What vegetables can dogs eat? 10 Healthy Treats For Your Best Friend

Vegetables are edible plant parts that typically encompass a wide variety of plant-based foods derived from different parts of plants, such as roots, stems, leaves, flowers, or fruits. These foods are an integral part of human and animal diets, providing essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre.

Vegetables come in various shapes, sizes, colours, and flavours, and they are often consumed either raw or cooked as a crucial component of balanced diets for both humans and, in some cases, their pets, including dogs.

There are many popular vegetables that are known to be safe for dogs when prepared correctly and fed in moderation.

Table of Contents

• Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
• Can Dogs Eat Celery?
• Can Dogs Eat Carrots?
• Can Dogs Eat Potatoes?
• Can Dogs Eat Peas?
• Can Dogs Eat Peppers?
• Can Dogs Eat Cauliflower?
• Can Dogs Eat Olives?
• Can Dogs Eat Parsnips?
• Can Dogs Eat Green Beans?
• Can Dogs Eat Brussel Sprouts?

Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?

Yes, dogs can eat broccoli. Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and fibre.

Key Benefits of Feeding Broccoli to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Broccoli is packed with nutrients, including vitamins C and K, which support immune function and bone health. It also contains vitamin A, which is essential for good vision, and various B vitamins important for overall health.
• Fibre: Broccoli is an excellent source of dietary fibre. Fibre aids in digestion, helps regulate bowel movements, and can be particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues.
• Minerals: Broccoli contains minerals like calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, which are vital for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and overall bodily functions.
• Low in Calories: Broccoli is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy treat option for dogs that need to maintain or lose weight.
• Dental Health: The natural crunchiness of broccoli can help clean your dog's teeth as they chew, potentially contributing to better dental health.

Guidelines for Feeding Broccoli to Dogs:

• Moderation: While broccoli is nutritious, it should be fed in moderation. Too much broccoli can lead to digestive upset, including gas and diarrhoea.
• Preparation: Always serve broccoli cooked to make it easier for your dog to digest. Raw broccoli can be tough to chew and may be harder on your dog's stomach. Steam or boil it until it's tender but not mushy.
• Portion Control: Offer broccoli as a treat or as part of their regular meal, but keep the portion size small. Typically, a few small florets or a tablespoon or two of cooked broccoli is sufficient for most dogs.
• Stems and Florets: Both the stems and florets of broccoli are safe for dogs to eat. However, ensure that the stems are finely chopped or cooked to make them more digestible.
• Avoid Seasonings: Never add seasonings, butter, or oils to the broccoli when preparing it for your dog. Plain, cooked broccoli is the best choice.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Broccoli can be found in some commercial dog foods, both dry kibble and wet varieties, as an ingredient. Be sure to check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging if you're concerned about your dog's broccoli intake.

Broccoli is a nutritious addition to your dog's diet when offered in moderation and prepared appropriately. It offers numerous health benefits, including essential vitamins, minerals, fibre, and dental health support. Just remember to keep the portions small, avoid seasonings, and ensure it's cooked to make it easier for your dog to digest.

Can Dogs Eat Celery?

Yes, dogs can eat celery. Celery is a crunchy, low-calorie vegetable that offers several nutritional benefits for dogs.

Key Benefits of Feeding Celery to Dogs:

• Low in Calories: Celery is an excellent choice for dogs that need to watch their weight because it is low in calories while being high in fibre, which can help them feel full.
• Fibre: Celery is rich in dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and can help regulate bowel movements. It's particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues.
• Nutrition: While celery is not as nutrient-dense as some other vegetables, it still contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and folate. These nutrients contribute to overall health.
• Hydration: Celery has a high water content, which can help keep your dog hydrated, especially on hot days.
• Dental Health: The natural crunchiness of celery can help clean your dog's teeth as they chew, promoting better dental health and reducing plaque buildup.

Guidelines for Feeding Celery to Dogs:

• Moderation: Celery should be fed in moderation. While it's a healthy snack, excessive amounts can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhoea.
• Preparation: Always serve celery in bite-sized pieces or thin slices. This makes it easier for your dog to chew and digest. You can offer it raw or lightly steamed or boiled to enhance digestibility.
• Portion Control: Typically, a few small pieces of celery are sufficient for most dogs. The exact amount depends on your dog's size and individual tolerance.
• Avoid Seasonings: Do not add salt, seasonings, peanut butter, or other toppings to celery when serving it to your dog. Plain celery is the best choice.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Celery is not commonly used as an ingredient in commercial dog foods, but some dog food brands may include it in certain formulations. Always check the ingredient list on the packaging if you're curious about whether your dog's food contains celery.

