Can dogs eat broccoli – the hidden danger

Can dogs eat broccoli?

Can dogs eat broccoli?

Yes, broccoli is safe to give your dog in moderation. As a much under-valued member of the cruciferous family, broccoli is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw, stir-fried, roasted, boiled, and even hidden in a smoothie.

So, while you may not naturally think of broccoli as a treat for you or your dog, it’ worth giving it a second look for all the health benefits it offers.

Feeding your dog broccoli – the benefits

This nutrient-packed vegetable is as good for dogs as it is for us. Broccoli is a valuable source of the following nutrients that are essential for good health.

  • Vitamin K is essential for normal blood clotting, and it plays a vital role in bone health.
  • Vitamin C; is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, protecting the body from free radicals. It also builds collagen, which promotes and forms bone and tissue.
  • Fiber; which is fantastic for the health of the digestive tract and for lowering cholesterol
  • Potassium; contributes to the healthy function of nerves.
  • Folate; helps develop and maintain new cells in the body.

But the benefits of broccoli for dogs don’t stop there; broccoli also contains copper, zinc, manganese, and phosphorus, all of which contribute and go to support a healthy immune system.

Low in calories and fat, broccoli is high in vitamins and minerals, and small quantities can provide a healthy alternative to commercial dog treats.

How much broccoli can I give my dog?

While broccoli is safe for dogs in small amounts, too much can cause mild stomach upsets. Broccoli, along with other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and kale, contains a naturally occurring sulfur-based phytochemical called Isothiocyanate.

Although not serious, one of the side effects of giving your dog too much broccoli is gas. The high fiber content can be too much for your dog’s body to digest. The sulfur combined with the bacteria in your dog’s gut produces gas that can be very unpleasant.

Although Isothiocyanates in broccoli florets have anti-inflammatory properties and are said to help fight some cancer in people, our dogs don’t react the same. Isothiocyanates are known to be stomach irritants, so moderation is the key to getting a healthy balance between the benefits and risks of feeding broccoli to your dog.

Based on your dog’s size, no more than ten percent of your dog’s daily intake of dog food should be broccoli. Anything over twenty-five percent is dangerous and is considered toxic. So, if you have been feeding your dog broccoli and notice any of the following signs, stop immediately and contact your vet;

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy

How do I give my dog Broccoli?

One of the best things about broccoli is how versatile it is. Not only can it be eaten raw, but it can be boiled, roasted, griddled, and even liquified and added to smoothies! Although broccoli can be added directly to your dog’s food or fresh florets offered to your dog as a treat, the best way for your dog to eat broccoli dog is if you chop it up into small pieces.

While most dogs eat broccoli florets without much issue, the stalk is much more fibrous. Large portions of stalk present a choking hazard, especially if your dog tends to inhale its food.

Dogs can eat cooked broccoli much more easily as it becomes soft. So if you want to add it to your dog’s diet but are concerned your dog won’t chew it sufficiently, cook the broccoli well before adding it to your dog’s food.

Can dogs eat broccoli?

Yes, broccoli is considered one of the safe fruits and vegetables for dogs to eat. As long as you remember the 10% rule, you can share broccoli with your dog in moderation. Broccoli contains good levels of vitamin c and vitamin k as well as fiber and is a nutritious addition to your dog’s diet.

If you really want to treat your dog and go one step further than raw broccoli florets, why not try making one of these recipes for your dog as a special snack,

These tasty recipes are from the Doggy Dessert Chef

Can-I-give-my-dog-broccoli

Cheesy Broccoli Dog Treats

Ingredients

1 cup shredded Cheese

1 (14 ounces) bag frozen Broccoli Florets, thawed and pureed

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened

1/2 cup Milk

2 1/2 cup Whole Wheat Flour

Directions

1. preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients one at a time, stirring well after each addition

3. Knead dough into ball and roll onto a heavily floured surface 1/2 inch thick and cut with your shot glass.

4. Place on your prepared cookie sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Cool and refrigerate.

Makes 4 to 5 dozen small Rounds.

Broccoli Carrot Chicken Treats

Ingredients

1 Chicken breast, cooked and chopped

1 cup finely grated Carrots

1/2 cup chopped Broccoli

1 teaspoon Lemon juice

3 tablespoons butter, softened

1 Egg

2 cups Oat Flour

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients one at a time, stirring well after each addition

2. Divide the dough into fourths and place each dough ball onto a piece of wax paper.

3. Shape the dough into rolls about 1  1/2 inches in diameter and wrap each in plastic wrap or foil and allow to chill in the refrigerator for at least three hours.

4. preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

6. To bake, slice rolls about 1/4 inch and bake on a prepared baking sheet for 15 to 20 minutes. Cool and refrigerate.

The rolls can be frozen for about four weeks. It is best to let them stand at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes before slicing if working with frozen rolls.