Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? (and Is It Safe?) | Hill's Pet (2024)

Before sharing your veggie tray with your pup, you may wonder if dogs can eat broccoli and if it is good for dogs?"

The short answer is yes: broccoli is a safe, tasty treat for our canine friends. It may even have some health benefits. But there are a few things you'll want to consider when serving this vegetable to your pup.

Is Broccoli Good for Dogs?

It's hailed as a superfood for humans because of its high nutritional value, but broccoli may benefit dogs in a number of ways, too.

It's chock-full of fiber, which can aid in digestion and weight management. And it's loaded with vitamins — including A, B, C, D, E and K — that may help promote overall well-being. Broccoli also contains lutein, a nutrient that supports eye and heart health, and other antioxidants that curb inflammation.

While dogs are omnivores, vegetables like broccoli can be a healthy addition to their meal plan. However, cruciferous vegetables have a reputation for causing gas, so it might make your pup a bit gassy.

What Are the Concerns?

Speaking of gas, this side effect of eating broccoli may be a cause for concern. Excessive gas may indicate that your dog has a digestive issue. So if you're feeding your pup broccoli for the first time and the resulting smell becomes downright unbearable, give your veterinarian a call to rule out anything more serious.

Additionally, here are three other concerns to bear in mind when giving your dog broccoli:

1. Portion Control

The saying too much of a good thing also applies to broccoli. Although it's OK for dogs to eat, consuming too much broccoli may cause your pet gastrointestinal distress, according to The World Small Animal Veterinary Association. They explain that this veggie should make up no more than 10% of your pup's daily meals in order to avoid any health complications. Broccoli contains isothiocyanate, a naturally occurring compound that along with fiber and complex sugars can cause mild to extreme digestive distress, including gas, stomach upset, diarrhea and blockages.

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? (and Is It Safe?) | Hill's Pet (1)

You'll also want to keep an eye on your dog's vitamin C intake. "While humans require vitamin C from (their) diet, the bodies of cats and dogs can make their own," explained the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University.

2. Choking Hazard

Broccoli stems are edible, but they pose a high choking risk to dogs. According to the American Kennel Club, broccoli stems "have been known to cause obstruction in the esophagus, especially in small dogs."

To prevent choking, cut broccoli into bite-size pieces before sharing it with your dog. Additionally, you may want to stay close by while they're enjoying their snack to keep an ear out for any signs of distress.

3. Harmful Bacteria

Broccoli is versatile and can be served steamed, boiled, baked or raw. However, if you serve it to your dog raw, be sure to clean it thoroughly because of an increased risk of lingering bacteria such as Salmonella. "Although dogs and cats may be more resistant to these bacteria [than humans], they are not immune and can become very ill," according to the Association of American Feed Control Officials.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection in dogs include:

  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Dehydration
  • Loss of appetite
  • Increased heart rate
  • Lethargy

If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms after eating broccoli, stop feeding broccoli and contact your vet right away for treatment options.

So, can dogs eat broccoli? Absolutely, so long as it's in moderation. Broccoli should be regarded as a nutritious snack — not a meal. Offer this veggie alongside a well-balanced dog food formulated for your pet's specific nutritional needs.

Contributor Bio

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? (and Is It Safe?) | Hill's Pet (2)

Christine O'Brien

Christine Brovelli-O'Brien, Ph.D., is a professional member of the Cat Writers' Association (CWA), a STEAM educator and a devoted cat parent. She writes about pets, education, women's health, and STEM-y stuff. Find and follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? (and Is It Safe?) | Hill's Pet (2024)

FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? (and Is It Safe?) | Hill's Pet? ›

Although it's OK for dogs to eat, consuming too much broccoli may cause your pet gastrointestinal distress, according to The World Small Animal Veterinary Association. They explain that this veggie should make up no more than 10% of your pup's daily meals in order to avoid any health complications.

What is the best vegetable 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.

How much broccoli can I give my dog? ›

How much broccoli can a dog eat? Although dogs can eat broccoli, it should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. If broccoli makes up more than 25% of their diet, it is considered toxic, due to a naturally occurring compound found in the florets called isothiocyanate.

What vegetables can dogs not eat? ›

There are some fruits and vegetables that should always be avoided when feeding your dog:
  • wild mushrooms, toadstools or fungi – button or white mushrooms should always be cooked.
  • onions, leeks, chives and garlic.
  • grapes and raisins.
  • tomato leaves, stems or unripe young tomatoes.
  • green potatoes, potato leaves and stems.
Feb 27, 2024

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.

Are eggs good for dogs? ›

Eggs are nutritious for both people and dogs. They can be tasty treats or a hearty breakfast, whether they're hard-boiled, poached, scrambled, or over easy. A cooked entire egg or yolk can be good for your dog, unless your pet has a pre-existing health condition like acute pancreatitis or diabetes.

What meat is best 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.

Should I feed my dog 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.

Is rice good for dogs? ›

Yes, dogs can eat white rice. Although lower in nutritional value than brown rice, white varieties of rice can be included in a dog's diet. Since it's fairly bland, vets often recommend white rice for dogs with an upset stomach.

Can dogs eat bananas? ›

Bananas are safe for dogs, but moderation is key. Bananas are high in sugar, so too much of it can put your dog at risk of developing medical conditions. You should give your dog only a few thin slices of banana once in a while. At least 90% of your dog's food should be regular dog food.

What meat should dogs not eat? ›

Feeding your dog fatty foods, like hot dogs, bacon, ribs, or fried chicken, can upset your dog's stomach and cause vomiting and diarrhea. It can also lead to pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas. Some breeds, like Miniature Schnauzers and Yorkshire Terriers, may be more prone to pancreatitis.

What foods cause kidney failure in dogs? ›

Grapes & Raisins

Any cookies, cakes or other treats containing grapes or raisins should be kept well away from dogs. Grapes and raisins may cause severe liver damage or even kidney failure in dogs.

Can dogs have peanut butter? ›

Whether speaking to new or seasoned pet parents, veterinarians are often asked 'can dogs eat peanut butter? ' The good news is that regular peanut butter is safe to give your dog as a treat. Just make sure to avoid peanut butter with Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in lower or sugar-free products.

Can dogs eat popcorn? ›

Is Eating Popcorn Safe for Dogs? Yes and no. Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. Buttered popcorn or popcorn with other toppings is not safe for your dog on a regular basis, although eating a few dropped pieces here and there probably won't hurt them.

Is bread good for dogs? ›

Dogs can eat bread, but only in moderation. Small amounts of plain white or brown bread are okay for dogs eager to try this staple human food, but it should be only given as the very occasional treat. Certain bread types may be toxic to your pup and will contain added extras.

Can dogs eat tuna? ›

Yes, you can feed your dog canned tuna, as long as you do so in moderation and infrequently. Choose the version that's packed in fresh water instead of oil or salted water. Also check the label to make sure there is no extra salt added to the canned tuna.

What vegetables should dogs eat daily? ›

Here is a list of vegetables that make safe and healthy treats for your dog:
  • Beets. Beets, which are packed in nutrients, are often found in commercial dog food. ...
  • Bell Peppers. ...
  • Broccoli. ...
  • Carrots. ...
  • Celery. ...
  • Green Beans. ...
  • Peas. ...
  • Spinach.
Mar 29, 2023

What vegetables do dogs need daily? ›

Carrots, peas, green beans, sweet potatoes, and bananas are packed with important vitamins, along with potassium, which is good for a dog's muscles, nerves, and kidneys. Their fibercan also help dogs stay regular.

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

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