Cranberries
Last updated: February 10, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Cranberries Berries known for urinary tract health support.
What It Is
Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) are tart berries valued in dog food for urinary tract health benefits, antioxidants, and vitamins. Fresh cranberries contain approximately 87% moisture, 12g carbohydrate, minimal protein/fat, and 5g fiber per 100g. Cranberries are rich in proanthocyanidins (PACs)—unique antioxidant compounds that prevent bacteria (particularly E. coli) from adhering to urinary tract walls, potentially reducing UTI risk. They provide vitamin C, manganese, and various beneficial plant compounds. Cranberries are tart, so dried sweetened cranberries are common in treats, though unsweetened dried cranberries are preferable in food. In small amounts, cranberries provide legitimate health benefits.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. blueberries: Both are berries with antioxidants and vitamins. Cranberries have unique PACs for urinary health; blueberries have anthocyanins for cognitive/antioxidant benefits. Cranberries are tart; blueberries are sweet. Both are nutritious—cranberries for urinary support, blueberries for antioxidants.
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Cranberries appear in dog food for urinary tract health support—PACs help prevent UTIs. They provide antioxidants and vitamins. Marketing appeal—'with cranberries' suggests health benefits and premium quality. While amounts in kibble are small, cranberries do provide measurable benefits unlike purely cosmetic additives.
Nutritional Profile
Quality Considerations
When evaluating cranberries in dog products, it's important to understand antioxidant content, phytonutrients, and whole food nutrition. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Beneficial for urinary tract health and antioxidant support.
Potential Concerns
Cranberries are very safe in moderate amounts. Excessive amounts could cause digestive upset or increased oxalate (kidney stone concern in predisposed dogs), but normal food amounts are safe. Avoid sweetened dried cranberries with excessive sugar. Otherwise minimal concerns.
Contraindications
- Dogs prone to calcium oxalate kidney stones should have oxalate-containing foods monitored
Quality ingredient for urinary health and antioxidants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cranberries good for dogs?
Yes, cranberries are beneficial for dogs, particularly for urinary tract health. Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins (PACs) that prevent bacteria from adhering to urinary tract walls, potentially reducing UTI risk. They provide vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Small amounts in dog food provide legitimate health benefits. Veterinarians sometimes recommend cranberry supplements for dogs with recurrent UTIs. Use unsweetened cranberries; avoid products with excessive sugar. Safe and beneficial in moderation.
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