We were all told as children to eat our vegetables; that they would make us healthy. You might have vivid memories, as I do, of sitting at the table staring at a plate full of broccoli while your brothers and sisters were allowed to watch TV because they ate theirs.
There was a good reason your parents forced you to eat veggies:
They are nutritious!
As for dogs, we’ve been over the fact that animal-based protein is the most important thing they need. Vegetables aren’t as high on the list of essential foods for dogs as they are for humans.
In fact, some recommend that veggies should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s diet, so don’t get too crazy with it.
However, they do contain lots of vitamins and minerals that have been shown to greatly benefit dogs.
Vegetables are low calorie snacks that are good sources of fiber. Just like in humans, fiber helps the digestive process in dogs. And also just like us, too much of a certain vegetable may cause bloating and gas.
Your dog might emit some seemingly toxic fumes after eating certain vegetables.
While it might be handy to have another living thing you can plausibly blame your own foul farts on, bad gas in dogs is not to be taken too lightly.
If this happens after giving him vegetables, you either gave him too much or perhaps he has some trouble digesting that particular vegetable.
Keep a close eye on his poo as well.
If he has diarrhea after given only a small amount of a certain vegetable, my advice would be to nix that veggie altogether.
Some popular veggies with dogs are carrots, broccoli, and pumpkin.
Some unsafe vegetables are onions and raw potatoes.
Here is a list of safe versus harmful vegetables for dogs.
What Vegetables are Toxic to Dogs?
Never feed your dog these vegetables.
1. Onions
Dogs have been known to die from eating large quantities of onions. NEVER feed your dog onions.
Onions contain a toxin known as thiosulphate that causes the oxidation of hemoglobin in your dog’s red blood cells.
This causes small clumps to form (known as Heinz bodies) that attach to the cells.
This dramatically reduces the red blood cell’s lifespan and your dog will become anemic.
If too much is ingested, your dog may need a blood transfusion.
2. Avocadoes
Don’t feed your dog avocado and never let them near an avocado pit.
Avocados contain a chemical called persin that is extremely toxic to birds, horses, and cattle.
The chemical is rarely dangerous for dogs, although some might be sensitive to it.
The avocado pit is the largest danger, as it can cause intestinal blockage.
3. Raw Potatoes
Avoid feeding raw potatoes to dogs.
Potatoes are not toxic to dogs when they are plain and cooked. However, raw potatoes may have high levels of solanine, which can cause gastrointestinal and neurological problems if eaten.
Never feed your dog a green potato and always cut the eyes out, as these things indicate high levels of solanine.
You can feed your dog cooked potatoes with no seasonings, but avoid feeding them raw potatoes.
Don’t Feed Your Dog These Vegetables
1. Unripe or Green Tomatoes
Red, ripe tomatoes are ok, but avoid unripe or green tomatoes.
Tomatoes should only be given in moderation and you should never give your dog an unripe tomato.
Tomatoes can help prevent cancer and also contain hefty amounts of vitamin C.
Green or unripe tomatoes contain a toxin known as alpha-tomatine which can be harmful for your dog’s heart. The chemical is still present in ripe tomatoes, but there isn’t much. In green tomatoes, the levels are much higher.
2. Corn
Corn is not recommended for dogs.
Corn is not recommended for dogs because it doesn’t provide much (if any) nutritional value to your dog.
Corn is a bit controversial, but what it comes down to is your dog doesn’t really get a huge benefit from consuming corn.
Never give your dog a corn cob.
You should never give your dog corn on the cob because they might break apart the cob and swallow huge pieces of it. They could most definitely cause an intestinal blockage.
Lots of dog food companies include corn as a filler in their kibble anyway, so they don’t need more of the stuff. Most of what corn contains comes out as waste anyway (just take a look at the dinosaur poop in your backyard).
3. Wild Mushrooms
Store-bought mushrooms are mostly ok, but never feed your dog wild mushrooms.
Do not feed your dog wild mushrooms. Store bought mushrooms can be eaten by dogs.
Wild mushrooms can be extremely dangerous and have been known to kill humans.
4. Pickles
Pickles are not recommended for dogs.
Dogs can technically eat pickles, but the high sodium content and the fact that pickles are fermented make them a little tough on your dog’s stomach.
They don’t have really any good nutrients for your dog. Rarely feed your dog pickles. Feed them bit of unpickled cucumber instead!
5. Jalapenos
Jalapenos aren’t toxic to dogs, but don’t feed them to your dog.
Please never feed your dog jalapenos. Jalapenos aren’t toxic to dogs, but their system is not meant for spicy food.
A sudden addition of a very spicy jalapeno to a system that’s used to bland kibble will definitely be shocking. If they eat jalapenos, don’t be surprised if they vomit or have diarrhea, or both.
You could end up with a messy situation.
6. Yucca
Dogs can eat yucca, but very small amounts.
Given in small doses, yucca is used for anti-inflammatory, but too much can poison your dog. If you’re considering feeding your dog yucca, consult your veterinarian first.
The main compounds in yucca that cause controversy are saponins. Saponins can actually poison your dog and lead to vomiting and diarrhea if they ingest too much.
