I have noticed lots of Blackberries in the back garden which are obviously good for us in pies bla bla. I noticed today lots of Elderberries as well are ripe but high up. Are these fruits acceptable to dogs??? I can't find definate answers with regards to Elderberries. Thanks
Mine have eaten Blackberries and my last dogs used to pick their own. I don't know about Elderberries.
The dogs trust site says elderberries cause vomiting and diarrhoea. https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/help-advice/factsheets-downloads/factsheetpoisonoussubstances09.pdf Blackberries are definitely ok though.
The berries are edible when ripe (although I wouldn't let my dogs eat them) but dogs shouldn't eat the rest of the plant as it is toxic.
Elderberries seem like a no no then. I thought I'd make some wine for the time with the Elderberries but found out it takes a year!!!
Holly picks her own blackberries. Autumn walks take a lot longer because she keeps stopping to eat every fresh berry within reach. I can confirm that blackberries are OK.
You make a sugar syrup and infuse the freshly picked (on a sunny day ideally) and rinsed flower heads in the syrup for 24 hrs or so. Usually add a little pared lemon zest. Supposed to also add citric acid as a preservative but can be a pain to get - pharmacy I think - druggies use it so not the kind of thing you can pick up in a supermarket.
