Can dogs eat vegetables? Absolutely! Many nutrient-rich veggies make great doggie snacks. But which ones are safe for dogs? And which ones are not? As an integrative veterinarian, I, Dr. Julie Buzby, will help you discover 14 vegetables most dogs can eat and how to prepare them. Plus, I’ll share four vegetables you should never feed your canine companion.
While humans and dogs have distinct nutritional needs, we can both benefit from incorporating vegetables into our diets. Vegetables are beneficial for dogs at all life stages, from playful puppies to wise, grey-muzzled seniors. Before introducing any new food outside of your dog’s regular diet, it’s always wise to confirm its safety and consult your veterinarian, especially if your dog has existing health conditions. Knowing what things dogs can’t eat is just as important as knowing what they can.
Happy dog holding fresh carrots, a safe and crunchy vegetable snack for canines
Benefits of Giving Dogs Vegetables
Veggies are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, whether offered as occasional treats or as supplements to your dog’s main diet. Here are some of the general benefits your dog can gain:
- Weight management—Dogs who are overweight can greatly benefit from vegetable treats because they are typically low in calories and help them feel full faster. When your dog feels satisfied, he or she is less likely to overeat or act perpetually hungry. I often recommend a “green bean diet” (adding a portion of green beans with each meal) to help my overweight doggy patients combat hunger while reducing their overall calorie intake.
- Digestive health—The natural fiber found in vegetables promotes a healthy digestive tract and optimal dog anal gland function, helping to prevent constipation and support regular bowel movements.
- Immune health—Vegetables are loaded with important vitamins and minerals that can help boost your dog’s immune system, making them more resilient against illness.
- Diabetes management—Certain vegetables can assist in regulating blood sugar levels in dogs with diabetes, making them a valuable part of their dietary plan under veterinary guidance.
- Antioxidants—Vegetables are natural sources of antioxidants, which play a crucial role in reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of various diseases.
- Training rewards—Veggies can serve as excellent, healthy rewards during training sessions. Crunchy vegetables like carrots can be an especially motivating and satisfying treat for many dogs.
14 Vegetables Safe for Dogs to Eat
As you probably know, not all “human food” is safe for dogs. Before giving your dog anything outside of his or her normal diet, you should always make sure it is safe. There are many vegetables dogs can eat. The following are my top 14 favorites to share with my clients, along with tips on preparation and important considerations.
1. Pumpkin
Ignoring the debate over whether pumpkins are technically fruits or vegetables, they are number one on my list of dog-safe “veggies”!
Your senior dog can particularly benefit from pumpkin because it’s high in fiber and can help combat common stool problems. If your dog has diarrhea, the fiber will help thicken his or her stool by absorbing excess water. Conversely, if your canine companion is constipated, the extra fiber will help move things along and promote regularity.
Pumpkin also contains pepita oil, a type of omega-6 fatty acid known as linoleic acid. This particular fatty acid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, especially beneficial for your dog’s skin health.
Cooked or canned pumpkin is the best (and easiest) way to serve pumpkin to your dog. When shopping for pumpkin, pay close attention to the label. Plain canned pumpkin is my recommendation. Make sure you don’t inadvertently pick up pumpkin pie filling, which is loaded with added sugar and spices that are not good for dogs.
Introduce pumpkin to your dog’s diet gradually, offering one to two tablespoons mixed with his or her regular food. Don’t be alarmed if your dog’s stool color turns a bit orange – this is a normal effect of the pumpkin pigment.
2. Broccoli
Broccoli is another one of my favorite vegetables that dogs can eat. It is an excellent source of fiber and can also provide vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system.
It’s best served cooked with no seasonings. However, small pieces of raw broccoli stalks also get a thumbs up from many dogs. Dogs often love a good crunchy treat, and raw broccoli makes a great low-calorie snack.
Be sure to serve bite-sized pieces to prevent them from becoming a choking hazard, especially if you have a small breed dog.
Dogs should eat broccoli in limited quantities because it can cause irritation to the lining of the esophagus and stomach if eaten in excess. Additionally, too much broccoli can give your dog unpleasant gas.
3. Carrots
I love giving carrots to dogs. Carrots are a good source of potassium, vitamin B6, and an excellent source of beta-carotene.
Owner feeding her dog a raw carrot stick as a healthy, low-calorie treat
Beta-carotene gives carrots their signature orange color. This compound is used in the body for the production of vitamin A, an essential vitamin that supports your dog’s immune system and vision. A deficiency in vitamin A can even lead to night blindness.
