Can dogs eat Brussel sprouts? This vegetable is pretty controversial with humans, with many people hating it — but dogs aren’t quite as fussy as us. Therefore, it can be tempting to slip them one when they’re eyeing up this vegetable at the table hopefully.
As with any food, it’s important to research first if it’s safe to give it to them.
So, can dogs eat Brussel sprouts, or is it better to skip this veg when it comes to your pup?
Can Dogs Eat Brussel Sprouts?
The short answer is yes, dogs can eat Brussel sprouts!
The vegetable is perfectly safe for dogs, unlike others that can pose some health risks. It also provides some health benefits.
The Benefits
They should be fed in moderation, like any human food, but Brussel sprouts do have benefits for dogs.
They’re rich in vitamin K, which helps support the bones. For dogs that are still growing, this can support them and make sure their bones stay in good health even when they reach their full size. Dogs grow fast and there’s often a lot of strain on their bones as they get older, so anything that supports them is great.
They also have minerals such as potassium, which is very beneficial for your dog.
Brussel sprouts contain antioxidants, which can help the body’s fight against the risk of cancer. Since dogs can sadly get cancer just as humans can, feeding them some Brussel sprouts in moderation is a great idea. They’re also good for improving the circulation of the blood.
The Risks
Just like with humans, you shouldn’t let your dog eat old, brown sprouts, as these can cause stomach upset. If the Brussel sprouts look ‘off’ and you wouldn’t eat them, skip giving them to your dog, as their stomachs can be sensitive too.
Some dogs — particularly small breeds and puppies — have sensitivities to certain foods, so start off slow and check there isn’t a reaction.
The only other risk is gas! Gas isn’t a risk to your dog’s health, it’s just unpleasant for you — but getting it out is good for their colon, so don’t worry if your dog is a little smelly after having some sprouts. Humans can get the same way!
How Much Can They Eat?
Although you should start off slow when giving dogs sprouts, make sure you’re accounting for the calories and reduce their actual food accordingly. How much is safe for them will be related to their size, weight, and breed, so it’s important to just keep an eye on what you’re feeding them and judge by moving up slowly.
If feeding them as a treat, go by the 10% rule. Treats should only make up 10% of your dog’s daily calories at the most, and their food should be adjusted accordingly. Your dog’s daily suggested calories can be found by using an online calculator or a food bag as a guide but really, it’s most important to go by their body condition and adjust. Every dog is different!
How To Prepare Them
Although it’s not dangerous to feed your dog raw sprouts, they may not like them very much. Roasting and boiling them are great options, and you should cut them up to avoid making whole sprouts a choking hazard. Some dogs get very enthusiastic about their food and forget to chew.
You should make sure they aren’t seasoned with things dangerous to dogs. Garlic and onion powder are terrible for dogs, and even salt and pepper aren’t great. That’s why it’s important to think twice before slipping your dog some sprouts from your plate, as you likely aren’t eating unseasoned sprouts.
Instead, think ahead, and prepare a more bland version of the sprouts for your dogs while cooking them. Although garlic and onion powder, as well as other spices and seasonings, may not harm your dog in small amounts, it’s better to never take the risk. Over time, the effects can build up.
Similar Vegetables
Brussel sprouts aren’t the only great vegetable you can give your dog in moderation. Other healthy vegetables to feed them include:
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Zucchini
- Bell peppers
- Sweet potato
There are also great fruits to feed your dog, but it’s very important to research first. Not every fruit or vegetable is healthy for dogs just because it’s good for humans, and you could do serious damage by giving your dog something that they shouldn’t have.
Grapes and cherries, for example, can be very dangerous.
So, can dogs eat Brussel sprouts? Yes! As with any human food, they should be given in moderation. The health benefits of antioxidants, vitamin K, and potassium are great for them. Just make sure they aren’t seasoned with anything dangerous, and cut them up to avoid a choking hazard.