Celery is a healthy and weight-friendly addition to your dog's diet when offered in moderation and prepared properly. Its low-calorie, high-fibre nature makes it a valuable snack option, and its crunchiness can benefit dental health. Remember to keep the portions small, avoid seasonings, and ensure it's cut into easily manageable pieces for your dog.

Can Dogs Eat Carrots?

Yes, dogs can eat carrots. Carrots are a popular vegetable that offers several health benefits for dogs. When introduced correctly, carrots can be a valuable part of your dogs meals or snacks.

Key Benefits of Feeding Carrots to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Carrots are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, and fibre. These nutrients contribute to overall health, immune function, and proper growth.
• Fibre: Carrots are rich in dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and helps regulate bowel movements. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues.
• Low in Calories: Carrots are low in calories, making them a healthy option for dogs that need to watch their weight. They can serve as a satisfying and low-calorie treat.
• Dental Health: The natural crunchiness of carrots can help clean your dog's teeth as they chew, promoting better dental health and reducing plaque buildup.
• Hydration: Carrots have a high water content, which can contribute to your dog's hydration, especially in hot weather.

Guidelines for Feeding Carrots to Dogs:

• Moderation: Carrots should be fed in moderation. While they are healthy, excessive amounts can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhoea.
• Preparation: Carrots can be served to dogs in various ways. They can be offered raw as carrot sticks or slices, or you can steam or boil them until they are tender to make them easier for your dog to chew and digest. Avoid adding seasonings, salt, or butter.
• Portion Control: The portion size depends on your dog's size and individual tolerance. Typically, a few small carrot pieces or a tablespoon of cooked carrots is sufficient for most dogs.
• Avoid Choking Hazards: Always cut carrots into manageable pieces to reduce the risk of choking, especially for smaller dogs.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Carrots are not commonly used as a primary ingredient in commercial dog foods, but some dog food brands may include them in certain formulations. Check the ingredient list on the packaging if you're curious about whether your dog's food contains carrots.

Carrots are a nutritious and health-conscious addition to your dog's diet when served in moderation and prepared appropriately. Their nutritional value, low calorie content, and dental benefits make them a favourable choice. Remember to keep portions small, avoid seasonings, and ensure carrots are cut into manageable pieces.

Can Dogs Eat Potatoes?

Yes, dogs can eat potatoes, but there are important considerations regarding preparation and serving. Potatoes are a starchy vegetable that can provide some nutritional benefits for dogs when included in their diet. However, there are also potential risks associated with certain forms of potatoes and preparation methods.

Key Benefits of Feeding Potatoes to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Potatoes contain essential nutrients such as vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fibre. These nutrients can support your dog's overall health and well-being.
• Energy Source: Potatoes are a source of carbohydrates, which can provide dogs with a readily available energy source.
• Fibre: The fibre content in potatoes can aid in digestion and help regulate bowel movements.
• Minerals: Potatoes contain minerals like potassium, which is important for muscle and nerve function.

Guidelines for Feeding Potatoes to Dogs:

• Cooked Potatoes: It's crucial to serve potatoes to dogs in a cooked form. Raw potatoes and certain parts of the potato plant, such as green potato skin or potato sprouts, contain solanine, a toxic substance that can be harmful to dogs. Cooking potatoes breaks down solanine, making them safe for consumption.
• Limit Starchy Varieties: While plain, cooked potatoes can be included in your dog's diet, it's essential to limit starchy potato varieties like russet potatoes. Excessive starch consumption can contribute to weight gain and digestive issues.
• Moderation: Potatoes should be fed in moderation, as they are calorie-dense. Small portions, such as a few spoonfuls, are typically sufficient for most dogs.
• Avoid Seasonings and Additives: Do not add salt, seasonings, butter, or other toppings to potatoes when serving them to your dog. Plain, cooked potatoes are the best choice.
• Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: To prevent choking hazards, cut potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces, especially for smaller dogs.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Potatoes are commonly used in commercial dog foods, both in dry kibble and wet varieties, as a source of carbohydrates. Always check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging to see if potatoes are included.

Cooked potatoes can be included in your dog's diet in moderation, providing they are prepared and served correctly. They offer nutritional benefits, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, it's essential to avoid feeding raw potatoes and limit starchy varieties while keeping the portions small.

Can Dogs Eat Peas?

