Moving at the end of this month has been exhausting. While Buddy and I are doing our best to settle into our new home, some thoughtful friends sent over gifts and a few Loblaws gift cards. With weather portals forecasting extreme cold and blizzards in the GTA this weekend, I rushed to Loblaws to stock up on essentials. Stepping inside from the -26°C biting cold felt like an instant switch to spring.
In the produce section, I spotted my all-time favorite—strawberries—and at just $3 a box, I didn't hesitate to toss two into my cart. Outside, the snow had already started falling and the temperature was dropping fast. Once I got back home, I gave them a quick wash and took a bite—not bad at all! Of course, it didn't take long for Buddy to show up with his usual antics, staring at the berries with those 'Can I have some?' eyes. That’s when I decided to do some digging: are these sweet winter treats actually safe for our furry companions?
The short answer is yes!
Not only are they safe, but strawberries are also a powerhouse of nutrients for dogs. Here’s why I felt good about sharing a few with Buddy:
Natural Whitening: Strawberries contain malic acid, an enzyme that actually helps whiten your dog's teeth naturally.
Immune Boost: They are packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, which are great for Buddy’s immune system, especially during these harsh Toronto winters.
Hydration & Fiber: With high water content and plenty of fiber, they are a healthy alternative to processed treats.
⚠️ A Few "Buddy-Tested" Safety Rules
Even though they are healthy, you can't just toss a whole box to your dog. Especially with these imported winter berries, I followed a few steps:
The Great Wash: Since these traveled all the way from Mexico, they might have pesticide residue. I gave them an extra thorough rinse in cold water.
Remove the Greenery: I always cut off the leaves and the tough green tops (stems). They aren't toxic, but they can be hard for a dog to digest and might cause an upset stomach.
Bite-Sized Pieces: For a dog like Buddy, I usually slice them up or mash them. This prevents any choking risk and makes it easier for him to enjoy the flavor.
Watch the Sugar: Strawberries contain natural sugar. I only gave Buddy two medium-sized berries. Too many can lead to a runny tummy!
Watching Buddy happily munch on his little strawberry slices made the blizzard outside feel a million miles away. It’s the small moments like this—a warm house, a sweet treat, and a happy dog—that make a new place finally feel like home.
What’s your dog’s favorite winter snack? Let me know in the comments below!