Broccoli is a member of the cabbage family with a large flowering head and a stalk that most of us humans love to eat. It is one of the favorite vegetables for my young kids. It is a good diet aid for humans as it is rich in good carb and fiber. But how about your dog? Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
Your dogs can eat broccoli as long as there are no seasonings and oil in it, and it is given in small quantities. If given too much, it can cause gastric irritation, diarrhea, and bloating. Remember to feed them according to their size. Small dogs like Chihuahuas, Maltese, and Pomeranians will need much smaller portions than a Labrador Retriever.
Is this green plant good for your dog to eat? Do they also receive the same amount of nutrients that humans get? Don’t worry! Here are some of the answers to your questions.
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Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
Dogs are omnivores. So they must eat vegetables as part of their healthy diet. So the simplest answer is, yes. Dogs can eat broccoli.
Trivia
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that has a reputation for causing gas. In simple words, it can make your dog fart
Broccoli is considered one of the safest vegetables your dog can eat. It is nutritious and has a lot of benefits. Just consider giving the right portion to your dog.
How Much Broccoli Should Your Dog Eat?
As a pet owner, take note that too much can be harmful. So, how much should they intake? Remember that 5% of broccoli in their normal food intake is the safest and it should not exceed 10%. Anything more than 25% can be toxic and may lead to serious problems.
Also, take note that the 10% rule differs, depending on the size of the dog. Furthermore, every dog is different. They may react differently to broccoli. Some may react strongly, some may not. So it is better to always monitor them.
And remember that moderation in any food is the key.
Dogs are cute animals that we consider as family members. So, it is better to know if what we are feeding them is healthy and safe.
Pros And Cons On Feeding Broccoli To Your Dog
Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients. But we all know that balance is important in life, right? Broccoli may be able to provide a lot of nutrition to both you and your dog, but there are also some downsides to it.
Pros
- Rich in fiber: which is good for intestinal and digestive health
- Low-fat: which is good for your dog’s healthy diet
- Antioxidants: Lessen the appearance of chronic diseases. It scavenges for free radicals from the body cells and prevents or reduces the damage caused by oxidation.
- Vitamin C: It boosts the immune system of your dog as it provides anti-inflammatory properties. This is produced naturally in a dog’s body, but it decreases as they grow older.
- Minerals: It has magnesium, sodium, chromium potassium, and several others that help to strengthen your dog’s immune and nervous systems.
Broccoli has a lot of positive benefits. On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages and precautions that you should consider as a pet owner.[Source]
Cons
- Obstruction of blockages in the esophagus: This is especially true for small dogs. Cutting broccoli into bite-size pieces can help you measure the amount of broccoli your dog consumes. And if you are feeding them broccoli for the first time, small pieces can help you monitor their reaction. In this way, you will know if you can continue feeding them.
- Choking hazard: Broccoli Stalks are fibrous. Given in big portions, it will become a big problem especially for small dogs. To avoid choking, it is better to serve them steamed.
- isothiocyanates: Broccoli florets have isothiocyanates which can cause gastric irritation, either mild or severe, in certain dog breeds. If taken in significant amounts, worse cases lead to death.
Dogs don’t need large quantities of fruits and vegetables to lead a healthy life, unlike humans. So, always be careful in serving broccoli to them. It is much better if you, as a pet owner, watch them as they eat.
[Related Article: Can Dogs Eat Carrots Like Bugs Bunny?]
When Should You Feed Your Dog Broccoli?
Broccoli is best to be served as a reward instead of as part of their daily food. As you train them, you can give it to them as a reward. It is a good snack for dogs. In this way, overdosing can be minimized.
Different methods To feed Your Dog With Broccoli
- Serve it raw: Just cut it into small pieces and avoid excessive amounts to keep them safe.
- Steamed, which is best to reduce choking. Steaming is the best way to serve broccoli. As you cut it in small chunks, steaming makes the broccoli soft, which is better for dogs. It is easier for them to eat even the stalks.
- Sautéed: To have more taste. Do not add an excessive amount of oil.
And always REMEMBER!
Chop it into small pieces.
Before we move forward, remember that broccoli has different parts and ways to be eaten. So the question is,
Can My Dog Eat Cooked Broccoli?
Definitely. Cooked broccoli is safe for your dog and there will be less chance for choking hazards. It is softer and easier to eat if you cook it and cut it into small pieces. Just make sure that there are no added fats or seasonings as they may upset your dog’s stomach.
How About Frozen Broccoli?
It is also fine to serve frozen broccoli. But keep in mind that you still need to chop it before feeding your dog.
“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”
Roger Caras
Is it Alright To Feed Your Dog With Broccoli Stalks?
Yes. You can feed them with the stalks. Some dogs love this part as it is crunchy. However, it is better to chop it down into small pieces and watch them as they munch. They can choke. So, just give them small amounts.
Also, some older dogs may find it difficult to chew. So much better to be attentive if you are giving them this part.
There are times that you, as a pet owner, may feel overwhelmed and would not know what to do if suddenly your dog consumes too much broccoli. Do not panic!
Here are the signs that your dog is experiencing broccoli overdose;
- Coma
- Seizures
- Sudden disorientation
- Unhealthy gums
- Eyes turning yellow
- Stops eating
- Hyperactive
- Rolling its body
- Being lethargic
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Keep in mind that if your dog consumes too much broccoli, provide them with lots of clean water and monitor them for a day. If the symptoms get worse, bring them to a vet.
Additionally, to be sure that your dog is in the right shape to take in non-toxic human food, like broccoli, consult your vet first. It is better to have a heads-up for this matter before you let your dog go into this diet.
[Related Article: Can Dogs Eat Yogurt? What Are The Types Of Yogurt To Avoid?]
Summary
- Dogs can eat broccoli, either cooked or raw, as long as there are no seasonings and oil added.
- Broccoli is rich in nutrients that are good for a dog’s healthy diet.
- Cut them into small pieces before feeding your dog.
- It is best given as a snack or reward.
- Moderation is the key to any food they eat.
Be a responsible dog owner. Being attentive is the key to keeping your fur buddy beside you for a long time.