Many dog owners serve carrots steamed or boiled. A one-ounce serving of carrots contains about ten calories, making it a very filling, low-calorie treat that is ideal for dogs needing to lose weight. Personally, I love feeding my dogs raw carrots; they’re great crunchy treats that dogs truly enjoy.
To prevent choking, always supervise your dog and serve appropriately sized carrot pieces.
While carrots are low in calories, they are relatively high in natural sugar. Therefore, you’ll want to avoid giving carrots to your dog if he or she is diabetic or if your vet advises against it due to sugar content.
4. Green Beans
Green beans are a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium.
Due to their low-calorie, high-fiber content, they can be particularly beneficial for dogs with diabetes, helping to manage blood sugar. In addition, green beans are a go-to for dieting dogs because they help them feel full, are low in calories, and are rich in dietary fiber.
Green beans can be served boiled, steamed, or chopped. Avoid adding any seasonings, and also steer clear of canned green beans that contain large amounts of added salt, which is unhealthy for dogs. Start by giving your dog two to three green beans a day, ensuring that treats never exceed ten percent of his or her daily caloric intake, unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian. For a more in-depth look at daily vegetable allowances, you might want to check out what vegetables your dog can eat every day.
5. Kale and Spinach
Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale are an excellent choice of vegetables for your dog, offering a powerhouse of nutrients. These vegetables are high in:
- Calcium—Important for strong, healthy bones.
- Vitamin K—Crucial for the blood’s ability to clot properly.
- Vitamin A—Supports your dog’s vision and immune function.
- Iron—An integral component of hemoglobin, which helps red blood cells carry oxygen efficiently to tissues throughout the body.
- Folate—Necessary to facilitate the absorption of nutrients from food into the small intestines.
Kale and spinach can be served steamed or raw, but always without any added seasonings. One or two raw leaves are perfect for a snack, or you can shred the leaves and add them to your dog’s bowl at mealtime.
It’s important to note that too much kale can contribute to urinary problems and bladder stones due to its high-calcium content. Like any treat, give these greens in moderation. If your dog is prone to bladder stones or if you have any questions about feeding kale to your dog, please speak with your veterinarian for personalized advice.
6. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are another high-fiber vegetable that also contains vitamins C and K, along with trace minerals like magnesium, which supports cellular metabolism and muscle function.
When preparing Brussels sprouts for your dog, avoid using any oils or seasonings. When feeding, start with one or two Brussels sprouts at a time. If your dog consumes too many, he or she can become gassy and bloated, leading to abdominal discomfort.
Serve Brussels sprouts steamed or boiled for your dog. It’s crucial to cut each one into smaller pieces, as whole, round Brussels sprouts can pose a choking hazard for small and medium-sized dogs.
7. Zucchini
Zucchini contains calcium, iron, magnesium, and a good amount of fiber, all of which promote a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
Serve zucchini raw or steamed. Steaming makes them softer and easier to chew if your dog prefers a less crunchy treat.
Start with three to four slices at a time and always avoid zucchini that has seasonings or salad dressings. Many of these flavorings contain garlic and onions, which are toxic for dogs (more on that below). Some dressings also contain an ingredient called xylitol (or birch sugar) that is extremely toxic to dogs. Xylitol toxicity in dogs can cause rapid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure, and, unfortunately, can even be fatal.
8. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are another high-fiber food that make for a very tasty and nutritious treat. Frequently found in many commercial dog foods, sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A, B6, and C.
There are many ways to serve sweet potatoes to dogs. If fed raw, they should be chopped into very small cubes to prevent choking. Steaming or roasting the sweet potato makes them much softer, tastier, and significantly reduces any choking risk. Introduce sweet potatoes gradually by giving your dog three or four slices at a time.
Like carrots, sweet potatoes are relatively high in natural sugar content, so overweight and diabetic dogs should consume them sparingly or avoid them in their diets, as advised by a veterinarian.
9. Peas
Snow peas and sugar snap peas are great for your dog! They’re a good source of vitamins A and B and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. Zinc is another valuable mineral found in peas that plays a crucial role in a healthy immune system and proper thyroid gland function.
To feed your dog peas, steam or boil them until tender. A one-ounce serving of peas contains just twenty calories, making them a perfect low-calorie snack.
Variety of fresh, safe vegetables for dogs laid out, including carrots and green beans
Always avoid canned peas with high salt contents, as excessive sodium is detrimental to canine health. Peas also contain purines, a type of protein, so dogs with urinary incontinence or kidney issues should generally avoid them or consume them only under strict veterinary guidance.
10. Corn
Corn is another vegetable that is very common in dog food. Although it is sometimes unfairly villainized as a “filler,” corn offers many nutritional benefits, including:
- Easily digestible carbohydrates that serve as a great energy source for active dogs.