Yes, dogs can eat peas. Peas are a type of legume and are often used as a vegetable in various dishes.

Key Benefits of Feeding Peas to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Peas are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like potassium and iron. These nutrients can support your dog's overall health.
• Fibre: Peas are rich in dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and can help regulate bowel movements. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues.
• Protein: Peas contain a moderate amount of plant-based protein, which can contribute to your dog's daily protein intake.
• Low in Calories: Peas are low in calories, making them a healthy treat option for dogs that need to maintain or lose weight.
• Antioxidants: Peas contain antioxidants, such as flavonoids, that can help neutralise harmful free radicals in your dog's body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Guidelines for Feeding Peas to Dogs:

• Cooked Peas: It's best to serve peas to dogs in a cooked form. While some dogs can digest raw peas without issue, cooking them makes them easier to digest and reduces the risk of digestive upset.
• Moderation: Peas should be fed in moderation. While they are a healthy snack, excessive amounts can lead to digestive upset, including gas and diarrhoea.
• Portion Control: Typically, a few spoonfuls of cooked peas are sufficient for most dogs. Adjust the portion size based on your dog's size and individual tolerance.
• Avoid Seasonings: Do not add salt, seasonings, butter, or other toppings to peas when serving them to your dog. Plain, cooked peas are the best choice.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Peas are commonly used in commercial dog foods, both in dry kibble and wet varieties, as a source of plant-based protein and fiber. Check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging to see if peas are included.

Cooked peas are a nutritious and low-calorie addition to your dog's diet when served in moderation and prepared appropriately. They offer various health benefits, including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. However, it's essential to avoid seasonings and limit the portion size to prevent digestive issues.

Can Dogs Eat Peppers?

Yes, dogs can eat peppers, but there are some important considerations regarding the type of pepper and the way they are prepared. Peppers are a group of vegetables that include various types, such as bell peppers, sweet peppers, and hot peppers.

Key Benefits of Feeding Peppers to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Peppers, particularly bell peppers, are a source of essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, which support immune function and overall health.
• Fibre: Peppers are a good source of dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and can help regulate bowel movements.
• Low in Calories: Bell peppers, in particular, are low in calories, making them a healthy treat option for dogs that need to maintain or lose weight.

Guidelines for Feeding Peppers to Dogs:

• Type of Pepper: Bell peppers are the safest option for dogs. They are mild and generally well-tolerated. Hot peppers, on the other hand, can be irritating to a dog's digestive system due to their spicy compounds and should be avoided.
• Preparation: Peppers should be served in a cooked or raw form. Remove the seeds and the white pith inside, as these parts can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset.
• Moderation: Peppers should be fed in moderation. While they are a healthy snack, excessive amounts can lead to digestive upset, including gas and diarrhoea.
• Portion Control: Typically, a small amount of bell pepper, such as a few small slices or pieces, is sufficient for most dogs. Adjust the portion size based on your dog's size and individual tolerance.
• Avoid Seasonings: Do not add salt, seasonings, or spices to peppers when serving them to your dog. Plain, cooked or raw bell peppers are the best choice.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Peppers are not commonly used as a primary ingredient in commercial dog foods. However, some dog food brands may include small amounts of vegetables like bell peppers in certain formulations. Check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging to see if peppers are included.

Bell peppers are a nutritious and low-calorie addition to your dog's diet when served in moderation and prepared appropriately. They offer various health benefits, including vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Always choose mild bell peppers and avoid hot peppers. Be cautious with portion sizes and seasonings 

Can Dogs Eat Cauliflower?

Yes, dogs can eat cauliflower. Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable that offers several nutritional benefits for dogs.

Key Benefits of Feeding Cauliflower to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Cauliflower is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and dietary fibre. These nutrients support your dog's overall health, immune function, and digestion.
• Fibre: The fibre in cauliflower can aid in digestion and help regulate bowel movements, making it particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues.
• Low in Calories: Cauliflower is low in calories, making it a healthy treat option for dogs that need to maintain or lose weight.
• Teeth Health: The natural crunchiness of cauliflower can help clean your dog's teeth as they chew, promoting better dental health and reducing plaque buildup.
• Minerals: Cauliflower contains minerals like potassium and manganese, which are essential for various bodily functions.