However, given in small doses, yucca is used for these saponins because they are anti-inflammatory. Dogs with arthritis can feel relief after consuming yucca root.
Dog Friendly Vegetables
1. Carrots
Carrots are an awesome treat for dogs. In fact, many people supplement carrots for dog treats.
We highly recommend carrots, and your dog can definitely eat them.
Carrots contain high amounts of fiber, beta carotene, and the vitamins A, C, D, E, K, B1, and B6.
Consuming carrots can help eyesight, boost the immune system, lead to a healthy coat, and even help strengthen your dog’s teeth.
Many people supplement carrots for dog treats. As always, human foods should be given to dogs in moderation.
2. Broccoli
Dogs can eat broccoli, but the stems are better for them than is the head (because of the toxins in the head of the veggie).
Broccoli contains lots of fiber and vitamin C.
The head of broccoli has a toxic compound that can irritate your dogs stomach, so it’s recommended that you feed them the stems and rarely feed them broccoli heads. Only give your dog a small amount.
Broccoli might also give your dog some gas and diarrhea.
3. Celery
Dogs can eat celery, but it should be prepared beforehand, like so:
Remove all strings and cut into smaller pieces.
Celery has lots of antioxidants, fiber, calcium, amino acids, iron, potassium, Vitamin A, vitamin B, and Vitamin C.
Celery can help dogs with arthritis and might even help prevent cancer. Celery might also help temporarily reduce bad breath and lower blood pressure.
Remove the celery ‘strings’ as they might cause some issues on their way out. Also, chop it up to reduce the risk of intestinal blockages.
4. Cooked Potatoes
You can feed your dog cooked potatoes with no seasonings, but avoid feeding them raw potatoes (see toxic section above).
Potatoes are not toxic to dogs when they are plain and cooked.
However, raw potatoes may have high levels of solanine, which can cause gastrointestinal and neurological problems if eaten.
Never feed your dog a green potato and always cut the eyes out, as these things indicate high levels of solanine.
5. Sweet Potatoes
Dogs can eat sweet potatoes, but only as an occasional treat.
Sweet potatoes contain high levels or beta carotene, fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, antioxidants, and minerals. These nutrients help digestion and even aid in the prevention of cancer.
Too many sweet potatoes may lead to obesity, as yams contain lots of carbohydrates and natural sugars.
6. Yams
Dogs can eat yams, but limit consumption.
Yams contain high levels or beta carotene, fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, antioxidants, and minerals. These nutrients help digestion and even aid in the prevention of cancer.
Too many yams may lead to obesity, as yams contain lots of carbohydrates and natural sugars.
7. Cucumbers
Cucumbers are great for your dog and we recommend them as a substitute for dog treats.
Cucumbers are an excellent source of phytochemicals, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. Eating a cucumber might help temporarily cure a dog’s bad breath, as the phytochemicals actively kill bacteria that cause smelliness.
Cucumbers also have a compound called sterols that help lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure. There are no toxic compounds in cucumber and are definitely safe for your dog to eat.
8. Asparagus
You can give your dog asparagus in moderation.
Asparagus contains fiber, zinc, iron, and essential vitamins. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in cancer prevention.
Dogs can eat asparagus but their poo may turn green and their urine might become a bit foul smelling. That’s normal; just feed your dog asparagus in moderation.
9. Spinach
Dogs can eat spinach but too much might cause gastric upset.
Spinach has Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B, Vitamin K, beta carotene, and fiber. These can help your dog’s digestions and promote healthy bones and tissues.
Spinach also has a lot of folate and iron and can be used to help treat anemia. Spinach is also good for your dog’s eyes. Spinach does have some oxalin which has the potential to block the absorption of calcium, but it’s a negligible amount.
10. Green Beans
Dogs can eat green beans, but they should be cooked.
Cooked beans can be an excellent source of protein and fiber. However, beans should not replace the meat-based protein in your dog’s diet.
Certain beans can provide an extra boost to your dog’s immune system as well. Avoid feeding your dog canned beans because they contain lots of preservatives. Dogs cannot handle preservatives like we can.
11. Lettuce
Dogs can eat lettuce, but they won’t get much nutritional value from it.
Lettuce doesn’t contain much in the way of nutrients. Lettuce is actually mostly water with a little fiber.
A little lettuce might help with constipation, but you’re better off feeding them another veggie with more nutritional value (like cucumbers).
12. Zucchini
Dogs can eat zucchini, and we highly recommend it as a treat.
Zucchini is low in calories and is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, some B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and fiber. It can be anti-inflammatory and might aid in the prevention of cancer.
Its abundance of vitamins helps maintain healthy skin and a healthy coat. It’s also good for overall eye health.
13. Kale
Dogs can eat kale, but only in moderation.
Kale contains Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K. It also has lots of minerals like copper, potassium, and iron. The antioxidants in kale help prevent certain forms of cancer.
Kale also contains lutein which helps maintain eye health. Kale also contains oxalates that may cause vomiting and might prevent your dog from properly absorbing calcium, but small amounts won’t affect them.
14. Beets
Dogs can eat beets, in fact we might recommend it, but make sure they are fresh and not canned.
