When it’s prepared correctly, it’s safe for humans in small quantities. When not prepared correctly, it can cause some minor issues for people.
However, these issues are exponentially more severe when it comes to dogs. Extreme caution should be used when giving your dog elderberry.
When in doubt, be sure to consult with your veterinarian to make sure that you’re giving your dog a food that is okay to eat.
Will elderberry hurt dogs? Be extremely careful when giving a dog elderberry. While it is safe in small amounts (1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight) if it has been prepared correctly, it is not safe if it has not been prepared properly. Elderberry poisoning effects could range from nausea to seizures and coma.
Of course, you only want what is best for your dog, and while it is a noble venture to feed your dog healthy foods and supplements, giving the wrong foods or foods in the wrong form can have negative consequences.
In the following, you’ll learn what is and is not safe concerning elderberries and your dog.
Causes of Elderberry Poisoning in Dogs
Amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside found in bitter almonds, stone fruits, and apple seeds, is the poison generated by elderberry plants. Hydrogen cyanide is formed when amygdalin degrades in the digestive system.
Hydrogen cyanide is hazardous to practically all animal species at a concentration of two milligrams per kilogram of body weight. The average time it takes to die from cyanide poisoning is less than an hour after ingesting the toxin.
A chewable, gummy supplement made from the juice or extract of elderberries is elderberry gummies (Sambucus nigra).
Products claiming to enhance the immune system and treat cold and flu symptoms naturally include elderberries as a common component.
As the most popular elderberry supplements, candies and syrups benefit from the berries’ inherent sweetness and delicious flavor.
Supplements in the form of gummies are ideal for youngsters who are unable or unwilling to eat syrups or take tablets.
In addition to children, adults who have difficulty swallowing pills can benefit from them, since they can assist minimize the amount of tablets needed for individuals who take various prescriptions or supplements.
Remember that elderberry gummies may include other substances. ‘ Preservatives and thickeners were also added, as well as extra sugar, to keep them shelf-stable.
Pectin, a form of fruit fiber that is often used to thicken preserves like jellies and jams, is commonly used to thicken elderberry candies.
Vitamin C, Echinacea, and Zinc are just a few of the minerals and plant extracts included in many elderberry candy.
Children and adults alike take elderberry gummies. Elderberry juice or extract is often paired with sugar and preservatives in many products.
What are side effects of elderberry?
Common side effects of Elderberry include:
Can Dogs Have Elderberry Tea?
As long as elderberry tea is made with the properly prepared berries of the elderberry plant, it should be safe for your dog to drink.
If there is any other part of the elderberry plant included in the tea, such as leaves, flowers, roots, or stems, then it is not safe for your dog.
Additionally, the berries must be simmered for at least 45 minutes to remove the glycoside from them in order for the tea to be safe for your dog to drink. When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian.
FAQ
Can dogs eat elderberry gummy?
Is elderberry supplement toxic to dogs?
Elderberry foliage and berries contain the toxin cyanogenic glycoside, but the risk for developing cyanide poisoning (clinical signs: rapid onset respiratory distress, seizure, death) following ingestion of elderberry is very low for most species including dog and cat.
How much elderberry can I give my dog?
Is elderberry safe for animals?