Can Dogs eat Broccoli? The short answer is yes they can.
However, like all human food you may choose to feed your dog, broccoli comes with the usual caveat of moderation. Dogs can eat broccoli but only in controlled amounts.
The reason for this is that a dog’s digestive system works very differently to humans. Although broccoli does contain plenty of nutrients, a dog does not necessarily break the food down the same way that we do.
And with broccoli, there is an added danger. If your dog eats too much, it can lead to poisoning.
Can Dogs Eat Broccoli – What is a safe amount?
It is important to realize that broccoli itself isn’t poisonous to dogs, it is the toxic substance called isothiocyanate that is contained within it. Taking a too higher a dose of isothiocyanate, is what causes your dog to be poisoned.
So the real answer to ‘can dogs eat broccoli’ is yes, as long as it does not take up more than 5% of your dogs daily dietary intake. This is the recommended safe amount.
Anything more than this is a problem. If a dog eats broccoli for as much as 10% of its diet, they will suffer from gastrointestinal upset.
The isothiocyante contained within broccoli could have fatal effects on a dog if the vegetable makes up more than 25% of its diet. However, it would be a pretty mean owner to make their dog eat so many greens of one sort.
Just make sure your pet doesn’t get at the broccoli in the cupboard without you knowing.
Can Dogs Eat Broccoli – Any benefits?
A moderate amount of broccoli as part of your dogs diet is beneficial.
For both humans and dogs, broccoli is a great source of soluble fiber. A dog needs to eat fiber to promote intestinal health.
The antioxidants in broccoli also help reduce the occurrence of chronic diseases. The vegetable is full of bioflavonoids. This is a compound found in foods that is linked to the prevention of cancer.
Dogs are omnivores, so it important that they eat vegetables. However, although dogs can eat broccoli, there are plenty of other vegetables available as a substitute.
With the potential risk of isothiocyanate poisoning, if you do decide to feed your dog broccoli make sure the amount is small.
Resources
- Find out more about Bioflavonoids here.
- For more information on the isothiocyanate found in broccoli head here.
- Can dogs eat celery?
Comments
Can dogs eat broccoli? If you have any comments on your own experiences with feeding your dog broccoli please leave them below.