- Linoleic acid: This essential fatty acid is not produced by dogs’ bodies. Supplementing through corn is a great way to help your dog maintain healthy skin, a glossy coat, and a strong immune system.
- Rich in fiber that supports digestive health and proper gut motility.
While corn kernels are safe, corn on the cob is absolutely not. Corn on the cob should never be fed to dogs because the cob is completely indigestible. If your dog eats a corn cob, it can become lodged in the stomach or intestines, causing severe damage to the gastric lining or even requiring emergency surgery.
If you want to give your dog corn, steamed kernels are best. Always check the corn first to make sure it does not have extra seasoning or high salt content. And remember to leave off the butter for your dog’s portion.
11. Celery
Like many of the other safe vegetables discussed, celery is notably low in calories, fat, and cholesterol. This makes it another excellent veggie treat for dogs on a diet or those needing to maintain a healthy weight.
Celery should be thoroughly washed and fed raw. Dogs who love a good crunch are often fans of celery. However, it is not as flavorful as some of the other vegetables, so don’t be surprised if your dog isn’t particularly interested in eating it.
12. Cooked White Potatoes
Cooked white potatoes are another safe vegetable for dogs. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and magnesium—all of which are important for your dog’s immune system and nervous system. However, the operative word here is “cooked.”
Raw potatoes are toxic for dogs. They are part of the nightshade family and contain a substance called solanine. Cooking thoroughly removes the solanine from the potato. Consuming raw potatoes, due to the solanine content, can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and possible bloating in dogs.
13. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a super vegetable because it contains a wide variety of healthy nutrients, including:
- Fiber
- Vitamin K
- Antioxidants
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Beta-carotene
- Minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium
Cauliflower can be fed cooked or raw, and should always be cut into small, bite-sized florets to minimize choking risks.
While cauliflower can be a great addition to your dog’s diet, it is important not to feed too much of it. Because cauliflower is so fibrous, dogs may choke on larger pieces or develop an upset stomach and gas if consumed in excess.
14. Beets
Beets are one of the most antioxidant-rich vegetables you can offer your dog. With an impressive 88% water content, beets also contain folate, fiber, vitamin C, and essential minerals. Therefore, beets are very beneficial for your dog’s skin and coat health.
Don’t panic if you observe small amounts of red or pink coloring in your dog’s urine after he or she eats beets. They contain a natural pigment that can harmlessly affect the color of urine. However, if your dog’s urine remains discolored 48 hours after discontinuing feeding beets, or if you notice any other concerning symptoms, consult your veterinarian to rule out other issues.
What Vegetables Should Dogs Not Eat?
Now that we have discussed vegetables that are safe and tasty for your dog, let’s briefly talk about some vegetables that should never be fed to your dog due to their toxic properties or potential hazards. For a more comprehensive overview of dangerous human foods, consider exploring what food dogs can’t have.
1. Onions, Garlic, Chives, and Shallots
Vegetables in the Allium family are highly toxic for dogs as they can damage red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. Vegetables in this family include:
- Onions
- Garlic
- Chives
- Shallots
If your dog consumes any amount of these foods, please consult your veterinarian immediately. Your dog may need emergency treatment, as otherwise, he or she could become severely anemic. Signs of illness can sometimes take days to present, so it’s crucial to call your vet right away if you suspect your dog may have eaten one of these vegetables.
2. Mushrooms
While some types of mushrooms might be safer than others, it is generally a good idea to avoid giving any mushrooms to your dog. Some varieties can cause your dog to experience mild symptoms like diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Other mushrooms are even more toxic, resulting in severe, life-threatening illness.
For example, certain mushrooms found in your yard or along a hiking trail can cause liver failure, kidney disease, profound lethargy, seizures, and even death. With many different species appearing similarly, distinguishing safe from dangerous wild mushrooms is nearly impossible for the untrained eye. To be completely safe, I strongly recommend avoiding feeding any mushrooms to your dog altogether.
3. Unripe Tomatoes
Just like potatoes, tomatoes are part of the nightshade family. The nightshade toxins are most prominent in unripe (green) tomatoes and the tomato plant itself (leaves and stems). Therefore, it is critically important that your dog never consume tomato plant leaves/stems or green, unripe tomatoes.
If your dog does manage to get a hold of a tomato plant or unripe tomatoes, I recommend consulting your veterinarian immediately. Clinical signs that you might observe in your dog include:
- Gastrointestinal upset (such as vomiting and diarrhea)
- Dilated (enlarged) pupils
- Depression or lethargy
- Decreased energy and weakness
- Increased heart rate
Ripe red tomatoes, however, are generally considered safe in small quantities, as the solanine concentration is much lower.
