Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?

Feeding your dog a nutritious diet is important for their health and wellness. Even though you feed your dog food that is specifically made for them, you may be wondering if vegetables from your own plate are safe and recommended.

If you’re thinking of tossing your pet some greens, we’re answering the question: “Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?”

In short, yes they can, but in limited quantities. In this article, we’ll discuss when it is and isn’t safe to feed your dog broccoli.

Let’s dig in!

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?

Broccoli is a food that is considered safe for dogs. They can ingest this vegetable raw only, so do not add any additional seasonings, spices or oils.

According to the American Kennel Club, broccoli is safe to give to dogs, but in limited quantities. Broccoli contains isothiocyanates which can upset your dog’s stomach if they consume too much. So, the best thing to do is to give your dog a small amount first in order to see how they react.

Broccoli Has Benefits For Your Dog

Broccoli is a nutritious food for both humans and dogs. It has Vitamin K and Calcium, which are both nutrients that help maintain strong healthy bones. Additionally, broccoli contains phosphorus, zinc and vitamins A and C.

While your dog doesn’t necessarily need broccoli in order to maintain a healthy diet, it can be an added benefit to their nutrition with its high vitamin and fiber content. Again, as long as you feed it to your dog without added oils and seasonings, it is completely safe.

Potential Issues With Feeding Your Dog Broccoli

While broccoli is considered safe for most dogs, there are issues that can arise if you feed them too much of this vegetable. As mentioned above, broccoli contains isothiocyanates which can cause stomach irritation in dogs. This can be mild to severe.

According to the American Kennel Club, “Broccoli is considered safe in dogs if the total amount ingested is less than 10 percent of their daily intake; more than 25 percent is considered toxic.”

Therefore, you should only give your dog a small amount of broccoli. And, it’s best to not feed it to them every single day.

The first time you give your dog broccoli, make the portion incredibly small and monitor their gastric symptoms for any irritation or upset. Be sure to also cut up the broccoli into small pieces to avoid any potential choking issues.

Speak To Your Vet About Your Dog Eating Broccoli

As you can see, feeding your dog broccoli is considered safe in small qualities. As long as you monitor your dog’s reaction, they can safely consume this vegetable.

As always, if you’re concerned about feeding your dog a new type of food, it’s best to consult your veterinarian for their advice and guidance. Broccoli is safe for dogs and can be a part of a well rounded, nutritious diet.