What vegetables can dogs eat? I’m certain that, at some point or another, you’ve asked yourself this question.
Well, fruits and veggies can be a great snack or treat for your dog, and like us humans, dogs need a diet that’s rich in vitamins and minerals from different sources.
But, are all veggies good for dogs to eat?
That’s why, as a vet, I will answer the most common questions about what veggie dogs can and can’t eat.
Let’s get into it.
What Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?
Most dog parents consider dogs as part of their family, so wouldn’t be nice to feed them as family.
But, there are lots of veggies that might be beneficial for dogs but totally harmful for our four-legged friends.
That’s why, in the next section, I will answer questions that you probably have asked about what vegetables can dogs eat.
Can Dogs Eat Carrots?
Yes, dogs can eat carrots. Carrots are a great source of vitamin A, vitamin k, and potassium that aid in heart and nerve function. Plus, chewing on this yummy low-calorie veggie can be a great snack and treat for your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?
No, dogs can’t eat tomatoes. While the red part is completely safe for dogs, the green part isn’t and it contains a toxic called solanine that causes confusion, lethargy, and vomiting. And even though dogs will have to eat lots of green parts to get sick, it’s always best to avoid it. It’s better safe than sorry.
Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
Yes, dogs can eat broccoli. It’s high in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and is very low in fat. It’s a great veggie for dogs, just make sure to cut it into smaller pieces so it won’t get stuck in your dog’s throat and end up harming it.
However, and like many cruciferous veggies such as cabbage, kale, and cauliflower, the broccoli florets contain isothiocyanate which can be harmful to dogs, so it’s always best to serve in moderation.
Can Dogs Eat Cucumbers?
Yes, cucumbers are totally safe. According to the American Kennel Club, these yummy veggies are rich in antioxidants which is a vital component for a healthy immune system.
It’s also high in vitamins K, C, and B1 along with other vitamins while at the same time it’s low in calories which makes it a great snack for dogs that want to maintain a healthy weight.
Can Dogs Eat Potatoes?
Yes, dogs can eat potatoes. Potatoes are totally safe for dogs to eat as long as they are well cooked. This yummy veggie is high in solanine that’s toxic for dogs so it’s always best to avoid feeding your dog raw potatoes. Also, by cooked, I mean boiled, steamed, or baked, avoid feeding fried potatoes to your dog as they are high in fat.
Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, dogs can eat sweet potatoes. This veggie is rich in fiber that supports a healthy digestive system. Also, it’s high in vitamins B6 and C, along with antioxidants that promote a healthy immune system.
Feeding raw sweet potatoes isn’t the best way to serve this nutrient rich veggie to your dog, that’s why I always recommend boiling or steaming it for you and for your dog’s safety.
However, it’s rich in sugar which means that too much of it can cause weight gain. So, unless you want your dog to gain some weight, it’s best that you limit its consumption of it.
Can Dogs Eat Cauliflower?
Yes, dogs can eat cauliflower. Like broccoli, cauliflower is high in vitamins and minerals and it makes a great treat for dogs, especially puppies.
My only recommendation is that you cut it into smaller pieces so your dog doesn’t end up choking on it.
How to Prepare Veggies for Your Dog
Feeding your dog raw veggies is great, that way you conserve all the vitamins and the mineral so that your dog benefits from them.
However, if, for some reason, that’s not an option for you, you should prepare the veggies for your dog without them losing some of their nutritional value.
That’s why I will share with you the healthiest preparation techniques so that you can prepare veggies the right way for your dog.
- Boiling: the most common way of preparing veggies for dogs, it’s great as it preserves all the nutrients of the food, and it moisturizes which is a good bonus.
- Steaming: steaming is my favorite way of cooking veggies for dogs, it preserves the color, the flavor, and more importantly the nutrients that the veggie contains which help your dog get the best out of what he eats.
- Blanching: if you don’t know what blanching is, it’s basically quickly submerging the vegetables in hot water and then cold water, that way you preserve the color and flavor, and cleanse the surface at the same time which, in my opinion, is great.
Our Verdict
Even though it might be safe for dogs to eat some veggies, it’s always best to check on your dog and see how he reacts to it, he might have a condition or a health issue that you are not aware of. And always, always, start with smaller portions.
Also, it’s always best to cut any veggie into smaller pieces so it won’t end up choking your dog or causing digestion problems.
And, before you add any vegetable to your dog’s diet, please consult a vet.
