Last updated on March 20th, 2023 at 10:10 pm

Reading Time: 6 minutes

Can Dogs Have Acai Berries?

ACAI berries, though tiny, are packed with amazing health benefits. Since they provide so many benefits for us, they should be good for dogs as well, right? Well, that’s not the full case.

Quick Answer

Dogs can eat ACAI berries. However, it is not recommended. ACAI berries contain a compound called ‘theobromine.’ It is the same compound found in chocolates and is poisonous to dogs. It has been confirmed that a small amount of these berries is okay for dogs, but taking in large amounts can be hazardous.  

Wanting your dog to eat healthy is understandable. However, just because something has good health benefits for you doesn’t mean it’s safe for your dog. Let’s take a look at why Acai berries aren’t recommended for your dog.

Let’s Jump In!

Can Dogs Eat Acai Berries? – Detailed Answer  

Acai berries indeed have lots of health benefits for humans. They contain lots of antioxidants and vitamin A, fiber, and calcium, making them really good for us to eat. However, the same can’t be said for dogs. You may feel tempted to feed your dog some of these delicious berries, but it’s advised that you need to avoid them.  

Typically, Acai berries can have some minor health benefits if given small amounts. 

• Improved immune system, as acai berries have lots of antioxidants. 
• Stronger and healthier bones and teeth because of the calcium. 
• Acai berries can also relieve arthritis in dogs. 

So, feeding your dog acai berries can have good benefits. However, it’s too risky. 

Theobromine poisoning can occur in dogs because of Acai, so it’s highly recommended that you not feed your dog acai, especially when so many healthier alternatives are present. 

Can Puppies Eat Acai?

Similarly, to matured dogs. Puppies should not eat acai at all. They are still maturing and giving them acai berries containing a lot of toxicity is bad for their health and growth. 

So, avoid giving your puppy acai berries and be extra careful if you are eating them yourself around them. Don’t be tempted to give them.  

Safeness: 4/10

Hazards: Puppies maturing, theobromine poisoning

Is Acai Toxic To Dogs?

Acai berries are toxic to dogs if eaten too many and not with the proper care. They contain harmful substances such as theobromine which can lead to serious health issues. So it’s best to avoid these when it comes to feeding them to your dog.https://youtu.be/oDWl8JVOPnE

Theobromine Poisoning in Dogs 

Acai berries contain theobromine, the same compound found in chocolates that we all know can lead to poisoning in dogs. 

It’s extremely harmful and can severely damage your dog’s health. That’s why it is strongly advised not to give your dog acai berries, even in little amounts. 

If your dog ate multiple Acai berries by mistake, it could experience the following symptoms from minor theobromine poisoning: 

• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Increased thirst 
• Panting 
• Excessive urination 
• Restlessness 

These are just mild symptoms for theobromine, the symptoms can vary in severe cases. 

• Seizures 
• Muscle tremors 
• Hearth failure 
• Pneumonia 

If your dog is experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should call your vet immediately and get him treated. 

Overall Conclusion

Overall, ACAI berries can be harmful to your dog, and it s in your dog’s best interest to not feed these berries, to keep him safe.  

How Many Acai Berries are Safe for Dogs? 

Well, it’s hard to say the exact number of berries that are safe for dogs. Since, multiple factors come into play and consideration.

Factors That Come Into play

• Age
• Breed
• Size
• Health

However, after some research we came up with the following conclusion.

You can’t feed the same amount of Acai Berries to all dog breeds and that goes for age as well. 

You need to consider their age, weight, breed, size, level of activity, and dietary needs. 

What Berries Can I Give My Dog Instead of Acai? 

There are so many safer and healthier alternatives than when it comes to Acai berries. If you want to feed your dog fruits and berries that are safe for him. Take a look at the below-mentioned fruits and berries. 

They are safe for dogs and have great health benefits as well. 

• Blueberries 

Blueberries are a great alternative for acai if you want to feed your dog berries. They are rich in antioxidants which can reduce the chances of cancer and prevent internal damage in dogs. Blueberries are a super-fruit that makes a great low-calorie treat for your dog. It’s safe and healthy! 

Safeness: 9/10

• Raspberries 

Raspberries are another good option if you want to incorporate some berries into your dog’s diet. However, they should be given in moderation as they contain xylitol. They are high in antioxidants and low in calories, which is good because that means your dog has a sweet treat without too much sugar. They also have manganese, fiber, and vitamin C.  

Safeness: 7/10

Hazard: Too Many

• Cranberries 

Cranberries or dried cranberries both make a great tarty treat for your dog. They have great health benefits. 

Such as, improving your dog’s bladder and helping with kidney-related problems. It can reduce tartar and plaque build-up and greatly decrease cancer chances.

Safeness: 8/10

Hazard: Too Many

Benefits: Decrease Cancer Chances, Improve Bladder

What Fruits Can I Give My Dog Instead Of Acai?

• Apples 

It is unnecessary to feed your dog berries because some fruits are much healthier than berries. Apples are one of them. Apples contain fibers, vitamin A and C in high amounts, which helps your dog with digestion and the development of bones and teeth as well. Just make sure to remove the seed and core before giving it to your dog. 

Safeness: 9/10

Hazard: Seed, Core contains cyanide 

• Mangoes 

Mangoes can be a great sweet summer treat for your dog. They are packed with Vitamin A, B6, C, and E making them a nutritious treat. Just like always, make sure to remove the pit before giving it to your dog, as it contains cyanide and can be a choking hazard to your dog. 

Safeness: 9/10

Hazard: Seed

• Oranges 

Dogs can eat oranges but not all the time. Controlled intake of ranges can give your dog a lot of vitamins, potassium, and fiber. It can also be a really juicy treat for your dog, but they may not like the smell. 

Make sure you’re removing all the seeds and peels before giving them to your dog, as the peels of orange are hard on a dog’s digestive system. It can cause an upset stomach, and the oils from the peels can harm their sensitive nose. 

Safeness: 7/10

Hazard: Acid nature and smell can cause an upset stomach, Too many 

Conclusion – Can Dogs Eat Acai Berries?  

Acai berries are extremely harmful to dogs and can cause possible poisoning. A small amount won’t do much harm, but according to the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), it’s best for your dog’s safety to avoid Acai berries or smoothies altogether.

The theobromine present in acai is toxic to dogs and can lead to poisoning. That’s why to keep your dog safe, you should avoid these berry treats. 

Continue Reading:

Can Dogs Eat Poppy Seeds?