Beets contain lots of healthy antioxidants as well as fiber, folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium. Beets can aid in healthy tissue growth and can help maintain a healthy heart.
Canned anything contains preservatives that dogs don’t handle well. Eating too many beets has the potential of causing diarrhea.
15. Squash
Dogs can eat squash, but make sure it’s cooked and not seasoned with the seeds removed.
Squash contains high levels of Vitamin A which can help maintain good eyesight. It’s rich in Vitamin C so it also helps to boost your dog’s immune system. The fiber within squash helps dogs suffering from constipation as well.
It’s recommended that you cook the squash before feeding it to your dog so it’s easier to digest. Raw squash is too hard and might not be easily digestible.
16. Edamame
Dogs can eat edamame on occasion, but not often.
Edamame contains a large amount of fiber, so it’s likely to give your dog gas. Be sure to take the seeds out of the pod before giving edamame to your dog, as they might have trouble digesting an entire pod.
Also be sure they are not seasoned.
If your dog gets into edamame, it’s not toxic. They might just experience some bloating and bad gas.
17. Eggplant
Dogs can eat eggplants, but may be allergic or react badly to the oxalates within them.
Eggplants provide iron, calcium and fiber. Eggplants might help with weight loss as it’s low in fat and calories. It might also be beneficial in lowering cholesterol.
Eggplant does contain oxalates, which are compounds that can cause nausea, vomiting, and seizures. Dogs with kidney disease should not eat eggplant because of these oxalates. Prepare it without added flavoring or seasonings, and start with a small amount.
18. Black Beans
Dogs can eat black beans, but they should be cooked.
Cooked beans can be an excellent source of protein and fiber. However, beans should not replace the meat-based protein in your dog’s diet. Certain beans can provide an extra boost to your dog’s immune system as well.
Avoid feeding your dog canned beans because they contain lots of preservatives. Dogs cannot handle preservatives like we can.
19. Radishes
Dogs can eat radishes, but only as an occasional treat.
Radishes contain protein, fiber, and vitamin C. The protein within radishes does not compare to the protein dogs get from meat, so be sure your dog is getting most of its protein from animals.
Also, the fiber can aid in digestion, and the rough texture of radishes can help remove plaque from your dog’s teeth.
20. Olives
You can feed your dogs olives, but rarely.
Olives are not toxic to dogs, but pickled and canned varieties are high in sodium and should be avoided.
Olives are also high in fat, and the addition of too much fat to your dog’s diet can cause pancreatitis.
Never give your dog a handful of olives. One or two is more than enough.
21. Red, Yellow, and Green Bell Peppers
Dogs can eat bell peppers as an occasional treat.
Bell peppers contain high amounts of Vitamin C and Vitamin A. Bell peppers are good for overall eye health and might even lower the risk of arthritis.
They can be hard for your dog to digest, so cut them into small pieces or puree, steam, or boil them.
22. Seaweed
You can feed your dog seaweed, but don’t feed them too much as it can cause some gastric upset.
Seaweed comes in many varieties and contains lots of minerals, vitamins, and carbohydrates. Some forms of seaweed contain protein, beta carotene, iron, and fatty acids.
All of these nutrients may help skin and coat condition and increase energy levels. They also can boost the immune system and perhaps even help prevent cancer. Some suggest that seaweed can even help dogs with food allergies.
23. Okra
Dogs can eat okra, but in moderation.
Okra has lots of great nutrients such as fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium. Okra can help in the prevention of cancer.
Too much okra can lead to gas and diarrhea. If you want to feed your dog okra, give them raw, steamed, or boiled okra.
24. Lentils
Dogs can eat lentils because they are not toxic.
Lentils primarily contain protein, iron, and fiber. While dogs need protein, they need animal-based protein above all else.
Lentils might cause some dogs some severe gastric upset, so only feed your dog a small amount to begin with. Dogs are probably getting everything lentils provide from their normal diet, so lentils are not necessary.
25. Jicama
Your dog can eat jicama, but only the root is edible – the leaves, stems, and seeds are actually toxic to your dog.
Jicama is high in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, as well as calcium and phosphorus.
Jicama root is also high in fiber. Jicama can help boost your dog’s immune system and is actually found as an ingredient in some dog foods.
26. Artichokes
You can feed your dogs artichokes, both cooked and raw.
Artichokes are packed with goodies.
They contain antioxidants, potassium, niacin, and lots of vitamins. They have been known to help dogs suffering from irritable bowels and stomachs, and they do help with flatulence.
Artichokes can aid in the prevention of canine cancer and other illnesses. The boost to the immune system can also help prevent heart problems and premature aging.
Be sure to prepare artichokes well so that there is no risk of any part of the veggie getting lodged in their intestines.
27. Lima Beans, Kidney Beans, and Navy Beans
Dogs can eat lima, kidney, and navy beans, but they should be cooked.
Cooked beans can be an excellent source of protein and fiber. However, beans should not replace the meat-based protein in your dog’s diet.
Certain beans can provide an extra boost to your dog’s immune system as well.
Avoid feeding your dog canned beans because they contain lots of preservatives. Dogs cannot handle preservatives like we can.
