Are Frenchies Allowed to Eat Strawberries? A Guide for French Bulldog Owners

If you’re a French bulldog parent wondering whether your frenchie can safely enjoy strawberries, the good news is yes—they absolutely can. However, because frenchies are a smaller breed with specific dietary needs, there are important guidelines you should follow to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy while enjoying this sweet treat.

Why Strawberries Are a Great Option for Your Frenchie

Strawberries make an excellent healthy snack for frenchies, especially those watching their weight. Unlike many commercial dog treats that are high in calories, fresh strawberries offer a nutrient-dense alternative that won’t pack on the pounds. “Strawberries are a safe and healthy treat for most dogs due to their low-calorie and high-nutrient content,” explains Dr. Jennifer Power, D.V.M., senior veterinarian at Small Door Vet, a veterinary facility specializing in canine nutrition.

What makes strawberries particularly suitable for frenchies is their exceptional nutritional profile. They deliver substantial health benefits without the caloric load of traditional dog treats, making them ideal for your frenchie’s diet.

Safe Portions: How Many Strawberries Can Your Frenchie Have?

The key to feeding strawberries to your frenchie is understanding appropriate portion sizes. According to guidelines from Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Since three medium strawberries contain approximately 16 calories, you can calculate appropriate portions for your specific frenchie’s weight and daily calorie needs using resources like the Pet Nutrition Alliance’s calorie calculator.

For frenchies specifically, smaller portions work best. “Typically, one or two strawberries per serving is sufficient for small dogs like frenchies, while larger breeds can have a few more,” notes Dr. Power. When introducing strawberries to your frenchie for the first time, start with just one berry to monitor how their digestive system responds.

It’s crucial not to overindulge your frenchie with strawberries, as excess portions can trigger gastric upset, diarrhea, and increased thirst due to the fruit’s natural sugar content. Dr. Wendy Hauser, D.V.M., founder of Peak Veterinary Consulting and special advisor to the ASPCA Pet Health Insurance program, emphasizes that moderation is essential for maintaining your frenchie’s digestive health.

Preparing and Serving Strawberries to Frenchies Safely

The safest approach to feeding strawberries to your frenchie involves proper preparation. Wash the berries thoroughly, remove the stem completely, and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces appropriate for your frenchie’s mouth size. “Unless it is a small strawberry, it should be at least cut in half,” recommends Dr. Hauser, especially considering frenchies’ relatively small jaws.

Stick exclusively to fresh or frozen berries when feeding your frenchie. “I would strictly avoid any sweetened or syrupy versions,” advises Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, D.V.M., veterinary medical advisor for Rover. Frozen strawberries make an excellent summer treat for frenchies and can be slightly defrosted before serving to prevent potential tooth damage.

Remove strawberry leaves before giving them to your frenchie. While not technically toxic, the leaves are bitter and can cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset in smaller breeds like frenchies.

Strawberry Nutrition and Health Benefits for French Bulldogs

Strawberries are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that support your frenchie’s overall wellness. One cup of fresh sliced strawberries contains approximately 3.32 grams of fiber, 97.6 mg of vitamin C, 254 mg of potassium, and 26.6 mg of calcium, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. These nutrients work together to promote your frenchie’s long-term health.

Vitamin C Protection: Strawberries’ high vitamin C content acts as a powerful antioxidant that blocks damage from free radicals—factors implicated in cancer, heart disease, and arthritis. Vitamin C also supports tissue growth and repair, helping form collagen essential for your frenchie’s skin, tendons, and blood vessels.

Digestive Support: The fiber in strawberries helps your frenchie feel fuller longer, which is particularly beneficial if your frenchie struggles with weight management. Fiber also promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation, keeping your frenchie’s gastrointestinal system functioning optimally.

Calorie-Conscious Choice: Strawberries’ naturally low calorie content makes them ideal for frenchies on controlled diets. Unlike many traditional treats, strawberries deliver satisfaction and nutrients without excess calories—a significant advantage for maintaining your frenchie’s healthy weight.

Beyond nutritional benefits, sharing strawberries with your frenchie creates a bonding experience. “The main benefit of sharing a strawberry with your dog is the enjoyment of seeing them receive a treat,” says Dr. Hauser.

Freezing, Drying, and Other Strawberry Variations for Frenchies

Frozen strawberries are perfectly safe for frenchies and provide refreshing relief on hot days. Many frenchies enjoy frozen strawberries because they take longer to thaw and eat, adding an element of entertainment. Always slice frozen strawberries into smaller pieces to reduce choking risk and serve them slightly defrosted.

For freeze-dried strawberries, exercise caution. While the strawberries themselves are safe, many processed versions contain additives, preservatives, and extra sugars potentially harmful to your frenchie’s diet. “It’s best to dehydrate them yourself at home if you can,” recommends Dr. Greenstein.

Other Safe Fruits Your Frenchie Will Love

Beyond strawberries, numerous fruits provide excellent nutritional options for frenchies. When serving any fruit to your frenchie, cut harder varieties into small, manageable pieces and remove seeds, cores, stems, or peels:

• Blueberries (excellent antioxidant source)
• Bananas (rich in potassium, serve sparingly)
• Watermelon (hydrating and low-calorie, remove seeds and rind)
• Cantaloupe (nutritious alternative, remove seeds and rind)
• Oranges (offer in small amounts, remove seeds)
• Cucumbers (hydrating and crunchy)
• Pineapple (digestive enzyme support)
• Kiwi (vitamin-rich option)
• Apples (remove seeds and core)

These alternatives ensure your frenchie receives varied nutritional benefits from natural fruit sources while maintaining their health and wellness. Always introduce new fruits gradually and watch for any adverse digestive reactions.

Before making significant dietary changes for your frenchie, consulting with your veterinarian ensures you’re making choices aligned with your individual dog’s health status and nutritional requirements.