Cabbage is not something you would think of first when buying dog treats. However, cabbage is a healthy and delicious vegetable usually associated with healthy diets for fitness enthusiasts. But many of these people and others often wonder, can dogs eat cabbage? And we are here to find out! Let’s discuss everything about cabbages and their compatibility with dogs. Stick till the end to find out!
Is Cabbage Good For Dogs
Cabbage is an edible vegetable for dogs and can be healthy when reasonably provided to the dog in a balanced diet. It is low in calories and a good source of potassium and fiber, making it an ideal food for dogs. Cabbage contains vital nutrients that support canine health in many different aspects. The following are the specific nutritional benefits of cabbage for dogs:
- Vitamin K: It is a crucial vitamin as it allows healthy blood clotting in dogs and supports healthy bones
- Vitamin C: Known as a powerful immunity booster, vitamin C also helps reduce inflammation
- Dietary Fiber: Supports digestion and helps to control bowel movement.
- Antioxidants: Beta-carotene and flavonoids are some of the antioxidants found in cabbage which help support cellular health, reducing the effect of oxidative stress.
- Calcium: Supports healthy bones and helps in maintaining their health
- Potassium: Helps keep a healthy heartbeat and muscle health.
Cabbage can be an amazing addition to your dog’s diet. However, try to serve it light or cook it for easy digestion. Always feed in moderation and consult your vet before introducing new foods to your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Red Cabbage?
Yes, dogs can eat red cabbage, as it is perfectly safe for them. Red cabbage also contains more nutrients and minerals. However, you should only feed it to them in moderation. Dogs can eat all types of cabbage, so you don’t have to worry about can dogs eat cabbage.
How To Safely Feed Cabbage To Your Dogs
To feed cabbage to your dog without any issues, wash it thoroughly and remove any dirt. Cut off the hard stem and core of cabbage as they are hard for dogs to digest, and consuming them can lead to an upset stomach. Now cook it by either steaming or boiling. You can also fry them, but make sure to use dog-friendly oil only and do not add any seasonings, especially garlic and onions, as they are toxic to dogs. Once cooked, cut the cabbage into small bite-sized pieces for your dogs and serve them.
You can include cabbage with your dog’s daily food as a nutrition and flavour boost. But make sure not to overfeed, as an excessive quantity of cabbage can lead to gas problems or in worse cases, thiocyanate poisoning, which can disrupt thyroid function.
How Much Cabbage Can Dogs Eat?
How much cabbage a dog can eat varies depending on its size. To be fully careful, always consult your vet first. Here is a chart of how much cabbage you can safely feed to your dog relative to its size:
| Dog Size | Amount of Cabbage (Tablespoons) | Amount of Cabbage (Grams) |
| Small | 1-2 tablespoons per serving | ~15-30 grams |
| Medium | 2-4 tablespoons per serving | ~30-60 grams |
| Large | 4-6 tablespoons per serving | ~60-90 grams |
Always start slowly and introduce cabbage or any new food to your dog step-by-step slowly. Look for any discomfort or signs of vomiting, and if you catch any, stop feeding them the new treat.
Risks Of Feeding Cabbage To Dogs
Feeding cabbage to dogs can have some risks when overgiven. While generally safe, this vegetable can provide some nutritional benefits due to vitamins and fiber contents but might cause digestive issues like the production of gas, bloating or diarrhea problems— especially if the intake is abrupt or in excess since its high-fiber content can be very hard on the dog’s digestive system. Also, compounds found in it could work against proper thyroid functioning for dogs when fed in large amounts. Just to reduce these risks, make sure it’s served very moderately, begin with small portions and observe if your dog shows any negative reactions after that. It’s always nice to speak with a vet before introducing any new foods into the diet plan.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Cabbage?
While raw cabbage is not toxic for dogs, it can be hard on their stomachs and cause problems. It is recommended that you always cook cabbage before feeding it to your dog.
Conclusion
We hope this proved to be helpful. Cabbage is an amazing vegetable both for dogs and humans. So next time you are munching on some healthy green veggies and come across a piece of cabbage, dont hesitate to share it with your dog! But always remember to consult your vet first and feed them in moderation.
