Can Dogs Eat Broccoli? Does It Have Any Health Benefits? 

Broccoli is often a staple in various households. But what if you have a dog at home? Can dogs eat broccoli? Can you share this vegetable with them? 

Well, it is always advised to consult a vet when you introduce any new food to your pet, especially if that is human food. Also, if you heard it from your neighbor that their dog has grown quite fond of broccoli and wants to try it for your dog, then hold that thought. 

What one dog likes, another dog might not. Moreover, this depends on multiple factors like age, diet, health condition, and health history. So, we are left with that particular question. And the answer is yes. Dogs can eat broccoli. 

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?

Can dogs eat broccoli? Or is it toxic? Well, dogs can eat broccoli, and it contains a lot of nutrients that dogs can benefit from. So, it is safe to give your pup broccoli, but in small proportions.

Moreover, it is advised to give broccoli to adult dogs. Puppies have different dietary needs, and their digestive system are underdeveloped. Broccolis have high fiber, which can cause problems for puppies. 

Green vegetables can be a healthy treat for a dog, as long as you follow their feeding guideline. Their treats should not be more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. It contains isothiocyanate, which can cause digestive issues when consumed in large amounts. 

Is Broccoli Good For Dogs?

Broccoli is a safe vegetable that you can give your dog. Moreover, it contains a lot of nutrients and health benefits for a dog.

You will find a lot of commercial dog foods that contain broccoli. It is full of digestive plant protein, fiber, and antioxidants, along with other vitamins and minerals. It contains: 

• Vitamin K 

• Vitamin C 

• Magnesium

• Potassium 

• Folic acid 

• Sodium 

• Chromium 

Even though it has a lot of vitamins and minerals, you cannot treat it as a source of only vitamins and minerals. Also, be careful about how much you feed them. They can have it, but in limited quantities, as it may disrupt their gastrointestinal health. 

How Much Broccoli Should You Give Them?

If you are unsure about the amount of broccoli to give your dog, here is a chart that can help you. The amount is determined considering their body weight and breed size.

How To Prepare Broccoli For Them?

Now that you know the answer to can dogs have broccoli, it is time to understand how to serve it to them.

Raw Broccoli 

Dogs can eat raw broccoli. To start with, you need to clean it thoroughly, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and take the stems out to avoid choking. It is safe and nutritious. It is one of the best ways to give them broccoli, as it keeps the nutrients intact. 

Steamed Broccoli 

It is safe to give them steamed broccoli. You have to steam it for a few minutes, and it will retain more nutrients than cooking it. However, ensure that you do not add salt or any other kind of seasonings.

Cooked Broccoli 

Cooking the broccoli might take a little longer than steaming those. Moreover, it takes away some of the natural ingredients as well. But it is still healthy. Make sure you do not add any extra ingredients like salt and butter, or any other kind of seasonings. 

Smoothie

Also, if you want to try something else, you can blend it with some other vegetables and dog-safe fruits like bananas and blueberries. Can dogs eat peas? Yes, they can.

So, you can put that together as well to add some texture. Moreover, you can add it as a topping for their food or freeze it in Kong dog toys as a frozen treat. 

Can Dogs Be Allergic To Broccoli?

Can dogs eat broccoli? Yes. But can they be allergic to broccoli? Also, yes. Dogs can develop allergies when they are exposed to one food repeatedly. Food allergies can cause ear infections, skin issues, and rashes.

If you are introducing broccoli to them, you might notice signs of food intolerance, which is not exactly an allergy. Signs of food intolerance include diarrhea or vomiting. 

Can It Be Dangerous For Dogs? 

According to Dr. Jerry Klein, DVM, and Chief Veterinary Officer for the American Kennel Club, “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.” 

So, if your dog has somehow consumed too much broccoli when left unsupervised, you will have to watch out for these symptoms: 

• Loss of appetite 

• Excessive diarrhea 

• Fatigue 

• Vomiting 

• Depression 

• Weakness 

• Licking their lips or other objects 

• Blood in their stool or vomit 

• Collapse 

If you notice any of these symptoms, you need to consult a vet immediately. Moreover, you have to supervise when they are eating because it can cause choking hazards. It is better if you cut it into bite-sized pieces. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Here are some of the common questions people ask while discussing whether dogs can eat broccoli.