Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? Can Dogs Have Broccoli? Is Broccoli Good For Dogs? (2024)

Yes, dogs can eat broccoli. Dogs can eat the vegetable both cooked and raw, as long as there are no seasonings or oils added. However, this vegetable should always be given in very small quantities, especially because the florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause gastric irritation in dogs.

Benefits of Broccoli for Dogs

While dogs don’t actually need large amounts of fruits and vegetables to live healthy lives, certain onesdo make suitable treats on occasion and can even provide health benefits.

Broccoli is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat. It is safe for dogs to eat, raw or cooked, as long as no seasonings are added.

Hazards of Broccoli for Dogs

However, AKC Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein, DVM, warns that broccoli also contains a potentially harmful ingredient. The florets of this vegetable contain isothiocyanates, which can cause mild-to-potentially-severe gastric irritation in some dogs.

Dr. Klein also states, “Broccoli is considered safe in dogs if the total amount ingested is less than 10% of their daily intake; more than 25% is considered toxic.”

In terms of the “10 percent rule” (that treats should make up no more than that percentage of a dog’s diet), we have to remember that the actual amount differs depending on the size of your dog. Furthermore, every animal is unique. Some pets might react more strongly to broccoli than others, so it’s very important to monitor individual dogs to see how they react to broccoli or any new food item, and also to talk to your vet.

Choking Hazard for Dogs

Also, broccoli stalks have been known to cause obstruction in the esophagus, especially in small dogs, says Dr. Klein. Therefore, make sure you cut up the broccoli into bite-size chunks to avoid choking; keep an eye on your dog as they eat.

Small bites also make it easier to measure the amount of broccoli your dog consumes. As with any new food, start with a very small piece of broccoli to make sure your dog has no negative reactions before feeding them more. Ask your vet if you have any questions about how much broccoli is safe for your dog or if broccoli is the right treat for your dog’s health.

Learn more about which fruits and vegetables that dogs can and can’t eat here.

Here at the AKC, we field many queries from anxious dog owners about what is and isn’t safe for their canine companions to eat. Questions range from the obvious (“Can dogs eat steak bones?”) to the trendy (“Can dogs eat quinoa?”) Check out more “Can dogs eat…” articles on AKC.org to see what foods could be harmful to your dog, includingcherries,avocados, andonions.

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? Can Dogs Have Broccoli? Is Broccoli Good For Dogs? (2024)

FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? Can Dogs Have Broccoli? Is Broccoli Good For Dogs? ›

Yes, dogs can eat broccoli. Dogs can eat the vegetable both cooked and raw, as long as there are no seasonings or oils added. However, this vegetable should always be given in very small quantities, especially because the florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause gastric irritation in dogs.

How do you prepare broccoli for dogs? ›

The best way to serve it to them is steamed or boiled, as this will soften the texture of the vegetable and make it easier to swallow and digest. While, to us, this may not sound like the tastiest way to serve it, don't be tempted to add any seasoning, as this isn't good for your dog and could even be toxic.

Is broccoli good for dogs? ›

In small quantities, yes, dogs can eat broccoli. Cooked, green veggies such as broccoli can make a reasonably healthy dog treat, but owners should only offer it in moderation. This is because broccoli contains isothiocyanate, a substance that can cause digestive issues if ingested in large quantities.

Is raw broccoli good for dogs' teeth? ›

(Broccoli is great for pups on a diet!) Contains lutein and antioxidants, which support eye health, heart health, and have anti-inflammatory properties. Chewing on raw broccoli stalks is great for your dog's teeth, too, as it helps to break away plaque and tartar.

What are the best vegetables for dogs? ›

Some of the most commonly used vegetables in dog food are beets, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, carrots, celery, corn, green beans, peas, spinach and sweet potatoes. These vegetables are not only easily digestible for dogs but they're also rich in essential nutrients.

Are eggs good for dogs to eat? ›

Yes. Eggs are good for dogs to eat. Of course, they are rich in protein, but aside from that eggs are also a good source of linoleic acid and fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin A.