Guidelines for Feeding Cauliflower to Dogs:

• Cooked Cauliflower: It's best to serve cauliflower to dogs in a cooked form. While some dogs can digest raw cauliflower without issue, cooking it makes it easier to digest and reduces the risk of digestive upset.
• Moderation: Cauliflower should be fed in moderation. While it's a healthy snack, excessive amounts can lead to digestive upset, including gas and diarrhoea.
• Portion Control: Typically, a few small pieces of cooked cauliflower or a tablespoon of cauliflower florets are sufficient for most dogs. Adjust the portion size based on your dog's size and individual tolerance.
• Avoid Seasonings: Do not add salt, seasonings, butter, or other toppings to cauliflower when serving it to your dog. Plain, cooked cauliflower is the best choice.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Cauliflower is not commonly used as a primary ingredient in commercial dog foods. However, some dog food brands may include small amounts of vegetables like cauliflower in certain formulations. Check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging to see if cauliflower is included.

Cooked cauliflower is a nutritious and low-calorie addition to your dog's diet when served in moderation and prepared appropriately. Its nutritional value, low calorie content, and dental benefits make it a favorable choice. Remember to keep portions small, avoid seasonings, and ensure cauliflower is cooked for easier digestion.

Can Dogs Eat Olives?

Yes, dogs can eat olives, but they should be given in moderation and with some considerations. Olives are a type of fruit commonly used in various culinary dishes. While olives can be safe for dogs, there are some factors to keep in mind.

Key Benefits of Feeding Olives to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Olives are a source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which can be beneficial for dogs in moderation. They also contain small amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, iron, and copper.
• Fibre: Olives contain dietary fibre, which can aid in digestion and help regulate bowel movements. This may be especially useful for dogs with digestive issues.

Guidelines for Feeding Olives to Dogs:

• Pitted Olives: Always feed your dog pitted olives. The pits or stones inside olives can be a choking hazard and may also contain substances that can be toxic.
• Limit Quantity: Olives should be given in small quantities as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your dog's diet. The high fat content means that too many olives can lead to gastrointestinal upset or weight gain.
• Plain Olives: Serve plain olives with no added seasonings or spices. Avoid olives that are marinated or seasoned with ingredients that may be harmful to dogs, such as garlic or onions.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Olives are not commonly used as an ingredient in commercial dog foods. They are not a primary dietary staple for dogs. If you want to ensure olives are safe for your dog, it's best to check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging to see if they are included. However, it's generally recommended to provide olives separately as a treat rather than relying on them as a regular food source.

Olives are safe for dogs when given in moderation and prepared correctly. While they contain some healthy fats and dietary fibre, it's essential to exercise caution, avoid pits, and limit the quantity due to their high fat content.

Can Dogs Eat Parsnips?

Yes, dogs can eat parsnips. Parsnips are a root vegetable that belongs to the carrot family and offer several nutritional benefits for dogs.

Key Benefits of Feeding Parsnips to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Parsnips are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. These nutrients contribute to your dog's overall health and well-being.
• Fibre: Parsnips are rich in dietary fibre, which aids in digestion, helps regulate bowel movements, and can be particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues.
• Low in Calories: Parsnips are relatively low in calories, making them a healthy treat option for dogs that need to watch their weight.

Guidelines for Feeding Parsnips to Dogs:

• Cooked Parsnips: It's best to serve parsnips to dogs in a cooked form. Raw parsnips can be tough to chew and digest, so cooking them until they are tender is recommended.
• Moderation: Parsnips should be fed in moderation. While they are a healthy snack, excessive amounts can lead to digestive upset, including gas and diarrhoea.
• Portion Control: Typically, a few small pieces of cooked parsnips or a tablespoon of parsnip cubes are sufficient for most dogs. Adjust the portion size based on your dog's size and individual tolerance.
• Avoid Seasonings: Do not add salt, seasonings, butter, or other toppings to parsnips when serving them to your dog. Plain, cooked parsnips are the best choice.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Parsnips are not commonly used as a primary ingredient in commercial dog foods. However, some dog food brands may include small amounts of vegetables like parsnips in certain formulations. Check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging to see if parsnips are included.

Cooked parsnips are a nutritious and low-calorie addition to your dog's diet when served in moderation and prepared appropriately. They offer various health benefits, including vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Remember to keep portions small, avoid seasonings, and ensure parsnips are cooked for easier digestion.

Can Dogs Eat Green Beans?

Yes, dogs can eat green beans. Green beans are a type of legume and offer several nutritional benefits for dogs.

Key Benefits of Feeding Green Beans to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Green beans are a good source of vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and various B vitamins. They also contain minerals such as potassium and manganese, contributing to your dog's overall health.
• Fibre: Green beans are rich in dietary fibre, which aids in digestion, helps regulate bowel movements, and can be particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues.
• Low in Calories: Green beans are low in calories, making them a healthy treat option for dogs that need to watch their weight.

