Strawberry leaves are edible, but they are not part of a balanced diet. They contain oxalic acid, which is harmful to dogs.
Strawberry leaves can cause stomach upset and diarrhea if ingested in large quantities. In addition, the leaves contain various compounds that may be damaging in large amounts.
According to PetMD, one dog owner reported that her dog became ill after eating strawberry plants. The vet attributed the illness to oxalic acid poisoning from eating too many leaves.
Strawberries are a member of the rose family, which means that they have tiny hairs on their leaves, stems and flowers. These hairs can cause an allergic reaction in some dogs.
The leaves themselves are not toxic to dogs, but if your dog has allergies to rose family plants like strawberries or raspberries, he might also be allergic to other members of the rose family such as dogs eating apples, cherries and peaches.
If your dog is known to be allergic to strawberries or other fruits in this group and you suspect he has eaten any part of a plant in this family, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What are strawberry leaves?
The strawberry plant is an example of a “deciduous” plant, which means that it loses its leaves in the winter.
In spring, new leaves emerge from the roots of your strawberry plant. The leaves are light green at first and then turn dark green as they mature. The bottom edge of each leaf has small teeth that help it cling to twigs and branches. The top part of each leaf is smooth, but there is a slight depression on the underside where it attaches to the stem.
Strawberry leaves grow all year long and are evergreen in warm climates. In colder areas, they may die back to ground level during winter months but return in spring with new growth.
Strawberry plants produce flowers in spring or early summer. Each flower resembles a tiny white rosebud with five petals and sepals (the outermost layer of the flower). These flowers are pollinated by bees or other insects, after which they develop into berries within two weeks.
Conclusion – is it safe for a dog to eat strawberry leaves?
No, dogs should not eat strawberry leaves. While they are not toxic, they can cause stomach upset and other digestive problems. The leaves are also difficult to digest and can cause intestinal blockages. If your dog does eat strawberry leaves, it is important to watch them closely for any signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Here are some safe and healthy fruits that you can give your dog:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Cantaloupe
- Grapes
- Honeydew melon
- Oranges
- Peaches
- Pears
- Pineapple
- Strawberries
It is important to cut these fruits into small pieces to prevent choking. You should also avoid giving your dog fruit pits, seeds, or stems, as these can be harmful.
If you are unsure about whether or not a particular food is safe for your dog, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian.
