The artichoke is generally eaten from November to April: those with a sweet tooth go crazy for the so-called soft and delicate “heart”, while others prefer to “leaf” the petals of this delicious vegetable one by one.
Ma dogs can eat artichokes? As a responsible dog owner, it’s good to know if the food you keep at home is safe for a sneaky canine snout or it’s best to keep it away from any culinary attractions!
What are Artichokes?
Artichokes are a variety of a kind cards grown as food. The edible part of the plant is the flower buds before they open, after which they become hard and uneatable.
Can Dogs Eat Artichokes?
Yes, dogs can eat artichokes and they are not poisonous to Fido. On the contrary, these vegetables are very nutritious as they contain vitamin C, folic acid, potassium, niacin and many antioxidants.
These vitamins and minerals help prevent disease and support the immune system, muscles, metabolism, and more.
Artichokes may also help dogs with irritable bowels, as well as maintain healthy blood pressure, lower cholesterol and improve liver function.
When are artichokes bad for dogs?
Artichokes are not toxic to dogs, and this applies to both the stems, heart and leaves of the vegetable.
However, as with any food, there are rules to observe.
Excess artichokes
Any excess food is bad for both humans and animals. Canine obesity is a growing problem and it is very easy to fall into the trap of giving our faithful friend more rewards than he needs.
All dogs require a balanced diet high in protein that has sufficient calories to provide them with the energy they need.
Treats like artichokes can be part of a dog’s daily needs, but shouldn’t be fed beyond their caloric requirements.
Food intolerance
There is also the possibility, as with any food intended for humans, that our four-legged friends will react with symptoms such as diarrhea and/or vomiting.
Canned or pickled artichokes
It’s better to avoid canned or pickled artichokes: they probably contain additional ingredients, such as preservatives, oils and salt, which are bad for your four-legged friend.
They can lead to obesity and other health problems if artichokes are fed to your dog in large quantities and over a prolonged period.
How to give artichokes to the dog?
Dogs can eat artichokes prepared in the following 3 ways:
- Raw: raw artichokes retain all their nutrients.
- Steamed: steamed artichokes retain their nutritional properties more than boiling.
- Boiled: serve the artichokes al cane just blanched and let them cool.
- Don’t season yourself: avoid adding the typical condiments of us humans such as salt, spices, onion or garlic.
- In small doses: Cut the artichoke into small pieces that are easy for your pet to eat and digest.