Asparagus has a highly nutritious value but are they good for dogs? What you might not know is that dogs can't chew or digest raw asparagus and they can be dangerous to your pet's health.
However, it can be cooked to make it soft and then served to your dog. By the time you're done with this article, you'll learn everything there is to know about asparagus.
Asparagus is a popular veggie safe for human consumption. But before you offer that piece of asparagus to your dog, the question, can my dog eat asparagus must have crossed your mind.
While asparagus may not be toxic for your dog it is not recommended. You can choose to serve your pet other healthy veggies that will provide the essential nutrients instead.
So, if you’re hounding yourself with questions like, will asparagus hurt my dog, you can stop fretting as this article is here to help you with all your questions.
Experts have conflicting views on this. Some advice against feeding your pooch asparagus in one article and then, others suggest that it is safe to eat.
While asparagus is safe for dogs, you need to be careful and feed your dog in moderation. You should consult your vet before sharing any human food from your plate.
Raw asparagus should be completely avoided. It can be difficult for dogs to bite into, chew and digest. This could result in choking.
Word of Caution: The inedible part of the asparagus fern is toxic for your dog.
It would be wiser to switch to other veggies like carrots or cucumbers for a snack, as asparagus is not an ideal vegetable for your dog. But if you do, make sure to cook it soft and serve as bite-sized pieces.
Plain asparagus is safe for dogs to eat and is loaded with various health benefits. Using any oil, butter, garlic, onions or seasonings is a complete no-no as it could cause a tummy ache.
If you happen to grow your own asparagus at home, you will observe tiny red berries and flowers that grow around the stalks. Both can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
Also Read: Can My Dog Eat Bell Peppers?
Now that we answered the question, can my dog eat asparagus, let’s explore the benefits of asparagus for a dog.
Asparagus is high in vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin E, manganese, copper, antioxidants, folic acid, and potassium.
It is excellent at fighting cancer as the antioxidants help in saving cells from radicals and inflammation. It flushes out toxins from your dog’s blood, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
If you ask us, what vegetables are good for dogs? we would surely say that while asparagus is full of benefits and fiber, you need to ensure it’s cooked and served right. It just doesn’t feel like it’s worth the effort. There are safer and better alternatives out there.
Introducing new food to your dog’s diet is going to need some getting used to. If your dog has recently taken a liking to asparagus, make sure to go slow.
Too much asparagus may cause stomach upset, vomiting, smelly poop and urine, severe abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.
Boiled and steamed asparagus is better than sauteed asparagus. Sauteed veggies are usually full of salt, pepper, butter, oil and cheese. These ingredients will only make your dog fall sick.
So, does that mean asparagus can make dogs sick?
While the asparagus stalk can be consumed, it is the fern that can cause intestinal discomfort. So, if you happen to grow them in your garden, make sure to fence them and let your pooch know it is off-limits.
One last thing. Avoid feeding it if it’s not cooked. Raw asparagus can be a choking hazard.
Asparagus contains about 93% water, 3 gms of fiber, and 28 calories per cup. Both raw veggies and treats can make up to 10% of calories in your dog’s diet, ensuring a wholesome and balanced meal for your pooch.
This is why you need to ensure that asparagus is not more than 10% of vegetables in its diet.
Also Read: Can My Dog Eat Broccoli?
Dogs can’t have asparagus unless it’s been prepared properly. Even so, they can only consume it in limited quantities.
You can opt for other veggie options that can provide the nutrients your pooch deserves. However, if you insist on feeding it asparagus, you can give it as an occasional treat instead of making it a part of their diet.
Serve it cooked, in bite-sized nutritious portions, to avoid any unnecessary risks.
A digital marketing expert by profession, Andrews is a gifted writer and animal lover at heart. A self-confessed "pawrent", Andrews is well-versed in all things dogs. He uses his years of experience of raising puppies into show-quality dogs to help guide first-time pet parents. He believes in spreading the joy that comes with being a dog dad and advocates more families to adopt pets.
