One of the healthy veggies that we all rely on for our well-balanced diet is Brussels sprouts. They contain ample amounts of vitamins, minerals, and fibre that every human and dog needs. So you may consider its benefits and think, Can dogs have brussel sprouts?
Fortunately, Brussels sprouts can be a healthy addition to dogs’ diets as well. They don’t have any toxic ingredients that can impact a dog’s health. However, not eating them in the right way and quantity can have side effects.
Before you think of including this healthy veggie in your dog’s meal, learn about its safety concerns.
Table of Contents
Can Dogs Have Brussel Sprouts?
Brussels sprouts are a healthy addition to dogs’ diets. They are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, and vitamin K. You can already assume how many health benefits your dog can get from eating these sprouts. Just keep the quantity moderate and make sure he can cope with this veggie.
How Much Brussel Sprouts Can Dogs Have?
Before you decide how much Brussels sprouts you should give to your dog, you have to first introduce this food to him. Start by offering him a single tiny piece of sprout first. If he eats it comfortably, you may give him another tiny piece. If he doesn’t show any unwanted symptoms, it means your dog is fine with having Brussels sprouts.
Dogs that are extra-small breeds, shall not have more than 20 pounds of these sprouts. Again, small breeds can have 21 to 30 pounds of Brussels sprouts. Medium dogs can have about 50 pounds of them, and large dogs can have less than 90 pounds of them. For an extra large breed, you can even go with 120 pounds of brussel sprouts.
How To Feed Brussel Sprouts To Dogs?
Do not feed raw Brussels sprouts to dogs, as they are hard and can cause choking hazards for them. It would be best if you roasted or steamed the Brussels sprouts.
To prepare this treat, you have to first wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly. Then chop them into tiny pieces. Afterwards, steam the tiny pieces of Brussels sprouts unless they become soft. Now they are ready to serve your canine friend.
Another way to feed Brussels sprouts to dogs is by roasting them. The first few steps will be the same as the steaming process, i.e., washing and chopping. Then let them roast in the oven, and then let them out when they become crispy. Don’t add any seasonings, but a bit of olive oil.
Note: Offer Brussels sprouts to your dog only when they become cool.
Benefits Of Having Brussels Sprouts For Dogs
Brussels sprouts are not only tasty but also healthy treats for mammals. They are packed with many essential nutrients. Such as vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, folate, calcium, etc. Vitamin A will help with your dog’s vision and growth; vitamin B will keep his heart healthy; vitamin C will eliminate skin issues; and vitamin K will prevent blood clotting.
Since Brussels sprouts are lower in fat and calories, your dog can have good weight management from eating them. Also, its dietary fibre will help your canine friend have a good bowel movement.
Risks Of Having Brussels Sprouts For Dogs
Not feeding Brussels sprouts to dogs properly can lead to some side effects. Also, eating too many cooked Brussels sprouts can be as hazardous as eating raw Brussels sprouts.
Brussels sprouts contain isothiocyanate; ingesting it in a high quantity can cause peristalsis in your dog. Besides, its high fibre content can upset your dog’s gastrointestinal tract and even lead to vomiting.
Another reason for dogs to have side effects from eating Brussels sprouts is when they eat them raw. Usually, raw Brussels sprouts have bacteria and parasites that can cause weakness and sickness in your canine friend.
Again, consuming a whole piece of sprout can lead to choking hazards. So always keep the pieces small.
When Can Dogs Have Brussel Sprouts?
Some dogs and mammals can’t cope with plant-based foods. When you feed them fruits and vegetables, they will feel irritated and get rashes. If your dog also can’t withstand veggies, you shall not provide him with Brussels sprouts. Besides, the high five content in this vegetable can upset the stomach of dogs if they have a sensitive one. In that case, you also can’t serve them these sprouts.
In short, your dog can enjoy Brussels sprouts when he is non-allergic and not suffering from an upset stomach.
Frequently Asked Questions: Can Dogs Have Brussel Sprouts?
What happens if dogs eat too many Brussels sprouts?
When a dog eats too many Brussels sprouts, he will have watery diarrhoea and vomit constantly. Some dogs even get flatulence and are sick for a whole day.
How do I cook Brussels sprouts for dogs?
To cook Brussels sprouts for dogs, you have to either steam them or boil them. If you want to save time, you can also microwave them. Just make sure not to add any flavour or ingredients to this veggie.
Can dogs have raw Brussels sprouts?
Raw Brussels sprouts may not be safe for dogs as they have bacteria and cause choking hazards. However, a little piece of fresh, washed sprout can be somewhat safe for them.
Can dogs have brussel sprouts with broccoli?
Both broccoli and Brussels sprouts are safe for dogs in moderate quantities. You may add these veggies to your dog’s 10% meal occasionally.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, we are all clear that Brussels sprouts can serve many health benefits to dogs. Since they pose some health threats as well, you might still wonder, Can dogs have brussel sprouts? The answer is yes, if you cook it and don’t add any seasonings.
Dogs mostly stay curious, so they may avoid chewing the sprouts. So you must keep the pieces small, i.e., bite-sized. If your dog ever gives you any unwanted symptoms after eating them, stop feeding him.
