, freeze a little in a popsicle tray, or put it in your dog’s KONG toy to freeze for later.

Featured image: iStock.com/fotyma

Can Dogs Eat Cranberries? (2025)

FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Cranberries? ›

Yes, cranberries are perfectly safe for most dogs. Cranberries are a superfood full of antioxidants that offer numerous health benefits. Stick to feeding your dog fresh cranberries or dried cranberries, so long as they're not processed with added sugars or artificial sweeteners (such as xylitol).

How much cranberries can I give my dog? ›

If your dog is smaller, one or two berries will do. While cranberries are not toxic to canines, you'll want to make sure your dog isn't experiencing signs of gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting or diarrhea. Always give your dog cranberries in small quantities.

Why can't dogs have cranberries? ›

Cranberries are not toxic or poisonous to dogs. You can feed cranberries to your pup fresh or dried, but they do need to be given in small portions, in moderation, stem-free, and completely plain.

Can dogs eat ocean spray craisins, dried cranberries? ›

Both fresh and dried cranberries are safe to feed to dogs in small quantities. Whether your dog will like this tart treat is another question. Either way, moderation is important when feeding cranberries to dogs, as with any treat, as too many can lead to an upset stomach.

Can I give my dog dried cranberries for UTI? ›

They're high in vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, along with being low in calories, so they make a wholesome little snack for dogs and people alike. Cranberries can also help combat a canine urinary tract infection, as they can in humans.

Can dogs have too much cranberry? ›

1. Acids: The acids in cranberry juice make it taste sour to your dog and can cause gastrointestinal upset when consumed in large quantities. 2. Calcium oxalates: Consuming large amounts of cranberry juice can lead to calcium oxalate stones (or kidney stones).

Can I give my dog Ocean Spray cranberries? ›

They can! Not only are cranberries good for dogs, they're also a yummy, year-round treat many pups love to gobble up.

Can dogs eat watermelon? ›

Yes, dogs can safely eat watermelon if prepared correctly. Like some other fruits, such as oranges, apples and peaches, and also berries (fun fact, in case you didn't know, watermelons are berries), such as strawberries, raspberries and blueberries, watermelon can be safe for dogs to eat as a healthy snack.

Can dogs have pineapple? ›

Dogs can eat pineapple, but in moderation. The fruit does not contain toxic or dangerous nutrients for dogs, but you should still monitor your pet for any unusual reactions, such as an upset stomach, especially the first time they eat pineapple.

Can dogs eat bananas? ›

Bananas are safe for dogs, but moderation is key. Bananas are high in sugar, so too much of it can put your dog at risk of developing medical conditions. You should give your dog only a few thin slices of banana once in a while. At least 90% of your dog's food should be regular dog food.

Can dogs have cheese? ›

Cheese can be given as an occasional treat in moderation, alongside a healthy diet. If your dog manages to eat a whole block or other large amount of cheese, they may vomit. Keep an eye on them, and call your vet for advice if they become unwell.

Can dogs eat blueberries? ›

Are Blueberries Good for Dogs? Yes, blueberries are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They also contain antioxidants, fiber and vitamins C and K. These nutrients support the immune system and contribute to overall health.

Can dogs have celery? ›

Celery is listed among the vegetables that are safe for dogs by multiple sources, including the veterinary website Vetstreet.com, and is often recommended as a weight-loss treat. Celery is very low in fat and cholesterol and is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, folate, potassium, and manganese.

Can dogs have cinnamon? ›

Is Cinnamon Toxic to Dogs? The good news is that cinnamon is not toxic to dogs, though cinnamon essential oil can be toxic for pups. Your dog will not suffer fatal toxic effects from consuming too much cinnamon, but that does not necessarily mean you should be sprinkling it on kibble.

Can dogs eat oatmeal? ›

The bottom line. When prepared properly, oatmeal can be a healthy addition to your dog's diet. Be sure to only feed dogs cooked oatmeal and opt for plain varieties prepared with water instead of milk. You should also increase their intake gradually to assess your dog's tolerance.

Can dogs have oranges? ›

Yes, dogs can eat oranges and other fruits like apples, watermelon, peaches and more. If you're about to eat an orange and want to share with your canine friend, here's what you need to know. Oranges can be a healthy snack for dogs, but serving large amounts of them can cause potential harm.

How do I add cranberries to my dogs food? ›

Cranberries can absolutely be part of your pup's diet in moderation. They can be added into your dog's dogs diet in various forms; raw fresh cranberries, dried cranberries, cranberry sauce and cranberry supplements for a boost in antioxidants and other health benefits.

How much cranberry juice can I give my dog for UTI? ›

To answer the question, "Can dogs have cranberry juice?" posed at the start of the article, cranberries (both fresh and dried) are safe for dogs and cats to consume, but only in small amounts. This is because the juice and sauce forms especially contain a lot of sugar, which can upset their stomachs [3].

Can you give human cranberry pills to dogs? ›

Since cranberries contain compounds called oxalates, there is a potential risk that giving cranberry supplements to cats or dogs, especially one that has already had oxalate crystals/stones or has a predisposition to forming oxalate crystals/stones, can increase their risk of developing oxalate urinary crystals and ...

Can dogs eat cranberry jelly in a jar? ›

While it's OK to give your dog plain cranberries, don't give them cranberry sauce or jelly. The iconic jellied concoction that adorns most Thanksgiving spreads is packed with sugar, and sometimes other ingredients, that aren't good for dogs.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Delena Feil

Last Updated:

Views: 6194

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (65 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Delena Feil

Birthday: 1998-08-29

Address: 747 Lubowitz Run, Sidmouth, HI 90646-5543

Phone: +99513241752844

Job: Design Supervisor

Hobby: Digital arts, Lacemaking, Air sports, Running, Scouting, Shooting, Puzzles

Introduction: My name is Delena Feil, I am a clean, splendid, calm, fancy, jolly, bright, faithful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.