Can Dogs Eat Sugarberries? What are Their Benefits and Risks?

Introduction

The Purdue University Agriculture Department, in a Sugarberry/Hackberry definition article, confirmed them the same tree species. Hackberry grows in the great Plaines extending to the east coast, and again in the Great lakes states up to Arkansas and Tennessee.

Sugarberry is Hackberry’s southern counterpart in Indiana, southern and northern Illinois, Virginia, and southern Florida. All that qualifies them to get used interchangeably even when addressing our question on can dogs eat sugarberries?

Joanna Brichetto on January 20, 2017, posted in the Nashville, Nature stating that “Our dog loves hackberry trees. If a hackberry seedling or leaves are within her range, she will find and eat them. Around, you may find other trees like althea, privet, baby elm, or honeysuckle. But, she only goes for hackberry”.

Why are Sugarberries Good for Dogs?

A Nutrition research paper posted on the Willey Online Library indicated that sugarberry counterpart hackberry fruit contains proteins, vitamins, and dietary fiber that are ideal for your dog’s well-being. It also has pigments like B-carotene, lutein, Zeaxanthin, and tocopherols.  Sugarberries have the following benefits for your dog:

  • The sugarberries get packed with dietary fiber and vitamins A, B1, B2, and C. They have a delicious taste and can enhance your dog’s urinary tract health. Although you can’t use them for your dog’s bladder infections or stomach ulcers, they can help fast recovery.
  • Like other berries, sugarberries make a whole nutrition source for your young dog. It’s full of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, making it a good snack for your pet. Sugarberries also contain enzymes that enhance the health of your dog’s teeth.
  • Most food manufacturers formulate their dog chews with sugarberries as essential ingredients. The dog food apart from its nutrition benefits also enhances plaque accumulation and remove stubborn stains of tartar making your dog’s breath fresh.
  • Sugarberries contain low calories, high Vitamins C and K content, and antioxidant properties that help in boosting the overall health of your dog.  Additionally, the berries help to fight some diseases and improve the immune system of your dog. If you get advised to give your young dog berry-based snacks, you can check for all-natural dog foods formulated with sugarberries. They provide you with low-calorie dog treats.
Sugarberries

Can Sugarberries be Bad for Dogs?

The following are the possible risks to dogs when they consume sugarberries;

  • Sugarberries are versatile and nutritious, a fact that can tempt you to give your dog high quantities. Although having low calories and sugar, it still contains natural sugar. Excess consumption can, therefore, lead to digestive problems and cavities.
  • The berries small size and your dog’s high appetite for them can pose the dangers of choking. Ensure to watch out carefully as you do the feeding and also apply moderation.

How to Prepare and Serve Sugarberries?

You can give fresh sugarberries to your dogs, but it’s even better to freeze them to make a cold dog treat during warmer days. It also makes it easier if you chop them up and mix them with the dog’s food.

You can also try a wide range of dog food with sugarberries added to avoid the hassles of preparation.

Sources

  1. Hackberry/Sugarberry, Daniel L. Cassens
  2. Hackberry Jam, 2017, Joanna Brichetto
  3. Can Dogs Eat Berries?, 2018, Canna-Pet

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Maria Klypo

Maria Klypo

As a dog and cat owner, Maria has a passion for her pets, and her mission is to help other pet owners live comfortably with each other by writing articles on pet-related topics. She is passionate about sharing knowledge and experiences on raising and spending time with furry friends, and she is always willing to learn from others' experiences.