Can Dogs Eat Goji Berries? Benefits, Risks & Safe Serving Guidelines

Picture this: You’re blending a vibrant smoothie, tossing in a handful of goji berries—those tiny, ruby-red “superfoods” you’ve heard are packed with antioxidants. Out of the corner of your eye, you spot your dog, Max, staring up at you with those big, pleading eyes. His tail thumps a rapid rhythm on the floor, and you can almost hear him thinking, “Hey, what about me?”

Goji berries have skyrocketed in popularity among humans for their nutrient-dense reputation, but when it comes to our furry friends, the question lingers: Can dogs eat goji berries? Are they a healthy addition to your pup’s treat rotation, or a risky snack best avoided?

In this guide, we’ll break down the facts—from potential benefits to hidden risks, serving guidelines, and even healthier alternatives—so you can make the best choice for your four-legged family member. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

• Can Dogs Eat Goji Berries? The Short Answer
• What Are Goji Berries, Anyway?
• Potential Benefits of Goji Berries for Dogs
  • Antioxidants for Eye & Immune Health
  • Fiber to Support Digestion
  • Potassium for Heart & Muscle Function
• Risks of Feeding Goji Berries to Dogs
  • High Sugar Content: A Slippery Slope
  • Stomach Upset: Too Much of a Good Thing
  • Choking Hazard: Small Berries, Big Risk for Small Dogs
• How Much Goji Berry Can Dogs Safely Eat? Serving Guidelines
  • Portion Sizes by Dog Size
  • Fresh vs. Dried Goji Berries: Which is Better?
• Healthier Alternatives to Goji Berries for Dogs
  • Blueberries: The Gold Standard
  • Raspberries: Fiber-Packed & Low-Sugar
  • Carrots: Crunchy & Nutrient-Dense
• FAQ: Your Goji Berry Questions Answered
• Conclusion: Moderation is Key—Prioritize Your Pup’s Health

Can Dogs Eat Goji Berries? The Short Answer

Yes, dogs can eat goji berries in very small, occasional amounts. They’re not toxic to dogs, and they do offer some nutrients. However, they’re far from a “superfood” for pups, and there are risks to consider—like high sugar content and potential stomach upset. Think of them as a rare treat, not a regular part of your dog’s diet.

What Are Goji Berries, Anyway?

Goji berries (also called wolfberries) are the bright red fruit of the Lycium barbarum plant, native to China and other parts of Asia. For centuries, they’ve been used in traditional medicine for their supposed health benefits, and in recent years, they’ve become a staple in smoothies, trail mixes, and “superfood” bowls.

Humans love them for their dense nutrient profile: vitamins A and C, antioxidants like zeaxanthin and lutein, fiber, and minerals like potassium. But here’s the catch: What’s great for humans isn’t always great for dogs. Let’s break down the pros and cons.

Potential Benefits of Goji Berries for Dogs

Goji berries do contain some nutrients that could benefit dogs, but it’s important to manage expectations. These benefits are mild and only apply when berries are fed in tiny quantities.

Antioxidants for Eye & Immune Health

Goji berries are rich in antioxidants, including:

• Vitamin A: Supports eye health by maintaining the retina and cornea. Deficiencies can lead to vision problems in dogs, so a tiny boost might help (though most commercial dog foods already include enough vitamin A).
• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system, helping fight off infections and reduce inflammation. Dogs can produce their own vitamin C, but extra (in small doses) may aid aging or sick pups.
• Zeaxanthin & Lutein: These antioxidants are linked to eye health in humans, protecting against age-related macular degeneration. While research on dogs is limited, they may support eye function, especially in senior dogs prone to vision decline.

Fiber to Support Digestion

Fiber is essential for a healthy gut, and goji berries contain a small amount (about 1.5g per 100g of fresh berries, or 13g per 100g of dried). Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, preventing constipation, and feeds beneficial gut bacteria. For dogs with occasional digestive sluggishness, a berry or two might offer mild support—but again, moderation is key (too much fiber can backfire, as we’ll discuss later).

Potassium for Heart & Muscle Function

Potassium is a mineral that helps regulate heart rate, muscle contractions, and fluid balance. A deficiency can lead to weakness or heart issues, but most dogs get enough potassium from their regular diet (think: meat, sweet potatoes, and bananas). Goji berries add a tiny amount (about 213mg per 100g fresh), so they’re not a replacement for balanced dog food—but they won’t hurt in small doses.

Risks of Feeding Goji Berries to Dogs

While goji berries aren’t toxic, they come with some notable risks that make them a less-than-ideal treat for most dogs.

High Sugar Content: A Slippery Slope

Goji berries are naturally sweet, and their sugar content adds up quickly—even in fresh form. According to the USDA, 100g of fresh goji berries contains about 13g of sugar, while dried goji berries (the kind you’ll find in stores) pack a whopping 34.6g of sugar per 100g.

