Gooseberries have been gaining popularity recently in the US. They can be seen in farmers markets and on shelves in grocery stores more and more often. They have a soft fuzz and are quite tasty. If you come across some of these little beauties, can you offer some to your pup?

No. Gooseberries should not be eaten by dogs as they are toxic. These berries contain glyoxylic acid which causes kidney stones in dogs. Additionally parts of the gooseberry simply cannot be digested by dogs. The result can be an allergic reaction that mimics food poisoning in humans. 

While consumption of gooseberries is not fatal it is important to know that the side effects from eating them do not always immediately present themselves. There are long term gastrointestinal issues that can occur. If you believe your dog has eaten gooseberries, wash your pup’s mouth out with water and contact a vet immediately.

To ensure your pet will live a long and healthy life, it is always a good idea to invest in pet health insurance. Preparing for the unexpected guarantees money is never an issue in keeping you pup healthy.