Guidelines for Feeding Green Beans to Dogs:

• Preparation: It's best to serve green beans to dogs in a cooked or blanched form. Raw green beans can be tough to chew and may be harder to digest, while cooking or blanching makes them easier to consume.
• Moderation: Green beans should be fed in moderation. While they are a healthy snack, excessive amounts can lead to digestive upset, including gas and diarrhoea.
• Portion Control: Typically, a few green beans or a tablespoon of cooked green beans are sufficient for most dogs. Adjust the portion size based on your dog's size and individual tolerance.
• Avoid Seasonings: Do not add salt, seasonings, butter, or other toppings to green beans when serving them to your dog. Plain, cooked or blanched green beans are the best choice.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Green beans are not commonly used as a primary ingredient in commercial dog foods. However, some dog food brands may include them in certain formulations, especially in weight management or low-calorie options. Check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging to see if green beans are included.

Cooked or blanched green beans are a nutritious and low-calorie addition to your dog's diet when served in moderation and prepared appropriately. They offer various health benefits, including vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Remember to keep portions small, avoid seasonings, and ensure green beans are cooked or blanched for easier digestion.

Can Dogs Eat Brussel Sprouts?

Yes, dogs can eat Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are a type of cruciferous vegetable that offer several nutrients and health benefits for dogs.

Key Benefits of Feeding Brussels Sprouts to Dogs:

• Nutrition: Brussels sprouts are a good source of vitamins, including vitamin C and vitamin K. They also contain essential minerals such as potassium, folate, and manganese, contributing to your dog's overall health.
• Fibre: Brussels sprouts are rich in dietary fibre, which aids in digestion, helps regulate bowel movements, and can be beneficial for dogs with digestive issues.
• Antioxidants: These vegetables contain antioxidants like beta-carotene and flavonoids, which may help combat free radicals in your dog's body and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Guidelines for Feeding Brussels Sprouts to Dogs:

• Preparation: It's best to serve Brussels sprouts to dogs in a cooked or steamed form. Raw Brussels sprouts can be challenging to digest, and cooking them makes them easier to consume.
• Moderation: Brussels sprouts should be fed in moderation. While they are a healthy addition to your dog's diet, excessive consumption can lead to digestive upset, including gas and diarrhoea.
• Portion Control: Typically, a few cooked or steamed Brussels sprouts or a tablespoon of Brussels sprout halves are sufficient for most dogs. Adjust the portion size based on your dog's size and individual tolerance.
• Avoid Seasonings: Do not add salt, seasonings, butter, or other toppings to Brussels sprouts when serving them to your dog. Plain, cooked or steamed Brussels sprouts are the best choice.
• Dry or Wet Dog Food: Brussels sprouts are not commonly used as a primary ingredient in commercial dog foods. However, some dog food brands may include them in certain formulations, especially in recipes designed for weight management or low-calorie options. Check the ingredient list on the dog food packaging to see if Brussels sprouts are included.

Cooked or steamed Brussels sprouts are a nutritious addition to your dog's diet when served in moderation and prepared appropriately. They offer various health benefits, including vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants. Keep portions small, avoid seasonings, and ensure Brussels sprouts are cooked or steamed for easier digestion.

Safe Natural Treats for Dogs

Many owners like to offer safe natural dog treats that contain vegetables. These treats are specially crafted to appeal to your dog's taste buds while providing the nutritional advantages of vegetables.

When looking for natural treats, they should be free from grain, artificial flavourings and additives and be minimally processed.  Always read the ingredients carefully and don't be fooled by treats claiming to be 'natural' when many contain additives such as glycerin and salt.

Doggy Crisps

Doggy Crisps are delicious, thin slices of sweet potato that are drizzled in honey and peanut butter and then dehydrated for a long period of time. This process turns each slice into a chewy crisp, low in calories and a great healthy snack for dogs.

Veggie Crumble

Veggie Crumble is a great way of incorporating extra vegetables and fibre into a dogs diet. With seven different fruits and vegetables dried and blended into a crunchy topper, Veggie Crumble is a popular addition to many dog's dinners.

Biscuit Bakes

Biscuit Bakes are hand crafted using only grain free ingredients and lots of different fruits and vegetables to create four different flavoured biscuit treats. Perfect for owners looking for vegetable based treats for their dogs.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly & Reggie