Dogs don’t need added sugar in their diet. Excess sugar can lead to:

• Weight gain: Extra calories from sugar contribute to obesity, which raises the risk of diabetes, joint pain, and heart disease.
• Dental issues: Sugar feeds harmful bacteria in the mouth, leading to plaque, tartar, and cavities.
• Blood sugar spikes: For dogs with diabetes or insulin resistance, even a few dried berries could cause dangerous blood sugar fluctuations.

Stomach Upset: Too Much of a Good Thing

Dogs have sensitive digestive systems, and introducing new foods (especially in large amounts) can cause stomach upset. Goji berries are no exception. The fiber and sugar in goji berries can lead to:

• Diarrhea: Too much fiber draws water into the intestines, loosening stools.
• Vomiting: High sugar can irritate the stomach lining, triggering nausea.
• Gas: Fermentable fiber (like that in goji berries) can cause bloating or flatulence in dogs unused to it.

Choking Hazard: Small Berries, Big Risk for Small Dogs

Goji berries are small and round—about the size of a pea when fresh, or slightly smaller when dried. For small dogs (e.g., Chihuahuas, Yorkies) or brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs) with small airways, a single berry could pose a choking risk if swallowed whole. Even larger dogs might gulp them down without chewing, leading to blockages.

How Much Goji Berry Can Dogs Safely Eat? Serving Guidelines

If you decide to share goji berries with your dog, portion control is critical. These are treats, not meals, and should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories (the rest should come from a balanced dog food).

Here’s a general guide based on size:

Fresh vs. Dried Goji Berries: Which is Better?

Fresh goji berries are less concentrated in sugar and calories than dried ones, making them the safer choice. Dried berries are often treated with sulfites (to preserve color) or added sugars, which are even worse for dogs. If you must use dried, opt for unsweetened, sulfite-free varieties—and stick to the tiniest portions.

Healthier Alternatives to Goji Berries for Dogs

Goji berries aren’t the only fruit in the superfood bowl—and many alternatives are safer, lower in sugar, and more nutrient-dense for dogs. Here are our top picks:

Blueberries: The Gold Standard

Blueberries are a vet-favorite treat for good reason: They’re low in sugar (10g per 100g), high in antioxidants (like those in goji berries), and packed with fiber. They’re also small, easy to chew, and most dogs love their sweet-tart flavor. Bonus: Frozen blueberries make a refreshing summer treat!

Raspberries: Fiber-Packed & Low-Sugar

Raspberries are even lower in sugar than blueberries (5.4g per 100g) and higher in fiber (6.5g per 100g), making them great for digestion. They’re also rich in vitamin C and manganese, which supports bone health. Just avoid overfeeding—they contain small amounts of xylitol-like compounds, but only toxic in massive doses (so 1–2 for small dogs, 3–5 for large is safe).

Carrots: Crunchy & Nutrient-Dense

Carrots are a classic dog treat for a reason: They’re low in calories (35 cal per 100g), high in fiber and vitamin A (great for eyes!), and their crunch helps clean teeth. Raw or steamed, they’re safe for all dogs and make a satisfying, sugar-free snack.

FAQ: Your Goji Berry Questions Answered

Can puppies eat goji berries?

Puppies have developing digestive systems, so it’s best to avoid goji berries (or any new treats) until they’re at least 6 months old. If you do share, stick to 1 fresh berry (for small breeds) and monitor for diarrhea or vomiting. Always consult your vet first!

Are goji berries toxic to dogs?

No, goji berries are not toxic to dogs, according to the ASPCA’s toxic plant database. The risks are from sugar, stomach upset, or choking—not toxicity.

Can dogs eat goji berry supplements or smoothies?

Skip the supplements! Goji berry pills or powders often contain added ingredients (like vitamins, sweeteners, or herbs) that could be harmful to dogs. As for smoothies? They’re usually loaded with other sugars (e.g., honey, fruit juice) or dairy (which many dogs are lactose-intolerant to). Stick to plain, fresh berries if you must share.

My dog ate a handful of goji berries—should I panic?

Probably not, but monitor them closely. If they ate dried berries, watch for diarrhea, vomiting, or hyperactivity (from sugar). If they’re a small dog or show signs of choking, contact your vet immediately.

Conclusion: Moderation is Key—Prioritize Your Pup’s Health

Goji berries aren’t toxic to dogs, and they offer a few minor benefits, but they’re far from a must-have treat. The risks—sugar overload, stomach upset, and choking—often outweigh the perks, especially when there are safer alternatives like blueberries or carrots.

If you do share goji berries with your dog, keep portions tiny, opt for fresh over dried, and never make them a regular habit. And as always, if you’re unsure whether a food is safe, consult your vet—they know your pup’s unique needs best.

At the end of the day, the best treat for your dog is your love (and maybe a belly rub). But if you’re craving a snack to share, stick to the tried-and-true options—your pup’s health (and stomach) will thank you!

References

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. aspca.org
• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). FoodData Central: Goji Berries, Raw and Goji Berries, Dried. fdc.nal.usda.gov
• PetMD. Fruits and Veggies Dogs Can and Can’t Eat. petmd.com
• VCA Hospitals. Dietary Fiber for Dogs. vcahospitals.com