Broccoli is packed with vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and is delicious when roasted, boiled, steamed, or however you cook it. Never dog broccoli are they good or bad?
Read on to learn if you can give your dog a quick taste of this nutrient-packed miniature “tree” the next time he craves some of your lunch.
Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
Yes, dogs can eat broccoli. Dogs are omnivores and benefit from plenty of fruit and vegetables for their numerous nutritional properties.
Is broccoli good for dogs?
In small quantities, yes, dog broccoli is good for you. Dogs can benefit from the nutrients in broccoli:
- Vitamin B, C, K;
- Mineral salts (zinc, iron, calcium, potassium);
- Fibre.
These vegetables low in fat and sugar and rich in vitamins and fiber are valuable antioxidants, protect eyes and bones and promote growth.
Is broccoli bad for dogs on occasion?
Despite its numerous benefits, broccoli is not among the most ideal vegetables for dogs. In fact, these vegetables present two main dangers for dogs:
- Isothiocyanate poisoning;
- Choking hazard.
Ask your vet if broccoli is safe and suitable for dogs.
Isothiocyanate
Broccoli florets contain a potentially dangerous ingredient known as isothiocyanatewhich can cause severe abdominal pain, gastric irritation and digestive problems if a dog eats too much broccoli.
Isothiocyanate is also present in other cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, cauliflower and brussels sprouts, although in smaller quantities than in broccoli.
It is worth noting that the isothiocyanate in broccoli is harmful to dogs in large quantities, but is considered very healthy for people. In humans, isothiocyanate has an anti-inflammatory action and broccoli has been recommended for those suffering from arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. This element is also being investigated as a cancer drug.
Choking hazard
Broccoli stalks can cause blockage in the esophagus, especially in small dogs.
Therefore, be sure to give your dog broccoli cut into bite-sized pieces and keep a close eye on your pet while he eats.
Small pieces also make it easier to measure how much broccoli your dog consumes.
Broccoli to the dog: daily amount
According to veterinarians, broccoli for dogs is considered safe if the total amount ingested is less than 10% of the total amount of food eaten in a day; more than 25% is considered toxic.
A dog can eat 10% of his daily calories from fruits, vegetables and dog treats.
Start feeding your dog broccoli slowly to make sure your faithful friend digests it without any problems. He watches closely for signs of stomach upset, such as flatulence or diarrhea.
In terms of the 10% rule, we have to remember that the actual amount varies based on several factors.
The size of the dog
A pet’s size affects the amount of food it should eat in a day. The bigger it is, the more Fido will need energy!
Fido’s activity level
The frequency of exercise is also a determining factor in how much food a dog can eat.
A greater level of activity requires greater energy expenditure and therefore a greater amount of food to ingest.
The characteristics of the dog
Some dogs may 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.
How to give broccoli to the dog?
If you serve broccoli to your dog, be sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces and cook them before serving. Do not add seasonings, spices or oils, which can harm your little tailed friend.
Broccoli can be stringy, so make sure the pieces are soft and easy to chew. Also, remember to serve them only as an occasional treat and in small quantities.
In general, given the dangers of broccoli compared to the benefits it brings, it’s best to opt for green vegetables that are more suitable for your four-legged friend, such as spinach or peas.