4. Any Vegetables That Pose a Choking Hazard
Throughout this article, I’ve emphasized the importance of cutting vegetables into bite-sized pieces and properly cooking them to avoid a choking hazard. This is incredibly important because choking can quickly become a serious emergency. Fibrous vegetables that are hard to chew, like raw cauliflower and celery, call for extra caution. Always supervise your dog closely when introducing new or crunchy vegetables.
Infographic detailing healthy vegetables dogs can eat, highlighting benefits of green beans and carrots for canine health
How Do I Prepare Vegetables for Dogs to Eat?
Steamed, boiled, raw, pureed, or frozen—when it comes to preparing vegetables for dogs, there are many options. The best preparation method often varies based on the type of vegetable, the way it is being fed, and, importantly, your dog’s individual preference.
If your dog turns up his or her nose at vegetables initially, I recommend switching up how they are prepared. Personally, my dog and I won’t eat raw broccoli. But, we both love steamed broccoli. The same may be true for you and your dog, too!
The following are some general ideas on how to prepare vegetables as a snack for your dog. However, some veggies do have “best practices” for preparation, as mentioned in their specific sections above.
Raw
Raw vegetables make perfect treats. They are easy to grab, and you can take them with you anywhere. Baby carrots are a favorite for my dog!
When feeding raw veggies, properly cleaning them is extremely important. Cooked vegetables are exposed to higher temperatures that kill bacteria and microbes. Obviously, raw vegetables are not.
The only way to effectively remove bacteria, dirt, and potential pesticides is by thoroughly washing and scrubbing the vegetables before giving them to your dog.
Steamed
Steaming is a great way to prepare vegetables for your dog. I particularly love this option because it is fast, easy, and helps preserve many of the essential nutrients.
Here are a few tips for steaming:
- Wash the vegetables thoroughly before steaming to remove dirt and contaminants.
- Chop the vegetables into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking time and prevent choking.
- Once steamed, be sure to allow the veggies to cool completely so your dog does not burn his or her mouth.
Steamed vegetables are cooked just long enough to heat them up and make them slightly tender. While being somewhat softer than raw, the vegetables still retain a pleasant crisp texture that many dogs enjoy.
Boiled
If your dog is missing teeth, has a sensitive mouth, or finds crunchier textures challenging, boiled vegetables might be a good option. Boiled vegetables are significantly softer than raw or steamed vegetables, making them much easier to chew and swallow. However, because boiling involves higher temperatures and submerging the vegetables in water, some water-soluble nutrients may leach out, making them somewhat less nutrient-dense compared to steaming. All of the same tips on preparing vegetables (listed above for steaming) apply to boiling vegetables.
Raw vegetables, like carrots, can be given as treat rewards for your dog.
Other Ways to Prepare Vegetables for Dogs
Maybe your dog isn’t a fan of the traditional preparations, and you want to get creative with your cooking. Here are some of my favorite tricks for preparing vegetables for my senior dog, and for dogs in general:
- Pureed—Use a blender to mash thoroughly washed and cooked vegetables. Some dogs prefer the smooth, applesauce-like texture of pureed vegetables, which can be particularly good for older dogs or those with dental issues. Pureed vegetables can also be easily mixed in with regular dog food to add a nutritional boost.
- Frozen—Frozen vegetables are a fantastic and refreshing summer treat! Most fresh vegetables should be washed thoroughly and then cooked (steamed or boiled) prior to freezing to ensure safety and digestibility. Small frozen pieces can also provide a soothing effect for puppies who are teething.
With Your List of Safe Vegetables, You Can “Chews” Wisely
Even if your senior dog enjoys a high-quality commercial diet, incorporating certain vegetables offers numerous health advantages that make them a beneficial (and tasty) supplemental treat. Keep in mind that these vegetables are not intended to provide a fully balanced diet for your dog, and they should never be his or her sole food group! They are meant to be healthy additions, typically making up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
Try out a variety of vegetables from this safe list to learn which ones your dog loves the most. And remember, whenever you’re trying a new dog-safe vegetable, always offer a very limited amount at first to observe for any adverse reactions. If you’re not sure whether a particular vegetable is safe given your dog’s background, health history, or if you’re concerned about what should French Bulldogs not eat specifically, always ask your veterinarian for personalized advice and guidance. Knowing what meat you shouldn’t feed your dog is also important for a balanced approach to their diet.
Does Your Dog Love Veggies? Which Ones?
Share in the comments below—and let us know your quick preparation tips! We’d love to hear!