What is the best way to cook vegetables for dogs? ›

Steam, Bake, or Boil

The method selected does not matter as long as the vegetable is thoroughly cooked prior to feeding.

Should dogs eat raw or cooked broccoli? ›

Yes, dogs can eat broccoli. Dogs can eat the vegetable both cooked and raw, as long as there are no seasonings or oils added. However, this vegetable should always be given in very small quantities, especially because the florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause gastric irritation in dogs.

What's the best meat for dogs? ›

Chicken, turkey, lean ground beef, and chuck steak or roast are animal-based proteins, which help dogs grow strong. A few rules apply: Always cook meat well. Never serve it raw or undercooked.

Can dogs eat cheese? ›

In most cases, yes, dogs can eat cheese. When given in moderation, it can make a great high reward training treat (particularly when there's lots of distractions). Most dogs adore the taste of it too! It's important to remember that some cheeses have added ingredients, which need to be avoided.

Can dogs eat boiled eggs? ›

Dogs can eat hard-boiled or scrambled eggs. The main objective is that the eggs need to be cooked. Do not feed raw eggs to dogs. Eggs are good for dogs as they provide an excellent source of fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and protein.

What happens if a dog eats too much broccoli? ›

If you believe your dog ate too much broccoli, the first symptoms to watch out for are diarrhea, vomiting, or other signs of stomach upset, such as whimpering. These symptoms will require immediate veterinary attention.

Can dogs eat bananas? ›

Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They're high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog's main diet.

What is the healthiest vegetable for dogs? ›

These are the 10 best vegetables for dogs to add to your pet's diet:
  1. Asparagus. Add one to two ounces of lightly steamed asparagus tips (cut into small pieces to prevent choking) to add variety, flavor, vitamins, and minerals to a dog's meal. ...
  2. Broccoli. ...
  3. Carrots. ...
  4. Green Beans. ...
  5. Kale. ...
  6. Mushrooms. ...
  7. Parsley. ...
  8. Pumpkin.
Apr 29, 2024

What vegetables should dogs not have? ›

The following veggies are considered unsafe for dogs: Garlic, Onions, Shallots, & Chives: Garlic, onions, shallots, and chives are toxic to dogs, whether raw or cooked. They have substances that may cause anemia and damage red blood cells. Signs of illness may take several days to manifest.

What is the healthiest food to feed your dog? ›

16 Healthy and Safe Foods You Can Feed Your Dog
  1. Apples. Fresh apples are a wonderful, crunchy snack for dogs. ...
  2. Bananas. ...
  3. Blueberries. ...
  4. Carrots. ...
  5. Unsalted Cashews. ...
  6. Cauliflower. ...
  7. Unseasoned Cooked Chicken. ...
  8. Unseasoned Cooked Eggs.
Jan 19, 2024

Should you boil vegetables for dogs? ›

Cooking, steaming, or blanching vegetables is an excellent way to add them to a dog's diet. Cooking and pureeing the vegetables makes it easier to add them to your dog's regular food. It can also be easier for your dog to digest the vegetables after they're cooked.

How long to boil broccoli for dogs? ›

Wash and cut the broccoli into small florets. Blanch the florets in boiling water for about 2 minutes. Remove the broccoli from the boiling water and immediately transfer it into a bowl of ice water to cool down and stop the cooking process.

How to cook broccoli and cauliflower for dogs? ›

It's absolutely safe to feed Cauliflower & Broccoli to your pets. Make sure they're served in small quantities especially for the very first time. You can serve them steamed or sauteed, not overcooked and unseasoned. You can also serve them raw, but swallowing large pieces is a potential choking hazard.

Is boiled chicken and broccoli good for dogs? ›

If you need to make a home cooked diet, boiled/boneless/skinless chicken breasts with boiled rice along with added cooked vegetables is a good idea (pumpkin, carrots, broccoli, etc.). You can add in vegetables to make it more balanced. Avoid raw food and bones as they cause many dietary issues.

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