Nothing says Thanksgiving like turkey, gravy and cranberry sauce. Cranberries are nutritional powerhouses for humans, since they’re packed full of vitamin C, fiber, and anthocyanins. They even contain a substance called D-mannose that can support urinary tract health. The compounds in cranberries can also help to prevent health problems like heart disease and cancer. Even better, your dog may be able to enjoy similar health benefits from consuming cranberries.
Of course, most people don’t eat cranberries raw or plain. This is why some cranberry dishes are not the most healthy option on the table. Since the berries are so sour, many of us need lots of added sugar in order to enjoy them. The homemade cranberry sauce on your Thanksgiving table might have lots of antioxidants in it, but it’s also full of sugar. And while humans should consume sugar in moderation, it’s even more important for dogs to avoid excess sugar. Otherwise, your dog could end up with gastrointestinal symptoms that put a damper on your holiday celebration.
So, can these festive berries become part of your dog’s diet this holiday season? They can if they’re prepared in the right ways. Keep reading to learn more about adding cranberries to your dog’s diet, and discover some great recipes for making cranberry dog treats at home!
Can My Dog Really Eat Cranberries?
Cranberries are safe for your dog to consume in moderation. However, there are a couple of caveats to keep in mind.
Eating too many cranberries can give your dog an upset stomach or harm their urinary tract.
Your dog is more likely to enjoy eating cranberries when they’re mixed with other ingredients.
Cranberries mixed with any other ingredients or fruits are not safe for your dog to consume.
When adding cranberries to homemade dog treats, it’s important to use them sparingly. But in small quantities, these tart berries are a great way to add nutrition and flavor to your dog’s snacks.
Recipe #1: Holiday Cranberry Dog Cookies
Who doesn’t love a fresh batch of holiday cookies? If you’ve got a collection of cookie cutters you’re ready to break out, this recipe is for you. Whether you’re making turkeys, stars or tree shapes, your dog is sure to love this simple cookie recipe. In fact, you might want to sample these treats yourself!
Ingredients:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup whole oats
4 tablespoons melted butter
1 egg
1/4 cup molasses
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup fresh cranberries, pureed
Grease one or two cookie sheets and preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix all ingredients in a bowl, adding up to 1/2 cup of water to make a dough. Then, turn onto a floured countertop. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters and place them on a cookie sheet. Bake for half an hour, then turn off the oven. Allow to cool for several hours before removing from the oven.
Recipe #2: Cranberry Pumpkin Doggy Popsicles
Frozen treats have plenty of entertainment value for dogs. Since it may take a while for your dog to finish their treat, make sure to serve these on a surface that’s easy to clean. You should also supervise your dog while they enjoy their treat.
This treat recipe incorporates pumpkin for added nutritional benefits. Vets recommend pumpkin to support dogs’ digestive systems, since it contains plenty of fiber that can keep them regular. Since pumpkin is low in calories, it can also help your dog maintain a healthy weight.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup fresh cranberries, pureed
1/2 cup pumpkin
1 cup plain broth from turkey, chicken or beef (make sure no salt, seasonings or vegetables were added)
1 tablespoon honey, optional
The best part about this recipe is finding cute molds for your dog’s frozen treats. Look for silicone molds in any shape you like! Simply mix all the ingredients together in a blender, pour into molds, and freeze for several hours.
Recipe #3: Cranberry No-Bake Dog Cookies
No-bake cookies for humans are simple but delicious, and they often feature standbys like chocolate and peanut butter. We’ve mixed things up with these simple cranberry no-bake treats for your dog. They’re quick and easy to make, even on the busiest days.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup cranberries
1 tablespoon coconut oil
Place the oats and cranberries into a food processor and blend well. Then, add the coconut oil. Roll into small balls and serve! You’ll need to refrigerate these treats if they last more than a day.
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